At Black Rock Mining (Black Rock or the Company), our flagship Mahenge Graphite Project (the Project or Mahenge), located in the Ulanga District of Tanzania is positioned as a critical supplier of low-carbon battery materials, contributing to the decarbonisation of transport and electricity sectors worldwide…

Black Rock is committed to operating in a responsible and sustainable manner, minimising any environmental impacts, optimising energy efficiency and using resources appropriately. We recognise the importance of appropriately managing the risks which derive from mining activities to ensure a high standard of outcomes for local communities and other stakeholders. Accordingly, our goal is to ensure that our activities not only comply with current local legislation but are also aligned with external international guidelines.

Black Rock understands the impact of land acquisition on local communities and the importance of addressing any adverse impacts from resettlement activities. The Company has undertaken a comprehensive public consultation with the key stakeholders including village and community leaders in planning resettlement activities and has provided a fulsome plan for the land requirements, compensation and housing provisions and public infrastructure for the new Idenke Settlement Area within the Mdindo Village. The Company has conducted Human Rights screening and resettlement activities are being undertaken in accordance with Tanzanian law and aligned with International Finance Corporation Environmental and Social Performance Standard (IFC PS), in particular IFC PS 5 on Land

We note that the referenced report repeatedly mentions the effects being suffered by the local population due to mining activities in Ulanga, including air and water pollution, cleared forests and contaminated rivers and wetlands. We note that no mining has commenced at the Mahenge Graphite Project as yet, nor has construction of the mine. While early construction works are underway, this is so far limited to minor improvements to the access roads around the site; and the completion of a corridor survey and tower spotting to prepare for the construction of the Ifakara to Mahenge 220kV transmission line.

Black Rock is not authorised to speak on behalf of Armadale Capital, the owner of the Mahenge Liandu Graphite Project, or Ecograf (ASX:EGR) the (84%) joint venture partner of the Tanzanian Government (16%) in the Epanko Mine.

A full statement from Black Rock is attached above.