Mining-focused investment adviser Appian Capital Advisory has purchased an 89.96% stake in the Rosh Pinah zinc/lead mine in Namibia from base metals mining company Trevali Mining.

Located in the Kharas region, the underground zinc-lead mine has a 2,000 tonnes per day milling operation.

Appian is planning to restart the Rosh Pinah 2.0 mine expansion project, which will involve the construction of new processing facilities, including the addition of a paste fill and water treatment plant, and a portal and decline to extended deposits.

The project is expected to increase mill throughput to 1.3 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of ore from 0.7mtpa and increase zinc equivalent production to 170 million pounds per annum, on average.

Appian founder and CEO Michael W Scherb said: "This acquisition marks a significant milestone for Appian as we continue to develop our world-class portfolio of highly attractive zinc assets, a critical metal that will help facilitate the upcoming energy transition.

“We look forward to welcoming the 450 employees at Rosh Pinah to Appian as we utilise our extensive operational and project development expertise to support the existing management team with delivering the Rosh Pinah 2.0 expansion project.

"We extend our gratitude to the Namibian Government, our valued partners, and the local community for their trust and support."

Commissioned in 1969, the Rosh mine produces zinc and lead sulphide concentrates, as well as smaller amounts of copper, silver and gold.