Aterian (ATN.L), a small-cap focusing on Africa, has signed a definitive earn-in agreement with Rio Tinto (RIO, RIO.L) whereby the latter can earn a 75% stake in the HCK project in Rwanda for a total of US$7.5M in exploration expenditures. Aterian has identified 19 pegmatite zones on the 2,750 hectare project which could be prospective for lithium-caesium-tantalum mineralization. Rio Tinto also has the option to add Aterian’s two other Rwanda-based projects to the joint venture. During the first stage of the agreement, Rio will be required to spend US$3M over a two year period to earn an initial 51% stake which can ... (full story)