Kenmare Studies Rare-Earth Byproduct at Mozambican Mine
Kenmare Resources is evaluating production of up to 4,000 tonnes per year of monazite concentrate at its Moma titanium mine in northern Mozambique. Monazite contains rare earths used in magnets for electric vehicles and wind turbines, a supply chain the US wants to make less dependent on China. A feasibility study may take up to a year, followed by about two years to first output, while investment costs and licensing remain unresolved.
Kenmare has operated the Moma titanium operation in northern Mozambique since 2007; it accounts for roughly 6% of global titanium feedstock. The proposed monazite would be a byproduct of the same mineral-sands ore, with a pre-feasibility review pointing to as much as 4,000 tonnes annually. The company is Irish-incorporated and trades in London and Dublin.
A full engineering and cost review could last a year, with first output about two years after a go-ahead, suggesting no production before roughly 2029. Kenmare calls the required capital low but has not disclosed a figure. Roads, heavy rains, radioactivity approvals and container availability are cited as hurdles.
If the plan advances, communities near Moma and the Nacala corridor could see added haulage, jobs and safety scrutiny around radioactive material, while Mozambique’s licensing and fiscal terms may shape public benefits. Global magnet makers and wind-turbine and EV supply chains may gain a small potential non-Chinese rare-earth source, but unresolved costs, logistics and a multi-year timeline mean near-term effects are likely limited.