Orezone Hits First Gold Pour, Boosting 2026 Output by 45%
Orezone Gold Corporation has successfully completed commissioning of its Bomboré hard rock expansion, achieving first gold production and setting the stage for a significant increase in output next year.
- First gold poured from new 2.5Mtpa hard rock expansion
- Mill throughput averaged 78% capacity in initial days
- Commercial production expected early Q1 2026
- 2026 gold production forecast increased by 45% to 170,000-185,000 ounces
- Stage 2 expansion underway to further raise output to 220,000-250,000 ounces
Milestone Achieved at Bomboré
Orezone Gold Corporation has marked a pivotal moment with the first gold pour from its newly commissioned 2.5 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) hard rock expansion at the Bomboré Gold Mine in Burkina Faso. This milestone, announced on December 15, 2025, signals the transition from construction to operational status for the stage 1 expansion, which was completed on time and within budget after roughly 12 months of work.
Strong Early Performance
During the initial five days of operation, the mill achieved an average throughput of 78% of its nameplate capacity, a promising start that bodes well for ramping up to full production. Patrick Downey, Orezone’s President and CEO, highlighted the dedication and expertise of the team behind this achievement, emphasizing the project’s industry-leading delivery standards.
Production and Financial Outlook
With commercial production anticipated in early Q1 2026, Orezone expects the expansion to drive a 45% increase in gold output at Bomboré, raising annual production to between 170,000 and 185,000 ounces. This surge represents a significant cash flow inflection point for the company, especially in the context of record-high gold prices and a robust balance sheet. Investors will be watching closely as this increased production capacity translates into financial results.
Looking Ahead, Stage 2 Expansion
Beyond the immediate boost from stage 1, Orezone is progressing with stage 2 of the hard rock expansion. This next phase aims to elevate annual production further, targeting between 220,000 and 250,000 ounces. The successful commissioning of stage 1 lays a solid foundation for this ambitious growth trajectory, positioning Orezone as a rising force in West African gold mining.
Navigating Risks and Expectations
While the outlook is positive, Orezone’s forward-looking statements come with customary cautions. Factors such as operational challenges, geopolitical risks in Burkina Faso, and fluctuating commodity prices could influence outcomes. Nevertheless, the company’s transparent communication and technical oversight by qualified engineers provide confidence in its strategic execution.
Bottom Line?
Orezone’s Bomboré expansion sets a new production benchmark, but the market will await Q1 2026 commercial production confirmation to gauge true impact.
Questions in the middle?
- Will Orezone sustain or exceed the initial 78% mill throughput as ramp-up continues?
- How will rising gold prices influence Orezone’s cash flow and reinvestment plans?
- What are the timelines and capital requirements for the stage 2 expansion?
