Lindian sharpens Malawian rare earths delivery with key hire
Sydney Morning Herald
by Doug BrightFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Lindian Resources has made a strategic move by appointing experienced professional Cliff Webster as technical manager for its Kangankunde rare earths project in Malawi. This hire is crucial as the company approaches the commissioning phase of stage one production while planning a significant expansion for stage two. Webster, with over 30 years of expertise in complex processing plants and commissioning roles at major operations, brings proven experience to ensure the project’s successful execution.
The appointment underscores Lindian’s focus on delivering stage one efficiently while laying the groundwork for future growth. Stage one aims to establish Kangankunde as a producer of premium monazite concentrate, with stage two targeting an additional 100,000 tonnes per annum of output. Webster will oversee technical governance, manage engineering interfaces and vendor relationships, and ensure operational readiness, including workforce training and maintenance systems.
With the rare earths market gaining geopolitical attention and long-term demand on the rise, Kangankunde is poised to become a key player in the industry. Lindian’s strategic partnership with Iluka Resources and its proactive approach to metallurgical testwork further solidify its position as a serious contender in the sector. Webster’s leadership will be instrumental in turning these ambitious plans into reality, ensuring reliable production and positioning Lindian for potential future expansion.
This development highlights the importance of expert execution in the rare earths sector, where technical risks can often derail projects. By bringing in a seasoned professional like Webster, Lindian demonstrates its commitment to overcoming challenges and delivering on its promises. As the global demand for rare earths continues to grow, successful projects like Kangankunde will play a vital role in shaping the industry’s future.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/25/2026