West Wits Secures New Prospecting Right to Extend Qala Shallows Depth

Strategic Expansion at Witwatersrand Basin Project

West Wits Mining Limited (ASX – WWI) has announced the granting of a new Prospecting Right, PR 10839, to its South African subsidiary West Wits MLI. This new right is positioned directly adjacent and to the south of the company’s existing Mining Right MR 10073 at the Witwatersrand Basin Project (WBP) near Johannesburg. The move is a clear signal of West Wits’ intent to deepen and expand its footprint in one of the world’s most prolific gold regions.

The new prospecting area provides a natural depth extension to the Qala Shallows Kimberley Reef ore body, a key focus of the company’s current mining operations. This extension is expected to enhance the continuity of the Kimberley Reef, which is one of three distinct reefs targeted within the WBP, alongside the Bird Reef and Main Reef.

Geological Modelling and Resource Review Underway

West Wits has engaged geological consultants Shango Solutions to undertake detailed modelling of existing sample and survey data within the newly granted PR 10839 area. This work aims to refine the understanding of the Kimberley Reef’s geology and support a reassessment of the Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE).

Importantly, the company is reviewing its MRE using a lower cut-off grade than previously applied. The original 2.0 grams per tonne threshold was set in a gold price environment around USD 1,200 per ounce, whereas current gold prices hover near USD 4,500 per ounce. This significant increase in gold price justifies a more inclusive resource estimate, potentially unlocking additional economically viable ore.

Implications for Qala Deeps Project and Future Growth

The PR 10839 area, together with the previously granted PR 10730, is expected to form part of the Stage 4 Qala Deeps Project, representing a deeper phase of development within the broader WBP. This progression underscores West Wits’ long-term strategy to extend mine life and increase resource base through targeted exploration and resource optimisation.

While the announcement does not quantify the expected increase in resources or provide a timeline for the completion of geological modelling, the strategic positioning of PR 10839 and the ongoing MRE review are positive indicators of potential growth. Investors will be watching closely for updates on the outcomes of these technical studies and any subsequent changes to project development plans.

West Wits continues to leverage the world-renowned Witwatersrand Basin, which has historically produced over 1.5 billion ounces of gold, accounting for roughly 22% of all gold ever mined globally. The company’s focus on high-value precious metals in this prolific region positions it well to benefit from sustained gold demand and favourable market conditions.