Aurum Resources has reported multiple high-grade gold intercepts from its extensive drilling program at the Boundiali Gold Project in Côte d'Ivoire, underpinning plans for aggressive resource growth and a Pre-Feasibility Study in 2026.
- Multiple high-grade gold intercepts confirmed at Boundiali's BDT2 deposit
- Gold mineralisation remains open along strike and at depth
- 100,000m diamond drilling planned at Boundiali in 2026
- Pre-Feasibility Study and updated Mineral Resource Estimates due Q1 2026
- Strong cash position of approximately $40.1 million to fund exploration and development
Robust High-Grade Drilling Results
Aurum Resources Limited (ASX – AUE) has unveiled encouraging results from its ongoing diamond drilling campaign at the Boundiali Gold Project in Côte d'Ivoire. The company’s 100,000-metre infill drilling program at the BDT2 deposit has yielded multiple high-grade gold intercepts, including standout results such as 4.03 metres at 10.22 grams per tonne gold and 7.15 metres at 4.71 grams per tonne gold, with some intervals reaching over 30 grams per tonne.
These results not only confirm the presence of significant gold mineralisation but also extend the known mineralised zones, with gold remaining open both along strike and at depth. This suggests substantial potential for further resource expansion beyond the current 2.41 million ounces indicated at Boundiali.
Strategic Growth and Development Plans
Building on these promising drilling outcomes, Aurum is gearing up for an aggressive exploration and development agenda in 2026. The company plans to deploy up to 12 diamond drill rigs to complete 100,000 metres of drilling at Boundiali, targeting resource growth and increased confidence. Additionally, a 30,000-metre drilling program is underway at the Napié Gold Project, which currently holds 0.87 million ounces of gold resources.
Crucially, Aurum aims to release updated Mineral Resource Estimates for both Boundiali and Napié, alongside a Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) for Boundiali, all scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. These milestones are expected to provide a clearer economic and technical picture of the projects, paving the way toward a Definitive Feasibility Study later in the year.
Operational Advantages and Financial Strength
Aurum’s operational edge lies in its ownership and operation of a fleet of 12 diamond drill rigs, enabling rapid and cost-effective exploration compared to peers. This capability allows the company to systematically test multiple deposits simultaneously, accelerating resource delineation and discovery.
Financially, Aurum is well-positioned with an unaudited cash balance of approximately $40.1 million as of December 31, 2025. This robust funding base supports the company’s ambitious drilling and development programs without immediate capital raising concerns.
Geological Context and Regional Significance
The Boundiali Gold Project is situated within a prolific greenstone belt in Côte d'Ivoire, a region hosting several large-scale gold mines operated by industry majors such as Resolute, Perseus, Barrick, and Montage Gold. Aurum’s deposits are hosted in thick sandstone units within a major shear zone, with mineralisation characterised by free-milling gold associated with quartz veins and disseminated sulphides.
The project’s strategic location and geological setting enhance its prospectivity, with Aurum actively expanding its footprint through additional tenement applications and joint ventures, aiming to consolidate a significant gold resource base in the region.
Looking Ahead
With ongoing drilling, upcoming resource updates, and a PFS on the horizon, Aurum Resources is advancing steadily toward unlocking the full potential of its Côte d'Ivoire gold assets. The company’s integrated approach combining operational capacity, financial strength, and geological promise positions it well to deliver value to shareholders in 2026 and beyond.
Bottom Line?
Aurum’s 2026 drilling and development milestones will be critical in defining the next phase of growth for its Côte d'Ivoire gold projects.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the upcoming Pre-Feasibility Study impact Aurum’s project valuation and financing options?
- What are the potential geopolitical or operational risks in Côte d'Ivoire that could affect project timelines?
- To what extent can Aurum expand mineral resources beyond current boundaries with ongoing drilling?