Malawi has permitted ASX-listed Lotus Resources’ (Lotus) local subsidiary, Lotus Africa, to mine and process uranium at its Kayelekera Mine north of that nation.

It said on May 5 that the approval by the Malawi Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (AERA) paves the way for a resumption of uranium mining at the property in the September 2025 quarter.

AERA’s review and assessment of Lotus’ submitted documentation, including the evaluation of the provisional mine closure plan, has been determined to be satisfactory.  AERA has indicated it will perform a verification inspection at Kayelekera once operations have started.

Lotus Managing Director Greg Bittar commented: “Securing AERA’s radiation licence authorisation was one of two remaining key regulatory milestones in advance of the restart of Kayelekera, which remains on track for Q3 2025. We are pleased that this authorisation has now been received. We look forward to working with AERA once operations recommence and ensuring an ongoing safe and secure operation for our onsite team, the local communities, and the environment.”

He added that following filing of its final environmental and social impact assessment to the Malawi Environment Protection Agency (MEPA) in early April 2025 and an onsite assessment by the authority later that month, Lotus will continue working with MEPA to ensure that the outstanding step is achieved.

Lotus holds 85% of Kayelekera, which used to be owned by fellow Australian firm Paladin Energy.