Chamwe Kaira
Construction at the Etango Uranium Project is progressing steadily, with Bannerman Energy reporting strong advances across early works activities that remain on budget and on schedule.
The contractor workforce on site has grown to more than 370 people as construction activity increases. Bulk earthworks are now just over halfway complete, with work focused on the heap leach pads. Blasting, crushing and screening of drainage aggregate for the heap leach facility are also progressing as planned and meeting required standards.
Concrete works have entered a key phase. Bannerman has awarded contracts for Phase 1 and Phase 2A, and construction has started. Foundations have already been poured for the primary crusher and the stockpile tunnel.
A major milestone was reached with the first concrete pour at the primary crusher site. A total of 500 cubic metres of concrete was placed at an average rate of 40 cubic metres per hour. A further 1 200 cubic metre continuous pour for the stockpile tunnel base was completed without interruption.
Equipment deliveries are keeping pace with construction. The High-Pressure Grinding Rolls (HPGR) tertiary crusher has been manufactured, transported and delivered to the site, supporting readiness for the next phase of plant installation.
Design and procurement work is also advancing. The detailed model review for the dry plant has been completed, with civil and mechanical design now about 92% complete. Work on the wet plant is focused on validation test work, with detailed engineering about 23% complete.
Installation of long-term infrastructure is underway. Construction of the permanent water supply pipeline has started, with Phase 1 about 16% complete.
Bannerman Chief Executive Officer Gavin Chamberlain said progress reflects strong cooperation between the company and its partners. He said the site is “truly abuzz with activity”, with early works and long-lead items advancing safely and on schedule. He also said the company remains committed to awarding contracts to Namibian partners, whose performance has met world-class standards.
As early works continue and key milestones are reached, the Etango Uranium Project is moving toward the next stage of development.
