Australia-based Lindian Resources has begun to mobilise a Komatsu owner-operator mining fleet at the Kangankunde rare earths project in Malawi.

The fleet comprises a dozer, excavators, wheel loaders, a grader, articulated dump trucks and a drill rig.

The first machines have reached the site and are being inspected and commissioned, supporting Lindian’s owner-operator mining approach as the project moves into ongoing construction and prepares for mining operations.

Lindian expects the fleet rollout to boost readiness ahead of first production, while improving control over safety, costs and operational performance.

Additional equipment deliveries are planned throughout the first quarter of 2026 (Q1 2026), alongside ongoing inspection, assembly, commissioning and operator training.

Processing plant development is also progressing. Obsideo, Lindian’s design and construct partner, is advancing detailed engineering, construction planning and site integration after the completion of early works.

Preparation of the stockpile area and plant footprint is around 95% finished and topsoil stripping is in progress. Layering and compaction are scheduled for completion by the end of February 2026 and are currently ahead of schedule.

Lindian executive director Zac Komur said: “The pace on site at Kangankunde continues to build across all work fronts, with solid progress across civil preparation, power, camp facilities and key support infrastructure. The first Komatsu fleet deliveries are an important step in establishing our owner-operator mining capability, with commissioning and operator training progressing in parallel to support operational readiness.

“In parallel, we are advancing the critical enablers, including workshops, fuel infrastructure, perimeter security and explosives facilities, to strengthen operating readiness and reduce execution risk.”

The project has exceeded 100,000 work hours without a lost time injury.

Power delivery is progressing, with procurement continuing and overhead powerline poles now being installed to support timely energisation and site-wide integration.

Camp construction is also advancing, delivering accommodation for execution teams and enabling the increase in site activities.

In December 2025, Lindian paid the final $10m (A$15.05m) tranche under a share sale agreement to acquire Rift Valley Resource Developments, which owns 100% of the Kangankunde project.