SWAKOPMUND – Andrada Mining plans to construct a second tin-processing plant in Uis. 

The company announced on Friday that it secured a N$46.25 million funding facility to construct the new plant, which is expected to boost tin production without disrupting existing operations.

The Uis tin mine is a large open-pit mine in the western part of the Erongo region. 

The mine is owned by the London-based AfriTin Mining.

Uis represents one of the largest tin reserves in Namibia, having estimated reserves of 60 million tonnes of ore grading 0.13% tin.

Andrada’s CEO Anthony Viljoen said the investment underscores confidence in Namibia’s rich tin resources, particularly in the region. “We anticipate a surge in tin demand over the year, which, when combined with Andrada’s entrenched position in the global tin supply chain creates a unique competitive advantage for the company,” he stated. 

The additional plant will provide a modular pathway to scale up operations, while evaluating new pits and validating historical resources.

“Importantly, the new plant will operate independently, ensuring there is no disruption to current mining activities, or to the ongoing expansion to boost tantalum and lithium revenues at our primary plant,” Viljoen added.

Tin is primarily used in the electronics’ industry for soldering, joining metal components in devices like smartphones and computers. 

It is essential in packaging, particularly to produce tinplate used in food and beverage cans.

The company plans to use the funding facility to procure a 100-tonne-per-hour tin concentrate production plant. 

The plant will consist of a three-stage primary crushing and screening circuit, a jigging section, and shaking tables. 

The output is expected to match that of the existing processing plant.

In addition to increasing tin production, the expansion will allow Andrada to explore and initiate production from other high-grade ore bodies in the Erongo region. 

The company is currently in discussions with miners in the region for higher-grade tin ore supply.

Funding was secured from LCA Abelheim Limited as trustee of The Orange Trust, Andrada’s largest shareholder, which holds 15.81% of the company. 

Andrada will repay a total of N$48.1 million, ensuring operational flexibility while meeting debt obligations.

-edeklerk@nepc.com.na