Orezone Gold Corporation Expands Production at Bomboré Mine
Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX: ORE, OTCQX: ORZCF) is excited to share essential updates regarding its Bomboré Gold Mine. The company plans to significantly enhance its production capacity with the ongoing hard rock expansion, which is anticipated to elevate annual gold output to more than 170,000 ounces. This marks a substantial increase of around 50% from current figures, with the first gold expected to be produced by late 2025.
Construction Progress and Site Developments
The site is witnessing significant advancements, with major groundworks completed and the plant-site area cleared. The preparations for receiving construction equipment, offices, and substantial plant components are now underway. Additionally, upgrades to the camp facilities are fully operational, primed to support construction supervision and teams.
Engineering and Procurement Efforts
Lycopodium Minerals Canada has been entrusted with the engineering and procurement facets of the project. Their selection stems from their reputable history in successfully designing and constructing multiple gold plants across West Africa. This includes the operational Phase I oxide plant at Bomboré, which has been surpassing its design expectations.
The procurement process has seen over 50% of essential packages acquired, including critical CIL tank platework and 95% of all necessary process equipment. A noteworthy component of this is the recent purchase of a 9MW, 26’ diameter SAG mill. This mill, slightly used but never installed, comes with a full supplier warranty. The acquisition is proving to be advantageous in both cost and scheduling, with the components set to be packaged for shipment ahead of schedule.
Advancements in Site Construction
The recent development includes assigning the concrete installation contract, with mobilization expected by mid-November—three months before the initial timeline. Bids for structural steel and general platework are being evaluated, with awards anticipated in November. Furthermore, the main contract for Structural, Mechanical, and Piping installations is expected to be awarded in the first quarter of 2025, continuing a trend of advancing timelines.
New Mining Fleet Introduction
A recent shipment of the hard rock fleet, which includes brand new trucks and excavators from the mining contractor, has successfully reached Burkina Faso. This timely arrival allows for early operator training, ensuring a smooth transition into hard rock mining. As construction continues, further deliveries of the hard rock fleet are projected over the next several months.
Explosion Safety and Logistics
The explosives magazine at the site is nearing completion, enabling Orezone to purchase and store bulk explosives directly for usage, a move that will significantly cut down costs associated with pre-mix batch deliveries. A dedicated team from AECI will be available to mix and supply necessary downhole explosives for efficient transition and hard rock blasting operations.
Leadership Insights
Patrick Downey, President & CEO, expressed his satisfaction regarding the swift progress achieved thus far in the expansion of the hard rock segment. He acknowledged the team's commitment to accelerating site operations and meeting crucial milestones, promising regular updates on this pivotal project.
Company Overview
Orezone Gold Corporation stands as a key player in the West African gold production landscape, focusing on the mining, development, and exploration of its hallmark Bomboré Gold Mine. This operation transitioned to commercial production in late 2022 and is now set on a phased journey towards developing its hard rock reserves, ultimately aiming for a significant boost in annual gold output.
Furthermore, Orezone is dedicated to social responsibility and sustainable practices, underpinned by a proficient team experienced in project development and management.
Contact Information
For further inquiries, stakeholders can reach out to:
Patrick Downey
President and Chief Executive Officer
Vanessa Pickering
Manager, Investor Relations
Tel: 1 778 945 8977 / Toll-Free: 1 888 673 0663
info@orezone.com
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the main focus of Orezone's latest expansion update?
The update focuses on the hard rock expansion of the Bomboré Gold Mine, aiming to significantly increase annual gold production.
2. Who is responsible for the engineering and procurement of the project?
Lycopodium Minerals Canada has been awarded the engineering and procurement contract for this project.
3. When is the first gold production expected from the expansion?
The first gold production is expected to commence in late 2025.
4. How much will the annual gold production increase after the expansion?
The expansion is projected to increase annual production to over 170,000 ounces, around a 50% increase from current levels.
5. What logistical improvements will the explosives magazine provide?
The explosives magazine will allow for the storage and direct purchase of bulk explosives, reducing reliance on costly pre-mix batch deliveries.
