Wozi Niobium Project Licence Secured: Kula Targets Maiden Drilling by December 2025

A Strategic Expansion into Critical Minerals

Kula Gold Limited (ASX, KGD) has taken a decisive step into the critical minerals arena with the formal grant of the Wozi Niobium/Tantalum Project exploration licence in Malawi. This marks a significant diversification beyond its established gold exploration activities, notably its flagship Mt Palmer Gold Project.

The Wozi Project, located approximately 225km north of Malawi’s capital Lilongwe, sits within the geologically prospective Mozambique Orogenic Belt and the East African Rift Valley System. The licence area covers around 5.52 square kilometres of igneous and metamorphic rock formations, known to host niobium and tantalum mineralisation from surface.

Encouraging Historical Data and Infrastructure Advantage

Historical exploration by Mantra Resources in 2007-2008, though not fully compliant with current JORC standards, revealed substantial niobium mineralisation through trench sampling. Notably, trenches returned wide intervals such as 145 metres at 0.55% Nb2O5 and 192 metres at 0.49% Nb2O5, indicating large-scale potential. These results underpin Kula’s confidence in advancing the project rapidly.

Logistically, the project benefits from excellent access, lying just 2km from the major M1 highway and within reach of the Nacala Rail Corridor, facilitating potential future transport of ore to export ports on the Indian Ocean. This infrastructure advantage could translate into lower development costs and enhanced project viability.

Next Steps, From Mapping to Drilling

Kula plans to initiate a comprehensive field program shortly, including detailed geological mapping, expanded soil and rock-chip sampling, and confirmation of historic trench results. The company aims to progress to a maiden drilling campaign in the December quarter of 2025, targeting the most prospective zones identified from surface sampling.

While the project is at an early stage with no prior drilling, Kula’s approach is methodical, leveraging historical data and modern exploration techniques to build a robust understanding of the deposit. Additional tenure acquisitions are also under consideration, signaling a commitment to expanding the project’s footprint.

Balancing Portfolio Priorities

Despite this new venture, Kula remains focused on advancing its Mt Palmer Gold Project, underscoring a balanced strategy between gold and critical minerals. The addition of the Wozi Niobium Project aligns with global trends emphasizing the strategic importance of niobium and tantalum in high-tech and clean energy applications.

Managing Director Ric Dawson highlighted the project’s potential as a “high impact, low-cost niobium opportunity” and expressed optimism about what the maiden drilling program could reveal for shareholders.