Resolute Mining has announced an initial mineral resource estimate of approximately 266,000 ounces of gold at its Bantaco Project near the Mako Gold Mine in Senegal, marking a significant step in extending the mine’s life.
- Initial inferred resource of 266koz gold at Bantaco South and West
- Resource based on shallow drilling, open along strike and depth
- Combined Bantaco and Tomboronkoto resources exceed 600koz gold
- Mining expected to start in second half of 2027 after approvals
- Further drilling planned to upgrade and expand resource
Context and Significance
Resolute Mining Limited has taken a decisive step in its West African growth strategy by announcing an initial Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for the Bantaco Project in Senegal. Situated just 20 kilometres east of the company’s established Mako Gold Mine, Bantaco is poised to become a key satellite deposit that could extend the operational life of Mako by an additional five to ten years.
The initial resource estimate totals approximately 266,000 ounces of gold at a 0.5 grams per tonne cut-off grade, split between Bantaco West (179,000 ounces) and Bantaco South (87,000 ounces). This estimate is based on extensive reverse circulation and diamond drilling completed since mid-2024, with mineralisation predominantly within the top 100 metres, making it amenable to open pit mining.
Geological and Operational Insights
The Bantaco deposits exhibit promising geological characteristics typical of Birimian orogenic gold systems, with mineralisation hosted in andesite lavas, volcaniclastics, and sedimentary sequences. The mineralised zones show good continuity along strike and remain open at depth, suggesting potential for resource expansion. Notably, the Bantaco West prospect extends over a 2-kilometre strike length with mineralisation thickness up to 40 metres, while Bantaco South covers a 350-metre strike with similar thickness.
Resolute’s exploration team has reported high-grade intersections, including intervals exceeding 10 grams per tonne gold, underscoring the quality of the deposit. The company plans to accelerate drilling in the second half of 2025 to both expand the resource and upgrade the classification from Inferred to Indicated, which would enhance confidence ahead of development decisions.
Development Timeline and Strategic Outlook
Resolute is targeting mining commencement at Bantaco in the second half of 2027, aligning with the anticipated depletion of stockpiles at the Mako operation. This timeline is contingent on receiving environmental and social impact approvals by mid-2026, followed by mining license submission. The project benefits from proximity to existing infrastructure and strong stakeholder relationships, factors that could streamline development and reduce capital intensity.
Importantly, the combined Mineral Resources of Bantaco and the nearby Tomboronkoto Project now exceed 600,000 ounces of gold, reinforcing Resolute’s position as a diversified multi-asset gold producer in West Africa. This resource base supports the company’s strategy to maintain steady production and operational resilience in the region.
Looking Ahead
While the current resource is classified as Inferred, reflecting moderate confidence due to drill spacing and lack of confirmatory diamond drilling, Resolute’s planned infill drilling and ongoing exploration could significantly enhance the resource’s quality and size. The upcoming updated MRE scheduled for early 2026 will be a critical milestone for investors and analysts monitoring the project’s progress.
Resolute’s announcement underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable growth in Senegal and the broader West African gold sector, leveraging its technical expertise and local partnerships to unlock new value.
Bottom Line?
Bantaco’s initial resource cements Resolute’s growth path in Senegal, but upcoming drilling and approvals will be key to unlocking its full potential.
Questions in the middle?
- How quickly can Resolute convert Inferred resources to Indicated and Measured categories at Bantaco?
- What are the potential capital and operating costs associated with developing Bantaco compared to Mako?
- How might permitting timelines and environmental approvals impact the planned 2027 mining start?