Midas Minerals has revealed widespread copper mineralisation extending over a 2km strike at its South Otavi Project in Namibia, setting the stage for imminent drilling campaigns. The discovery complements ongoing exploration and the pending acquisition of the larger Otavi Project, promising significant growth potential.
- Copper mineralisation confirmed over 2km strike at South Otavi
- Mineralisation remains open along strike with ongoing soil sampling
- Initial trench assays include 2m at 2.41% copper and 28.5g/t silver
- Preparations underway for first drilling at South Otavi and Otavi Projects
- Experienced local team and infrastructure established in Namibia
Exploration Breakthrough at South Otavi
Midas Minerals Limited (ASX, MM1) has announced a significant advance in its Namibian copper exploration program, identifying widespread copper mineralisation over a strike length exceeding 2 kilometres at its South Otavi Project. This discovery, achieved through trenching and detailed geological mapping, marks the first documented exploration activity in the area for up to half a century.
The mineralised corridor, hosted within the Askevold meta-volcanics of the Nosib Group, is at least 100 metres wide and remains open along strike, suggesting further potential beyond the currently defined zone. Assay results from trench samples have been encouraging, with highlights including an interval of 2 metres grading 2.41% copper and 28.5 grams per tonne silver, underscoring the prospectivity of the region.
Strategic Positioning and Geological Context
South Otavi lies within the Pan-African Damaran Orogen, a geological setting known for hosting significant copper and gold deposits. The project area straddles two major terranes separated by the Khorixas-Gasenirob Thrust Zone, with copper mineralisation spatially associated with the contact between the Nosib and Otavi Groups. This setting mirrors that of the nearby Deblin deposit, part of the larger Otavi Project, which Midas is in the process of acquiring.
The geological similarities to established high-grade deposits in the region, including the Tsumeb copper mine and the Otjikoto gold mine operated by B2Gold just 25 kilometres away, add further weight to the exploration upside. Midas’ work has also identified multiple separate copper and silver mineralised zones within the trenching corridor, highlighting the complex and rich mineralisation potential.
Advancing Towards Drilling and Resource Definition
With soil sampling ongoing and further trench sampling results pending, Midas is concurrently processing open-file geophysical data to refine and prioritise additional gold targets on the property. Preparations for the initial drilling program are well underway, with site and logistics arrangements progressing at both South Otavi and the larger Otavi Project.
The Otavi Project acquisition, covering approximately 1,776 square kilometres, is poised to significantly expand Midas’ footprint in Namibia. Historic drilling at Otavi has returned impressive intercepts, including 17.2 metres at 7.24% copper and 144.4 grams per tonne silver, underscoring the high-grade nature of mineralisation in the region. Midas has established an experienced in-country technical team, secured office and core storage facilities, and arranged long-term accommodation in the township of Otavi to support upcoming exploration activities.
Looking Ahead
The combination of newly identified copper mineralisation at South Otavi, ongoing exploration efforts, and the pending acquisition of the Otavi Project positions Midas Minerals at a pivotal point. The company’s methodical approach to exploration and infrastructure development reflects a commitment to unlocking value in one of Africa’s promising copper and gold provinces.
Bottom Line?
Midas Minerals’ discovery at South Otavi and strategic acquisition moves set the stage for a potentially transformative drilling campaign in Namibia’s copper belt.
Questions in the middle?
- Will upcoming drilling confirm continuity and economic viability of the South Otavi copper mineralisation?
- How will the completion of the Otavi Project acquisition influence Midas’ exploration timeline and resource potential?
- What impact will ongoing soil sampling and geophysical data have on identifying new gold targets within the project areas?