Kiaka Gold Project’s Low Strip Ratio and Strong Grades Signal Operational Efficiency Risks
West African Resources reports robust results from its maiden grade control drilling at the Kiaka Gold Project, confirming extensive mineralisation and setting the stage for mining to commence in early 2025.
- Maiden grade control drilling completed on schedule for Kiaka Main Pit Stage 1
- Significant gold intercepts including 5m at 27.2 g/t and 11m at 8.7 g/t
- Gold mineralisation confirmed over 400m wide at surface
- Mining to start in Q1 2025 with first gold production expected in Q3 2025
- Low strip ratio of 0.8:1 supports efficient mining economics
Robust Drilling Results Reinforce Kiaka's Potential
West African Resources Limited (ASX: WAF) has delivered a compelling update on its Kiaka Gold Project in Burkina Faso, reporting strong results from its maiden grade control drilling program. The company has completed 2,636 reverse circulation holes totaling nearly 80,000 metres, with the latest batch of 1,317 holes revealing thick and consistent zones of gold mineralisation near surface.
Among the standout intercepts are a remarkable 5 metres grading 27.2 grams per tonne (g/t) gold and 11 metres at 8.7 g/t, underscoring the high-grade nature of the deposit. These results align closely with West African’s geological model, confirming gold mineralisation extends over a 400-metre width at surface, a significant scale for open pit mining.
On Track for Mining and Production Milestones
The grade control drilling program was executed on a tight 12.5m by 12.5m grid, targeting the top 20 metres of the Kiaka Main Pit Stage 1 deposit, which represents the first 12 months of planned ore production. The program was completed on budget and on schedule, setting the stage for mining operations to commence in late Q1 2025.
West African plans to begin waste stripping imminently, with first ore mining expected in early Q2 2025. The company anticipates first gold production by Q3 2025, positioning Kiaka to become a significant contributor to West African’s portfolio, with projected annual production exceeding 420,000 ounces.
Economic and Operational Highlights
One of the key operational advantages highlighted is the low strip ratio of 0.8:1 (waste to ore), which bodes well for mining efficiency and cost control. The large-scale Kiaka Main Pit is designed for a 20-year mine life, supported by a robust ore reserve of 4.8 million ounces as per the July 2024 feasibility update.
West African’s Executive Chairman Richard Hyde emphasized the quality and consistency of the drilling results, noting that the data reinforces confidence in the geological model and grade estimation. The company is now transitioning its drilling rigs to focus on subsequent stages of the Kiaka Main Pit to further delineate resources.
Technical Rigor and Future Outlook
The drilling and sampling protocols adhere to industry best practices, including rigorous QA/QC measures and detailed geological logging. Assays were conducted by SGS Laboratories in Ouagadougou, employing 50g fire assay with atomic absorption finish, ensuring reliable grade data.
Looking ahead, West African Resources is poised to advance Kiaka through construction and commissioning phases, with the maiden grade control drilling results providing a solid foundation for operational planning and investor confidence. The company’s focus will remain on maintaining schedule and budget discipline as it moves toward production.
Bottom Line?
With mining set to start imminently, West African Resources is gearing up to transform Kiaka’s promising geology into substantial gold output.
Questions in the middle?
- How will upcoming drilling at Kiaka Main Pit Stages 2 and 3 impact resource confidence and mine planning?
- What are the potential risks to the Q3 2025 production timeline given regional and operational factors?
- How might fluctuating gold prices affect the project's economic viability and royalty obligations?
