Connected Minerals (ASX:CML) is mobilising a ~6,000m reverse circulation and diamond drilling program at its Bailundo Carbonatite Project in Angola, aiming to define a maiden JORC Mineral Resource for niobium and rare earth elements.
- Maiden systematic drilling targeting niobium and rare earths
- Two large surface-expressed target zones validated by expert review
- Geophysical surveys to refine drill targeting underway
- Drilling contracts executed and site infrastructure established
- Maiden JORC Mineral Resource Estimate targeted by mid-2027
Maiden Drilling Programmes Set to Unlock Bailundo's Potential
Connected Minerals (ASX:CML) is transitioning from planning to execution with the launch of its first systematic drilling program at the Bailundo Carbonatite Project in Angola. The company has contracted approximately 6,000 metres of reverse circulation (RC) and diamond drilling to test two priority target areas for niobium (Nb) and rare earth elements (REE), aiming to provide the geological data needed to support a maiden JORC Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE).
The Bailundo Carbonatite Complex spans roughly 7 kilometres in diameter, ranking it among the largest underexplored carbonatite systems globally. Its shallow, regolith-hosted mineralisation offers the prospect of low-strip open-pit mining, a feature that underpins the strategic focus of the drilling campaign.
Independent Validation and Target Refinement
Internationally recognised carbonatite expert Dr Pete Siegfried recently reviewed the project's geology and historical data, endorsing Connected Minerals' interpretation and confirming two distinct, surface-expressed Nb and REE target zones. Describing Bailundo as "one of the larger, and importantly underexplored, carbonatite complexes on the planet," Dr Siegfried's insights have been integrated into the drill program design, influencing target prioritisation, drill spacing, and hole orientation.
The drilling will focus on a ~22.5-hectare southern zone rich in niobium, with 2,500 metres planned across 45 holes on a tighter 100m by 50m grid reflecting more advanced geological understanding. The northern zone, covering 162 hectares and associated with elevated REE soil anomalies, will see approximately 3,000 metres drilled over 54 holes on a broader 150m by 200m pattern, marking its first systematic evaluation. An additional 500 metres of scout drilling will test new targets highlighted by recent geophysical surveys.
Geophysical Surveys Enhance Targeting Precision
Ground Penetrating Radar and Electrical Resistivity Tomography surveys by GeoFocus (Pty) Ltd are nearing interpretation completion, while a high-resolution drone magnetic survey is also close to finalisation. These integrated datasets aim to clarify the geometry and thickness of the weathered carbonatite profile, identify previously unrecognised mineralised zones, and optimise drill hole placement and depth.
Connected Minerals is also considering a broader airborne magnetic and radiometric survey across the wider project area to uncover additional targets beyond the initial drilling scope.
Operational Momentum and Stakeholder Engagement
Physical mobilisation is well underway, with drilling contracts signed, site infrastructure established, and access roads prepared. The company has secured warehousing, offices, and staff accommodation, and engaged local geologists and administrative personnel to support operations. Local businesses are providing accommodation, catering, and logistics, reflecting a commitment to community involvement.
Strong government and community relationships have been fostered, including meetings with the Governor of Huambo Province, the King of Bailundo, and traditional leaders, alongside ongoing engagement with Angola's Ministry of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas and the National Agency for Mineral Resources. These interactions have reinforced support for the drilling program and facilitated regulatory and environmental approvals.
Looking Ahead: Resource Definition and Exploration Growth
Drilling is scheduled to commence in August 2026, aiming for completion before the November wet season. Connected Minerals targets delivery of the maiden JORC MRE by the end of the June 2027 quarter, contingent on drilling outcomes and geological continuity. The program represents a critical step in systematically evaluating one of the world's largest underexplored carbonatite complexes and lays the groundwork for future resource expansion and development studies.
The company remains in discussions to acquire historical exploration data from 2010 to 2014 to supplement its understanding, though the current drilling program is not dependent on this data.
Bottom Line?
The success of Connected Minerals' maiden drilling at Bailundo will be pivotal in defining its resource potential and shaping the project's development trajectory.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the maiden drilling confirm sufficient continuity and grade to support a robust JORC resource?
- How might the integration of geophysical data influence the identification of new target zones?
- What impact will local stakeholder engagement have on the project's regulatory and operational progress?