By: Mining.com

Globe Metals & Mining (ASX:GBE) has begun construction at its Kanyika Niobium Project in Malawi as it transitions from feasibility studies to project execution.

The company is conducting early works at the project, ahead of a Bankable Feasibility Study, which is due in March 2026, as well as a mining licence and other obligations.

This follows on from a binding pre-development collaboration agreement with Sinomine International Engineering to construct the Kitumba Copper Mine in Zambia.

Initial construction includes access-road upgrades, bulk earthworks, drainage and stormwater controls, fencing and site security, water infrastructure, and the establishment of a construction camp.

Globe Metals will reimburse Sinomine for direct costs incurred from this agreement, as well as a fixed monthly management fee of US$20,000 ($28,599) for project management and operational services. 

Globe Metals CEO Charles Altshuler says this milestone is a “clear transition” for the company to execute Kanyika, which is now a permitted and engineered project.

“The commencement of early works represents the culmination of years of technical research, permitting, and community engagement, transforming into physical progress on site, including access infrastructure, earthworks, and site establishment,” Altshuler says.

“The agreement with Sinomine allows us to proceed methodically on pre-development, validating construction, and operation cost inputs for the Bankable Feasibility Study and advancing downstream oxide qualification work, while retaining full ownership, control over the project.

“Importantly, the agreement is structured on a cost-reimbursable basis with a fixed management fee. This ensures capital discipline as we leverage Sinomine’s expertise and experience for the project’s progression toward full construction and first oxide production.”