Patriot Resources has identified a significant new copper mineralisation zone within its Sugarloaf licence in Zambia, revealing promising surface copper grades and a substantial strike length that could expand its resource base.
- New copper drill target discovered 850m from Sugarloaf historical pit
- Surface mapping reveals 800m by 240m syenite-chert copper mineralised body
- Portable XRF testing shows average 0.62% copper, peaking at 3.12% Cu
- Target remains open-ended along strike, indicating potential for expansion
- Plans underway for JORC resource estimation and toll treating agreement
Discovery Context and Geological Setting
Patriot Resources Limited has announced a new copper discovery within its existing Sugarloaf licence in Zambia’s Mumbwa District. The discovery centers on a syenite-chert geological unit exhibiting visible copper mineralisation, notably malachite, mapped over an 800-metre strike length and 240 metres wide. This new target lies approximately 850 metres from the historical Sugarloaf pit, a site previously mined on an artisanal scale, and is geologically analogous to the nearby Sinomine Kitumba Copper Deposit located 4.4 kilometres northwest.
Surface Sampling and Initial Assay Results
Patriot’s exploration team employed portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) analysis to conduct first-pass surface testing. The results revealed anomalous copper values averaging 0.62% across the mapped area, with peak readings reaching 3.12% copper. While pXRF is a semi-quantitative technique and less precise than laboratory assays, these findings provide compelling evidence of significant copper mineralisation warranting further investigation.
Exploration Significance and Next Steps
The discovery adds a promising new dimension to Patriot’s Sugarloaf licence, which covers roughly 4 square kilometres and includes the historical pit. Previous diamond drilling in the area was limited and not representative, underscoring the potential for targeted drilling to better define the mineralisation. Patriot plans to advance the project by generating a JORC-compliant resource estimate, conducting validation diamond drilling, and revisiting metallurgical test work to refine processing strategies.
Strategic Partnerships and Infrastructure Plans
In parallel with exploration, Patriot is negotiating a toll treating agreement with Sinomine Resources Group Co. Ltd to process Sugarloaf ore at the established Kitumba processing plant and smelter. This arrangement could streamline development timelines and reduce capital expenditure, positioning the project for efficient advancement toward mining.
Broader Implications for Copper Exploration in Zambia
The Sugarloaf discovery reinforces the Mumbwa District’s status as a fertile ground for copper exploration, particularly within the Neoproterozoic Lufilian Arc known for iron oxide copper gold (IOCG) deposits. Patriot’s methodical approach, combining geological mapping, pXRF screening, and planned drilling, exemplifies a modern exploration strategy aimed at unlocking value in underexplored regions.
Bottom Line?
Patriot’s new copper target at Sugarloaf sets the stage for a pivotal drilling campaign that could reshape its resource profile and regional standing.
Questions in the middle?
- How will laboratory assays compare to the initial pXRF copper readings?
- What scale and depth will the upcoming diamond drilling program target?
- How soon can the toll treating agreement with Sinomine Resources be finalised and operational?