AuKing Mining Limited, listed on the ASX as AKN, has made substantial advancements in its exploration activities at the Tundulu Rare Earth Project in southern Malawi. The company has recently commenced a large-scale diamond drilling phase, building on the success of earlier reverse circulation (RC) drilling. This ongoing exploration is crucial for understanding the project’s potential and paving the way for a maiden mineral resource estimate later this year.
The Tundulu project, located within the 91.5 km² exploration licence EL0731/24, is situated in southeastern Malawi. AuKing is in the process of seeking regulatory approval to transfer this licence from Tusker Minerals subsidiary Green Exploration. The project’s strategic location and promising geological features have positioned it as a key focus for the company’s exploration efforts.
Deep Drilling Reveals Extensive Carbonatite Geology
AuKing’s first diamond drill hole at Tundulu has exceeded initial expectations, reaching a depth of 510.62 meters. This significant extension was prompted by geological logging that identified multiple carbonatite intersections well beyond the initially planned 300-meter depth. The discovery of extensive carbonatite lithology at such depths has bolstered confidence in the project’s geological model, suggesting it is broader and deeper than initially anticipated.
End-of-hole logging indicates that the carbonatite geology remains open at depth, prompting plans for additional deep diamond drill holes. These ongoing efforts are focused on maximizing geological data around the Nathace Hill target area to support the potential maiden mineral resource estimate. The company aims to release this estimate before the end of 2026, subject to assay results and further exploration.
Sample Processing and Assay Results
AuKing has secured seven export permit approvals for samples from prior Tundulu RC drilling. These samples are either at Intertek’s Zambia preparation facility or currently in transit. The first two batches of Tundulu RC drilling samples, comprising 1,270 total samples, have reached Intertek’s laboratory in Perth. The company has requested priority processing for samples from the first four holes to expedite the assay program.
Managing Director Paul Williams acknowledged the delays in assay reporting but emphasized the company’s efforts to expedite the process. He noted that AuKing’s logistics process has been quicker than the general experience of other companies in the region. With the samples now at the Intertek facility in Perth, the company anticipates a timely turnaround of the much-anticipated first assay results.
Exploration Progress and Future Plans
On 31 July 2026, AuKing completed the RC component of its initial Tundulu drilling program, having drilled 4,300 meters across 31 holes. Detailed geological logging of all these RC drill holes has confirmed widespread carbonatite lithologies throughout the current drilling area. Notably, carbonatite material was identified in drill holes situated well away from the primary Nathace Hill target area, which has been the focus of previous exploration.
The company is planning further deep diamond holes around Nathace Hill, aiming to gather more comprehensive geological data. This data will be instrumental in refining the project’s geological model and supporting the development of a robust mineral resource estimate. AuKing remains committed to advancing the Tundulu project and unlocking its potential as a significant rare earth resource.
