Toubani Taps Ausenco to Drive Kobada Gold Project Forward
Toubani Resources has appointed Ausenco as the EPCM contractor for its Kobada Gold Project in Mali, marking a pivotal step toward project execution and a Final Investment Decision.
- Ausenco selected as EPCM contractor after competitive process
- Scope covers detailed engineering, procurement, construction management, and commissioning
- Appointment follows recent funding package advancing project readiness
- Kobada Project poised as a low-cost, long-life oxide gold operation
- Ausenco brings proven African gold project delivery expertise
Strategic EPCM Appointment
Toubani Resources Limited (ASX – TRE) has taken a significant stride in advancing its flagship Kobada Gold Project in southern Mali by appointing Ausenco Services Pty Ltd as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management (EPCM) contractor. This move follows a recent funding package and signals Toubani’s transition from feasibility studies into the critical execution phase.
Ausenco’s role will encompass detailed engineering design, procurement planning, construction management, commissioning, and integration with Toubani’s project team. The appointment came after a rigorous and competitive selection process, underscoring Toubani’s commitment to securing top-tier expertise for the project’s development.
Project Execution and Readiness
The Kobada Gold Project, located approximately 125 kilometres southwest of Bamako within the prolific Birimian greenstone belt, boasts a robust resource base with 2.2 million ounces of gold in mineral resources and 1.56 million ounces in ore reserves. The project is designed as a low-cost, long-life oxide gold operation with an expected production rate of 162,000 ounces per year over 9.2 years.
Ausenco’s engagement is pivotal to advancing detailed engineering and procurement activities, managing construction on site, and supporting operational readiness through to first gold production. Their global experience, particularly in African gold and base metals projects, aligns well with Toubani’s objectives to deliver a cost-efficient and reliable processing plant.
Leadership Perspectives
Phil Russo, Managing Director of Toubani Resources, expressed confidence in the partnership, highlighting Ausenco’s reputation for delivering successful gold projects globally and their practical approach to project execution. He noted that this collaboration marks a significant milestone on the path to developing one of West Africa’s next producing gold assets.
Reuben Joseph, Ausenco’s President for APAC/Africa Minerals & Metals, echoed this enthusiasm, emphasizing their commitment to safely delivering an optimised and efficient processing plant that supports the project’s long-term performance and operational targets.
Looking Ahead
With Ausenco on board, Toubani is set to commence detailed engineering and procurement planning, finalise construction schedules, and progress various de-risking activities. These steps are critical as the company prepares for a Final Investment Decision (FID), which will determine the project's move into full-scale construction and production.
The Kobada Gold Project’s strong economics, including a low strip ratio, high metallurgical recoveries above 90%, and an initial capital expenditure estimate of US$216 million, position it as an attractive development opportunity in West Africa’s mining landscape.
Bottom Line?
Ausenco’s appointment accelerates Kobada’s journey from planning to production, setting the stage for Toubani’s next major milestone.
Questions in the middle?
- When exactly will Toubani announce the Final Investment Decision for Kobada?
- How will Ausenco’s involvement impact the project’s capital expenditure and timeline?
- What are the key risks that remain before construction can commence?
