Rössing plans life of mine extension beyond 2027
Chamwe Kaira
Rössing Uranium produced 2,600 metric tonnes of uranium oxide in 2024, down from 2,920 metric tonnes in 2023, according to the Sustainability and Performance report. The mine extracted 30,334,678 metric tonnes of material in 2024, compared to 16,683,199 metric tonnes the previous year. Ore milled decreased to 8,486,056 metric tonnes from 9,301,890 metric tonnes in 2023.
Revenue fell by 9% due to a 20% drop in sales volume following a month-long major maintenance shutdown, a delayed restart, water-related challenges, and technical issues at the processing plant. Despite these setbacks, Rössing Uranium made a net profit after tax of N$1.028 billion from normal operations in 2024, down from N$1.340 billion in 2023.
The board declared an interim dividend of 68 cents per share for 2024, totalling N$112 million, up from N$99.3 million in 2023. The company spent N$5.23 billion on goods and services, an increase from N$3.88 billion in 2023. Most spending occurred in the Erongo Region (48%) and the Khomas Region (42%), with 10% going to other regions, including the Northern Region, driven by a sulphuric acid supply deal with Sinomine Tsumeb Smelter (Pty) Ltd.
Several key projects planned for 2024 aim to support phase 4 of the Life of Mine Extension (LoME), which seeks to supply ore beyond 2027. The company completed critical infrastructure works, including relocating powerlines and other facilities.
Construction began in the first quarter of 2024 on an 18 MWp/15 MW AC photovoltaic solar power plant. This plant will supply electricity to the processing plant via a 6,800-metre overhead transmission line. Rössing said the development marks a key step toward green energy production and long-term sustainability.
Progress continued on the thickened tailings LoME project. A horizontal belt filter pilot plant was built and commissioned in the last quarter of 2024. It was integrated into the existing processing plant and will test methods to improve thickened tailings management for future operations.
Rössing said LoME projects will remain a strategic priority as the company works to extend the mine’s life beyond 2026.
