Bulk shipments of titanium expected in fourth quarter this year

Last Updated 13 years ago by Kenya Engineer

Mining firm, Base Resources announced that production of titanium in Kwale would commence in Q3 2013 as scheduled and that first bulk shipments would occur in the fourth quarter of this year.The firm also announced that its works at the Kwale were 71 per cent complete .

The firm has made further significant progress in the development of the Kwale Project during the quarter which include closing the Makurumudzi Dam wall.

The development approach for the Kwale Project is for the project to be separated into six discrete contract
packages, as well as a number of smaller owner’s projects, with an integrated management team overseeing their execution and integration.

Delivery of the construction package is on the overall project critical path and is on schedule for production to start during Q3 2013.Civil, structural and mechanical erection works are ongoing and electrical installation has commenced. Construction and procurement progress is 66% complete.

Onshore construction works are well advanced with the storage shed construction nearing completion. The overhead power line construction and commissioning activities have started. Overall, the project is 97% complete and on schedule for completion in Q2 2013. Electrification of the substation is scheduled for May.

Construction of the main embankment to the final elevation of the Mukurumudzi Dam is scheduled for completion in May. The spillway construction is ongoing but functional. The concrete river diversion channel has been sealed and the dam is ready for storage, as planned, at the start of the wet season. Overall delivery is 76% complete.

As part of the Kwale Project acquisition, Base acquired an option to purchase three further exploration
projects ? Kilifi, Mambrui and Vipingo. On 28 December 2012, the then Kenyan Minister of Environment &
Mineral Resources published a gazette notice purporting to cancel the three exploration licenses covering
these projects.

“The Company has not as yet received formal notification from the Department of Mines & Geology or any explanation of the rationale for this action”, said the foreign firm in a statement.

Exploration activity during the quarter was focused on enhancing the Kwale North Dune resource estimate.
Drilling comprised 3,231 meters in 65 holes to test depth, grade, geo?metallurgical domains and assemblage.

“Analysis of the results is progressing and an updated resource estimate is scheduled for completion in the September quarter. The North Dune is not currently included in the Kwale Project”