Spring Stone contracted a Japanese firm−MINDECO−to conduct rigorous sampling and analysis of the Massifs soil ecology for leachable REE. Three months after the issuance of the license, MINDECO commenced reconnaissance and sampling as per licensing TORs but came under sustained attacks from local residents for complacency and not putting in place safeguards to minimise socio-ecological impacts of their activities. Meanwhile, whereas vehemently opposed to similar ventures in the past, the World Bank funded Mulanje Conservation trust is in favour of current mining proposals.

In November 2012, 60 local leaders and a local Member of Parliament petitioned Spring Stone expressing discontent with exploration activities and demanding an immediate halt to these activities. Adverse socio-ecological impacts in the area were among cited grievances. This conflict has since intensified with a series of legal battles and local protests. Civil unrest is recently being threatened by locals following vacation of their earlier High court injunction and resumption of exploration work. Pressure is also mounting on MCT to leave the area for its failure to protect the environmental and socio-cultural interests in the area as traditionally has been the ethos underpinning its work.