Deep Yellow Limited is translating its conceptual Operational Readiness Plan (ORP) into a fully developed implementation framework.
The plan is now being fleshed out with detailed policies, procedures, and human resource structures aimed at ensuring the smooth commissioning and eventual operation of the Tumas uranium plant.
With a team boasting deep operational experience and long-standing roots in Namibia, Deep Yellow is positioning itself for a seamless transition from development to production.
De-risking for decision day
The work on operational readiness forms part of a broader strategy to de-risk the Tumas Project ahead of a Final Investment Decision (FID).
However, Deep Yellow has put the decision on hold, stating that FID will proceed only once uranium prices improve to support favourable project economics.
In the meantime, engineering, procurement, and early site works are all tracking on schedule, ensuring that the project will be ready to advance swiftly when market conditions allow.
Final mine scheduling, built on the results of a comprehensive grade control drilling campaign, is currently underway.
The findings from that program are being integrated to refine the Ore Reserve Estimate and optimise the tailings storage facility design.
Meanwhile, the re-costing of reagents and consumables is helping to fine-tune the project’s economic profile, while negotiations with prequalified mining contractors are entering their final stage.
Once contracts are signed, pre-production mining can begin in earnest.
Engineering and construction on track
Engineering progress continues at a pace, with Ausenco Services Pty Ltd leading detailed design work.
The plant’s 3D model has reached 44% completion, with momentum expected to accelerate as more vendor data becomes available.
Procurement is also well advanced, with 12 of the 43 major equipment packages awarded or approved for award, and certified vendor data secured for an additional 11 packages.
The process design, finalised in March 2025, has reached “approved for construction” status, allowing detailed work to proceed with minimal rework risk.
The plant layout, flow diagrams, and mechanical equipment specifications are now well defined, providing a stable foundation for execution.
Utilities, access, and infrastructure
Critical infrastructure is also falling into place. Contracts for water and power supply through NamWater and NamPower are nearing finalisation.
At the same time, associated infrastructure—such as borefields, pipelines, and access roads—has either been completed or is nearing completion.
The site’s initial construction offices and communications systems are already operational, enabling preparations for major works, including bulk earthworks and plant foundation activities scheduled for completion within the current half-year.
Environmental safeguards and water studies
Environmental and hydrogeological studies are reinforcing project sustainability. Monitoring bores, pump testing, and trench sampling have been conducted in the vicinity of sensitive ecological zones near Tumas 3.
Data collected is being used to design safeguards and water management strategies, including a raw water storage facility whose geological base was drilled and mapped in early July.
Financing nearing closure
On the financing side, Deep Yellow is working closely with Nedbank, its Mandated Lead Arranger.
The company has submitted its comprehensive Tumas 2025 DFS to an Independent Technical Expert to support due diligence and secure project funding.
Exploration adds depth
Beyond the main project, Deep Yellow continues exploration on its EPL3496 and EPL3497 licences.
A spectrometer survey identified four surface uranium anomalies on EPL3496, with follow-up work planned.
Meanwhile, drilling has commenced in the “S-Bend” of EPL 3497, with 300 RC holes planned to assess the potential for additional resources.
Next steps
As engineering milestones are ticked off and the site continues to take shape, Deep Yellow is preparing to shift gears.
While the company waits for more supportive uranium prices to justify an investment commitment, it is ensuring that the Tumas Project remains fully prepared to move forward when conditions align—bringing Namibia one step closer to hosting another producing uranium mine..
