K.Hill Project Boosts Botswana’s Battery-Grade Manganese Ambitions

K.Hill Project Boosts Botswana’s Battery-Grade Manganese Ambitions

Nicholas Sparks 29-May-2026

Giyani’s K.Hill project in Botswana advances battery-grade manganese production, supporting Western supply diversification, sustainable sourcing, and future EV demand.

Giyani Metals Corp. has reported encouraging outcomes from the Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) for its K.Hill Battery-Grade Manganese Project in Botswana, strengthening its position as a future supplier of critical battery materials for Western markets. The study highlights strong project economics and emphasizes the project’s importance in supporting a more diversified global battery supply chain.

Released on May 28, 2026, the DFS outlines favorable financial and operational prospects for the fully owned K.Hill project in the Kanye Basin. The project is expected to generate substantial long-term revenue over its operational life while maintaining strong operating margins. The development plan includes a conventional open-pit mining operation alongside a hydrometallurgical processing facility designed to handle dry run-of-mine ore annually.

K.Hill is planned to produce high-purity manganese sulphate monohydrate (HPMSM) and high-purity manganese oxide (HPMO), both of which are essential raw materials for electric vehicle batteries and energy storage systems. The successful performance of a demonstration plant in Johannesburg played a key role in validating and finalizing the processing approach used in the DFS. Although estimated capital costs have increased compared to earlier assessments, the updated study incorporates proven and probable mineral reserves, improving confidence in the project’s long-term viability.

The project also carries strategic geopolitical importance. China currently dominates global manganese processing capacity, and K.Hill is expected to provide an alternative source of battery-grade manganese outside China. This could help Western manufacturers strengthen supply chain security and reduce reliance on a single dominant supplier. The project also aligns with broader international efforts to secure ethical, sustainable, and lower-carbon supplies of critical minerals. Botswana’s established reputation as a stable and mining-friendly jurisdiction further supports the project’s prospects.

Moving forward, Giyani plans to continue optimization efforts aimed at improving manganese recovery rates and overall operational efficiency. The company is also engaging with strategic partners and exploring opportunities within the battery materials sector to support financing and maximize shareholder value. Interest from international financial institutions has already been indicated. Construction activities are expected to begin in early 2027, followed by commissioning in late 2028 and commercial production ramp-up in 2029.

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