(Ecofin Agency) - Miner Sierra Rutile completed construction of its new dry mine at Gangama and now plans to commence commercial production this quarter.

“The completion of the construction phase of Gangama represents a significant d’e-risking step as the project nears commercial production,” said chief executive, John Sisay.

The firm has also announced it has restarted rutile sales in the titanium market after its users were running down stocks. It received a first order which it sees as an encouraging sign for a growing demand for high-grade titanium feedstocks. Titanium is mostly used in sectors such as aviation, automotive, medical and technological. It is light, durable and unreactive.

Sierra Rutile Ltd holds in Sierra Leone, three exploration permits including the Jagbwema (109.2 km2), Gbangbaia (104.9 km2) and Semabu (189.2 km2) deposits.

Louis-Nino Kansoun