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Frequently Asked Questions

Clear answers on minerals, jobs, the environment, the project, and SONALEK Mining Company Ltd.

Click a question to reveal the answer. Information reflects SONALEK’s official policy and documents.

What minerals does SONALEK mine?

Titanium (ilmenite and rutile) is the main product. The site also contains lithium, coltan, gold, zinc, copper, amethyst and tourmaline.

How many jobs will the project create?

The target is 333 permanent jobs and 3,520 occasional jobs (diggers and managers) by 2030. From the first year, approximately 163 direct jobs will be created.

What environmental measures are in place?

SONALEK implements a comprehensive environmental plan: dust control by water spraying, progressive soil rehabilitation, protection of local wildlife, and prohibition of plant waste burning.

Is the project financially solid?

Yes. The NPV is $105.5 million and the Profitability Index is 6.42. The project is profitable from the second year of operations with capital repayment in approximately 16 months.

How are local populations compensated?

Compensation for rights holders is governed by the Ministerial Order of February 2025, guaranteeing fair, prompt compensation calculated on objective bases (640,000 to 1,280,000 BIF per are depending on use).

Who are SONALEK's shareholders?

ONATOUR (National Peat Office, representing the Burundian State) and FANALEK Company (private partner).

Where is the mining site located?

Ndora Zone, Bukinanyana Municipality, Cibitoke Province — across 64.7 km², accessible via National Road RN10.

What are SONALEK's two main current activities?

1. Industrial extraction of titanium and associated minerals (lithium, coltan, gold) in the Kibaya perimeter — main project under development. 2. Semi-precious stone extraction (amethyst) — already operational on the same site.

How can a young person work with SONALEK?

By applying for permanent positions or by creating a subcontracting SME in transport, maintenance, catering or ore sorting. Technical training programs are planned.

What are the end markets for titanium products?

Aerospace, medical (prosthetics, implants), energy (solar panels, desalination), paints and cosmetics, high-end sports equipment and advanced electronics.

Does SONALEK comply with Burundian law?

Yes. All operations are governed by the 2023 Mining Code, ministerial orders and public-private partnership agreements with the Burundian State.

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