Evolution Energy Minerals has completed an extensive soil sampling program at its Chikundo Copper Project in Tanzania, setting the stage for a targeted drilling campaign in 2026.
- 1,558 soil samples collected across key prospect areas
- Samples undergoing rigorous QA/QC before laboratory analysis
- Targeting a district-scale VMS copper system within a volcanic caldera margin
- Planning a 1,500–3,000m reverse circulation drilling program pending assay results
- Upcoming webinar to detail exploration strategy and project progress
Soil Sampling Milestone Achieved
Evolution Energy Minerals (ASX, EV1) has successfully completed a comprehensive soil sampling campaign at its Chikundo Copper Project, located within the broader Chilalo tenure in southern Tanzania. The program amassed 1,558 soil samples across the Chikundo, Chikundo East, and Nangurugai prospect areas, marking a significant step in the company’s systematic exploration approach.
This extensive sampling effort is designed to underpin a refined geochemical model targeting a volcanic-hosted massive sulphide (VMS) copper system. Such systems are globally recognised for hosting multiple high-grade copper deposits, often associated with caldera margin geological settings, a feature Evolution has identified at Chikundo.
Next Phase, Laboratory Analysis and Drilling Preparation
Currently, the collected samples are undergoing stringent internal quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) procedures, including verification of sample integrity and location accuracy. Following this, the samples will be dispatched to SGS Laboratories in Johannesburg for detailed four-acid digest ICP-MS geochemical analysis, a method known for its precision in detecting trace elements critical to mineral exploration.
Parallel to the laboratory work, Evolution is advancing the design and permitting of an initial reverse circulation (RC) drilling program, anticipated to cover between 1,500 and 3,000 metres. This drilling campaign aims to test the geochemical anomalies identified through soil sampling and to delineate the geometry of potential copper mineralisation at depth. The timing and scale of drilling remain contingent on assay results, regulatory approvals, and funding availability.
Engagement and Strategic Outlook
To maintain transparency and investor engagement, Evolution plans to host a webinar soon to provide further insights into the Chikundo project’s exploration strategy and progress. This initiative reflects the company’s commitment to keeping stakeholders informed as it advances towards potentially defining a significant copper resource.
Evolution Energy Minerals continues to position itself as a key player in the critical metals sector, with its Chilalo Graphite Project already recognised as one of the world’s premier graphite developments. The Chikundo Copper Project complements this portfolio by targeting high-grade copper mineralisation within a proven VMS belt, aligning with global demand trends for metals essential to the energy transition.
Bottom Line?
With soil sampling complete and drilling plans underway, Evolution Energy is poised to unlock the next chapter in its Tanzanian copper exploration story.
Questions in the middle?
- What initial geochemical trends will the assay results reveal about copper mineralisation?
- How will funding and permitting timelines impact the planned 2026 drilling program?
- Could the Chikundo project’s geological setting support multiple high-grade VMS deposits?