Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint a suitable service provider to perform an independent peer review of Competent Persons Reports (CPRs) and technical feasibility study reports for a phosphate mine and processing plant. The review aims to validate resource and reserve data, assess compliance with relevant standards (SAMREC, JORC, NI 43-101), and ensure the technical integrity of the reports to support project investment and development.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Conducting an independent peer review (IPR) of the resource and reserve reports for the phosphate project.
• Validating the basis of the CPRs, confirming resource and reserve estimates, life of mine, and processing flow sheet.
• Assessing metallurgical test work, mineral processing, and conversion from resources to reserves.
• Reviewing mine and process designs, including mining methods, pit optimization, mine scheduling, and fleet selection.
• Evaluating the scalability and operational aspects of the process flow design.
• Completing the review in two phases: Phase 1 desktop audit for compliance and accuracy; Phase 2 detailed review contingent on Phase 1 outcomes.
• Providing deliverables such as review reports, gap closure plans, and recommendations for project updates.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements include:

• Assessment of resource classification and compliance with SAMREC, JORC, NI 43-101 standards.
• Review of metallurgical test programs, concentrate quality, recovery, and resource-to-reserve conversion.
• Evaluation of reserve estimation, modifying factors, and classification.
• Analysis of mine design, including mining method (terrace open-pit), pit optimization, scheduling, and fleet selection.
• Review of process flow design, scalability, throughput, water management, tailings, and expansion plans.
• Preparation of a detailed technical review report with findings, gap closure plans, risks, and recommendations.
• Completion of work within specified project timelines, with clear distinction between phases.

Skills Requirements

The bidder must demonstrate:

• At least 5 years of relevant experience in independent peer reviews of mineral resources, reserves, and processing plant assessments.
• Proven expertise in resource and reserve classification, mineral processing, and project evaluation.
• Qualified key personnel, including:
• A geologist registered with the Geological Society of South Africa and SACNASP, with at least 5 years of experience.
• A processing/chemical/mining engineer registered with ECSA as a Professional Engineer/Technologist, with at least 5 years of relevant experience.
• Ability to develop a detailed methodology and approach for the review, including a project schedule (Gantt chart).
• Experience in assessing compliance with international standards (SAMREC, JORC, NI 43-101).
• Capability to deliver comprehensive reports, gap analysis, and recommendations within tight timelines.

Summary

The successful service provider must possess extensive technical expertise in mineral resource evaluation, project assessment, and mining engineering, supported by relevant qualifications and a proven track record. The bidder should demonstrate a clear understanding of the project scope, compliance standards, and deliverables, with a structured approach to executing the peer review process efficiently and thoroughly.