How Orezone’s P17 Drilling Validates Bomboré’s Hard Rock Expansion Plans
Orezone Gold Corporation reports strong confirmatory drilling results from the P17 Zone at Bomboré, underpinning resource models ahead of the stage 1 hard rock plant commissioning. The new plant is set to boost 2026 gold production by 45%.
- High-grade gold intercepts confirm P17 Zone resource continuity
- Stage 1 hard rock plant commissioning advanced with first gold imminent
- P17 Zone to be primary mill feed source in 2026
- Overall gold production forecast to rise 45% to 170,000–185,000 ounces
- Stage 2 expansion progressing to further increase output
Confirming the P17 Zone Potential
Orezone Gold Corporation has released compelling grade control drilling results from the P17 Zone at its flagship Bomboré Gold Mine in Burkina Faso. The P17 Zone, a high-grade hard rock deposit exposed at surface, has delivered multiple significant gold intercepts, including 3.28 grams per tonne over 26 metres and 5.55 grams per tonne over 15 metres. These results confirm the continuity and high-grade nature of the mineralisation, validating the company’s resource and reserve models ahead of mining.
President and CEO Patrick Downey highlighted the success of the drilling program, noting it focused on the first six months of planned production. Mining activities have commenced in the P17 area, with ore scheduled for processing at the new hard rock plant once commissioning concludes.
Advancing the Hard Rock Expansion
The stage 1 hard rock plant commissioning is well underway, with key components such as the jaw crusher already operational and a crushed ore stockpile established. The SAG mill is turning, and the carbon-in-leach (CIL) circuit is undergoing final water testing. First ore through the mill is expected imminently, marking a major milestone for Orezone.
This expansion is poised to increase Bomboré’s gold production by approximately 45% in 2026, targeting between 170,000 and 185,000 ounces. This significant uplift is expected to drive a cash flow inflection point for the company, supported by a robust balance sheet and favourable gold prices.
Looking Beyond Stage 1
Orezone is also progressing plans for a stage 2 hard rock expansion, which aims to further boost annual production to between 220,000 and 250,000 ounces. The company’s exploration strategy includes a substantial drill program across the broader Bomboré mineralised system, targeting extensions and deeper zones that could support underground mining scenarios later in the mine life.
Qualified Person Alastair Gallaugher has reviewed and approved the technical data, ensuring the reliability of the reported results. The company maintains rigorous quality control protocols, with assays conducted at on-site and external laboratories.
Strategic Implications
The confirmation of high-grade mineralisation in the P17 Zone and the imminent commissioning of the hard rock plant represent pivotal developments for Orezone. These advances not only underpin near-term production growth but also enhance the long-term value proposition of the Bomboré project. Investors will be watching closely as first gold production from the new plant is announced, signaling the transition to a higher production profile.
Bottom Line?
Orezone’s P17 drilling success and hard rock plant commissioning set the stage for a transformative 2026 at Bomboré.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the stage 1 hard rock plant meet its commissioning timeline without delays?
- How will gold price fluctuations impact Orezone’s cash flow projections post-expansion?
- What are the prospects and timelines for the stage 2 hard rock expansion and potential underground mining?