8
March 2024
Ore Resources Maintained with Exploration Success in both
Mali and Senegal
Highlights
·
Total Mineral
Resources maintained at 11.2 million ounces (Moz)
of gold with exploration success at Syama North
in Mali and Tomboronkoto in Senegal offsetting mining
depletion
·
Total Ore
Reserves decreased marginally to 4.4 Moz (from 4.6 Moz in December 2022) in line with expectations due
to mining depletion across both operations
·
Syama North Ore
Reserves increased over 17% to 1.0 Moz and
Measured and
Indicated Mineral Resources increased 47% to 2.7 Moz
following successful drilling campaigns in 2023
·
Mineral
Resources in Senegal increased significantly
following the maiden Mineral Resource Estimate
("MRE") at the Tomboronkoto satellite deposit of 403 koz grading
1.2g/t
Resolute Mining Limited (Resolute,
the Company or the Group) (ASX/LSE: RSG), is pleased to announce
the Company's Annual Ore Reserve and Resource Statement at 31
December 2023.
Terry Holohan, CEO and Managing Director,
commented, "these results are in line with our
expectations given the work we are conducting on our growth
projects.
At Syama the
exploration teams have been focussed on the infilling of the 3.5
Moz Syama North project, raising the M&I to over 2.7 Moz, with
first mining commencing later this year. We are also conducting
detailed mine optimisations with an uplift in our Ore Reserve
estimate to 1 Moz and we expect further increases going
forward.
At Mako the
drilling of the first of our three major mineralisation satellite
targets, Tomboronkoto, we recently published a maiden Mineral
Resource estimate of 403 koz and drilling is
continuing."
At 31 December 2023 Resolute's
direct share of Ore Reserves decreased by approximately 230 koz to
3.61 Moz across the Group. Mineral Resources increased by 51 koz to
9.16 Moz due to the additional Resources at Syama North and
Tomboronkoto.
A detailed breakdown of the
Company's Ore Reserves and Mineral Resources at 31 December 2023
representing the Syama and Mako operations is presented in the
tables below. Tables 1 and 2 show a summary of total Ore Reserves
and Mineral Resources respectively on a 100% basis. The 2023 Annual
Ore Reserve Statement and the 2023 Annual Mineral Resource
Statement are in Table 3 and 4 respectively.
All tonnes and grade information
have been rounded to reflect relative uncertainty of the estimate,
small differences may be present in the totals.
Table 1: Ore Reserves (100%
Basis)
|
Proved
|
|
Probable
|
|
Total
|
As at
December 2023
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
Syama
|
3,063
|
1.5
|
153
|
|
44,979
|
2.6
|
3,804
|
|
48,041
|
2.6
|
3,957
|
Mako
|
4,445
|
1.1
|
152
|
|
3,652
|
2.1
|
250
|
|
8,097
|
1.5
|
402
|
Managed Ore Reserves
|
7,508
|
1.3
|
304
|
|
48,631
|
2.6
|
4,054
|
|
56,139
|
2.4
|
4,358
|
Total Ore Reserves as at 31
December 2023 on a 100% basis total 4.4 Moz after mining depletion,
changes in modifying factors and an increase in reserves at Syama
North. Increases in Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources
at Syama North, following successful drilling campaigns in 2023,
permitted an increased open pit Ore Reserve to 1.0 Moz grading 2.6
g/t up from the previous Ore Reserve of 854koz grading 2.5
g/t.
In Mali, the Ore Reserves at Syama
decreased by approximately 150koz to 4.0Moz marginally due to
mining depletion in line with expectation in both the open pit and
underground reserves and changes in modifying factors. This
re-modelling has caused the oxide Ore Reserves to decrease to
215koz grading 1.5g/t.
Ore Reserves at the Mako Gold Mine
decreased in line with mining depletion.
Table 2: Mineral Resources (100%
Basis)
|
Measured
|
Indicated
|
Inferred
|
Total
Resources
|
As at
December 2023
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
Syama
|
31,541
|
2.8
|
2,872
|
63,528
|
2.8
|
5,704
|
33,376
|
1.6
|
1,686
|
128,445
|
2.5
|
10,263
|
Mako
|
4,608
|
1.1
|
156
|
6,234
|
1.8
|
363
|
10,668
|
1.2
|
416
|
21,510
|
1.4
|
936
|
Managed Mineral
Resources
|
36,149
|
2.6
|
3,029
|
69,762
|
2.7
|
6,067
|
44,044
|
1.5
|
2,102
|
149,955
|
2.3
|
11,198
|
Mineral Resources (inclusive of
Ore Reserves) at 31 December 2023, on a 100% basis, contain 11.2
Moz of gold. The Company's fully attributable Mineral Resources
position, net of government interests is 9.2 Moz of
gold.
Mineral Resources increased
marginally in 2023 following additions at Syama North during the
year.
Successful drilling programs at
Syama North have consistently increased Mineral Resources since
exploration commenced in 2021. During 2023 the Syama North
Mineral Resource increased to 37.9Mt at a grade of 2.9g/t Au for
3.5Moz.
In Senegal, the Mineral Resources
at Mako decreased in line with mining depletion. Moreover, in
Senegal there is an additional 403 koz of Inferred Resources at a
grade of 1.2 g/t (reported at a cut-off grade of 0.5 g/t) from the
Tomboronkoto deposit (maiden MRE announced on 24th
January 2024).
Table 3: Ore Reserves Statement
|
|
Proved
|
Probable
|
|
|
Total
|
Group
Share
|
Ore Reserves
As at December 2023
|
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
oz
|
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
(000s)
|
Mali
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
80%
|
Syama Underground
|
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
23,588
|
2.5
|
1,865
|
|
23,588
|
2.5
|
1,865
|
1,492
|
Syama Stockpiles
|
|
1,071
|
1.8
|
61
|
1,823
|
1.3
|
79
|
|
2,894
|
1.5
|
139
|
112
|
Sub Total (Sulphides)
|
|
1,071
|
1.8
|
61
|
25,411
|
2.4
|
1,943
|
|
26,482
|
2.4
|
2,004
|
1,603
|
Syama Satellite
Deposits
|
|
97
|
1.8
|
6
|
13,137
|
2.5
|
1,052
|
|
13,234
|
2.5
|
1,058
|
846
|
Stockpiles (satellite
deposits)
|
|
919
|
1.5
|
44
|
1,403
|
1.0
|
43
|
|
2,322
|
1.2
|
87
|
70
|
Sub Total Satellite Deposits
|
|
1,016
|
1.5
|
50
|
14,540
|
2.3
|
1,095
|
|
15,556
|
2.3
|
1,145
|
916
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
90%
|
Tabakoroni Underground
|
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
5,028
|
4.7
|
766
|
|
5,028
|
4.7
|
766
|
689
|
Tabakoroni Open Pit
|
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
Tabakoroni Satellite
Deposits
|
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
0
|
Tabakoroni Stockpiles
|
|
975
|
1.3
|
42
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
|
975
|
1.3
|
42
|
38
|
Sub Total Tabakoroni
|
|
975
|
1.3
|
42
|
5,028
|
4.7
|
766
|
|
6,033
|
4.2
|
808
|
727
|
Mali Total
|
|
3,063
|
1.5
|
153
|
44,979
|
2.6
|
3,804
|
|
48,041
|
2.6
|
3,957
|
3,246
|
Senegal
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
90%
|
Mako
|
|
345
|
1.9
|
21
|
3,652
|
2.1
|
250
|
|
3,997
|
2.1
|
271
|
244
|
Mako Stockpiles
|
|
4,100
|
1.0
|
131
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
|
4,100
|
1.0
|
131
|
118
|
Senegal Total
|
|
4,445
|
1.1
|
152
|
3,652
|
2.1
|
250
|
|
8,097
|
1.5
|
402
|
362
|
Total Ore Reserves
|
|
7,508
|
1.3
|
304
|
48,631
|
2.6
|
4,054
|
|
56,139
|
2.4
|
4,358
|
3,608
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
Notes:
1. Mineral
Resources include Ore Reserves.
2. All
tonnes and grade information have been rounded to reflect relative
uncertainty of the estimate, small differences may be present in
the totals.
3. Syama
Underground mine planning is based on a cut-off grade of
2g/t.
4. Syama
Satellite Reserves are reported above 0.8g/t cut-off.
5. Syama
North Sulphide Reserves are reported above 1.0g/t
cut-off.
6.
Tabakoroni Underground Reserves are reported above a 2.75g/t
cut-off.
7.
Tabakoroni Satellite Reserves are reported above 1.1g/t
cut-off.
8. Mako
Reserves are reported above 0.9g/t cut-off.
Resolute's asset ownership is 80%
of Syama (Mali Government 20%), 90% of Tabakoroni (Mali Government
10%), 90% of Mako (Senegalese Government 10%). As such, the
Company's fully attributable Ore Reserves position net government
interests, is 3.6Moz of gold - see Table 3.
Table 4: Mineral Resources
Statement
|
Measured
|
Indicated
|
Inferred
|
Total
Resources
|
Group
Share
|
Mineral Resources
As at December 2023
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
Tonnes
|
g/t
|
oz
|
oz
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
(000s)
|
|
(000s)
|
(000s)
|
Mali
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
80%
|
Syama Underground
|
24,023
|
3.1
|
2,356
|
24,940
|
2.6
|
2,061
|
1,903
|
2.0
|
124
|
50,866
|
2.8
|
4,540
|
3,632
|
Stockpiles (sulphide)
|
1,071
|
1.8
|
62
|
1,777
|
1.3
|
75
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
2,848
|
1.5
|
137
|
110
|
Sub Total (Sulphides)
|
25,094
|
3.0
|
2,418
|
26,717
|
2.5
|
2,136
|
1,903
|
2.0
|
124
|
53,714
|
2.7
|
4,677
|
3,742
|
Satellite Deposits
|
3,448
|
2.8
|
311
|
30,032
|
2.8
|
2,709
|
12,783
|
2.5
|
1,013
|
46,263
|
2.7
|
4,034
|
3,227
|
Stockpiles (satellite
deposits)
|
1,848
|
1.4
|
85
|
1,449
|
1.0
|
45
|
46
|
1.1
|
2
|
3,343
|
1.2
|
131
|
105
|
Sub Total Satellite Deposits
|
5,296
|
2.3
|
396
|
31,481
|
2.7
|
2,754
|
12,829
|
2.5
|
1,015
|
49,606
|
2.6
|
4,165
|
3,332
|
Old Tailings
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
17,000
|
0.7
|
365
|
17,000
|
0.7
|
365
|
292
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
90%
|
Tabakoroni Open Pit
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
151
|
4.5
|
22
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
151
|
4.5
|
22
|
20
|
Tabakoroni Underground
|
6
|
3.5
|
1
|
5,179
|
4.8
|
792
|
1,644
|
3.5
|
182
|
6,829
|
4.4
|
976
|
878
|
Tabakoroni Satellite
Deposits
|
191
|
2.0
|
12
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
191
|
2.0
|
12
|
11
|
Tabakoroni Stockpiles
|
954
|
1.5
|
46
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
954
|
1.5
|
46
|
41
|
Sub Total Tabakoroni
|
1,151
|
1.6
|
58
|
5,330
|
4.8
|
815
|
1,644
|
3.5
|
183
|
8,125
|
4.0
|
1,055
|
950
|
Mali Total
|
31,541
|
2.8
|
2,872
|
63,528
|
2.8
|
5,704
|
33,376
|
1.6
|
1,686
|
128,445
|
2.5
|
10,263
|
8,316
|
Senegal
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
90%
|
Mako
|
507
|
1.6
|
25
|
6,234
|
1.8
|
363
|
464
|
0.9
|
13
|
7,206
|
1.7
|
401
|
361
|
Tomboronkoto
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
10,204
|
1.2
|
403
|
10,204
|
1.2
|
403
|
363
|
Mako Stockpiles
|
4,100
|
1.0
|
131
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
4,100
|
1.0
|
131
|
118
|
Senegal Total
|
4,608
|
1.1
|
156
|
6,234
|
1.8
|
363
|
10,668
|
1.2
|
416
|
21,510
|
1.4
|
935
|
842
|
Total Mineral Resources
|
36,149
|
2.6
|
3,029
|
69,762
|
2.7
|
6,067
|
44,044
|
1.5
|
2,102
|
149,955
|
2.3
|
11,198
|
9,157
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
Notes:
Mineral Resources include Ore
Reserves.
All tonnes and grade information
have been rounded to reflect relative uncertainty of the estimate,
small differences may be present in the totals.
Resources are reported above
1.0g/t cut-off for the Syama North.
Resources for the SLC at Syama is
reported within an MSO shape generated at 1.5g/t and south of the
SLC within an MSO shape generated at 1.5g/t.
Resources for the Cashew NE,
Paysans, Tellem and Porphyry Zone (Splay) are reported above a
cut-off of 1.0g/t.
Resources for Tabakoroni Open Pit
are reported above a cut-off of 1.0g/t and within a US$2,000
optimised shell.
Resources for the Tabakoroni
Underground are reported within an MSO shape generated at 1.75g/t
(equivalent to US$2,000).
Mako Resources are reported above
a cut-off of 0.5g/t and within a US$2,000 optimised
shell.
Tomboronkoto Resources are
reported above a cut-off of 0.5g/t
Competent Persons
Statement
The information in this
announcement that relates to data quality, geological
interpretation and Mineral Resource estimation for the various
projects unless specified in the list below is based on information
compiled by Bruce Mowat, a Competent Person who is a Member of the
Australian Institute of Geoscientists and a full-time employee of
Resolute Corporate Services Pty Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Resolute Mining Limited. Mr Mowat has sufficient experience that is
relevant to the styles of mineralisation and type of deposits under
consideration and to the activity being undertaken as a Competent
Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the "Australasian Code for
Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore
Reserves" (JORC Code 2012). Mr Mowat consents to the inclusion in
this announcement of the material compiled by him in the form and
context in which it appears.
The information in this statement
that relates to the Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves listed below
is based on information and supporting documents prepared by the
Competent Person identified. Each person specified in the list has
sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of
mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the
activity, which has been undertaken to qualify as a Competent
Person as defined in the JORC Code 2012.
Mr Smillie, Mr Ndjibu and Mr
Patani are full-time employees of Resolute Corporate Services Pty
Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Mining
Limited.
Activity
|
Competent Person
|
Membership Institution
|
|
|
|
Syama Resource
|
Patrick Smillie
|
Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and
Exploration
|
Syama Reserve
|
Gito Patani
|
Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy
|
Syama North Resource
|
Patrick Smillie
|
Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and
Exploration
|
Syama North Reserve
|
Kitwa Ndjibu
|
Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy
|
Syama Tailings Facility
|
Susan Havlin
|
Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and
Exploration
|
Tabakoroni OP Resource
|
Susan Havlin
|
Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy
|
Tabakoroni OP Reserves
|
Kitwa Ndjibu
|
Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy
|
Tabakoroni UG Resource
|
Susan Havlin
|
Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy
|
Tabakoroni UG Reserves
|
Gito Patani
|
Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy
|
Tellem Resource
|
Patrick Smillie
|
Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and
Exploration
|
Tellem Reserves
|
Kitwa Ndjibu
|
Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy
|
Cashew Resource
|
Bruce Mowat
|
Australian Institute of
Geoscientists
|
Cashew Reserves
|
Kitwa Ndjibu
|
Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy
|
Paysans Resource
|
Bruce Mowat
|
Australian Institute of
Geoscientists
|
Paysans Reserves
|
Kitwa Ndjibu
|
Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy
|
Porphyry Zone Resource
|
Bruce Mowat
|
Australian Institute of
Geoscientists
|
Porphyry Zone Reserves
|
Kitwa Ndjibu
|
Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy
|
Mako Resources
|
Bruce Mowat
|
Australian Institute of
Geoscientists
|
Mako Reserves
|
Kitwa Ndjibu
|
Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy
|
Tomboronkoto Resource
|
Bruce Mowat
|
Australian Institute of
Geoscientists
|
Authorised by Mr Terry
Holohan, Managing Director and Chief Executive
Officer
Contact
Resolute
Matty O'Toole Howes,
Corporate Development and Investor Relations
Manager
Motoolehowes@resolutemining.com
+44 203 3017 620
|
Public Relations
Jos Simson, Tavistock
resolute@tavistock.co.uk
+44 207 920 3150
Corporate Brokers
Jennifer Lee, Berenberg
+44 20 3753 3040
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+44 20 7236 1010
|
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APPENDIX
Ore Reserves Comparison to 31 December 2022
Reserves and Resources comply with the
Australasian Code for Reporting of Mineral Resources and Reserves
(The JORC Code 2004 and JORC Code 2012).
|
|
Dec-23
|
Dec-22
|
|
|
Tonnes
|
Gold grade
|
Ounces
|
Group
Share
|
Group
Share
|
Tonnes
|
Gold grade
|
Ounces
|
Group
Share
|
Group
Share
|
|
(000s)
|
(g/t)
|
(000s)
|
%
|
Ounces
|
(000s)
|
(g/t)
|
(000s)
|
%
|
Ounces
|
Ore Reserves
|
Proved
|
Proved
|
Comment on
Changes
|
Mali
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Syama Stockpiles
(Sulphide)
|
1,071
|
1.8
|
61
|
80%
|
48
|
707
|
2.0
|
46
|
80%
|
37
|
Movement in operating
stockpiles
|
Syama North
|
97
|
1.8
|
6
|
80%
|
5
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
80%
|
0
|
New Reserve
|
Stockpiles (Oxide)
|
919
|
1.5
|
44
|
80%
|
35
|
881
|
1.3
|
38
|
80%
|
30
|
Movement in operating
stockpiles
|
Porphyry Zone (Splay)
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
80%
|
0
|
164
|
2.2
|
11
|
80%
|
10
|
Depleted
|
Tabakoroni Open Pit
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
90%
|
0
|
48
|
1.9
|
3
|
90%
|
3
|
Depleted
|
Tabakoroni Stockpiles
|
975
|
1.3
|
42
|
90%
|
38
|
1,080
|
1.4
|
50
|
90%
|
45
|
Movement in operating
stockpiles
|
Senegal
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mako
|
345
|
1.9
|
21
|
90%
|
19
|
697
|
2.0
|
44
|
90%
|
40
|
COG change and mining
depletion
|
Mako Stockpiles
|
4,100
|
1.0
|
131
|
90%
|
118
|
3,861
|
1.0
|
128
|
90%
|
115
|
Movement in operating
stockpiles
|
Total Proved
|
7,508
|
1.3
|
304
|
|
263
|
7,438
|
1.3
|
320
|
|
279
|
|
|
Probable
|
Probable
|
Comment on
Changes
|
Mali
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Syama Underground
|
23,588
|
2.5
|
1,865
|
80%
|
1,492
|
25,500
|
2.6
|
2,094
|
80%
|
1,675
|
Depletion from mining, updated
resource model, and new cave flow settings
|
Syama Stockpiles
(sulphide)
|
1,823
|
1.3
|
79
|
80%
|
63
|
1,817
|
1.3
|
78
|
80%
|
63
|
Movement in operating
stockpiles
|
Syama North
|
11,878
|
2.6
|
984
|
80%
|
787
|
10,582
|
2.5
|
854
|
80%
|
683
|
New pit optimisation (A21, Ba01N,
Ba04, Alpha) from new resource model
|
Stockpiles (Syama
North)
|
1,403
|
1.0
|
43
|
80%
|
34
|
1,403
|
1.0
|
43
|
80%
|
34
|
No change
|
Cashew
|
120
|
1.3
|
5
|
80%
|
4
|
109
|
1.4
|
5
|
80%
|
4
|
Revised modifying factors (COG
from 0.8 to 1.0)
|
Paysans
|
598
|
1.6
|
31
|
80%
|
25
|
609
|
1.7
|
33
|
80%
|
27
|
New pit design, mining depletion,
and revised modifying factors
|
Folona
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
80%
|
0
|
2
|
1.6
|
0
|
80%
|
0
|
Depleted
|
Tabakoroni Open Pit
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
90%
|
0
|
222
|
1.7
|
12
|
90%
|
11
|
Depleted
|
Tabakoroni Underground
|
5,028
|
4.7
|
766
|
90%
|
689
|
5,028
|
4.7
|
766
|
90%
|
689
|
No change
|
Senegal
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mako
|
3,652
|
2.1
|
250
|
90%
|
225
|
4,948
|
2.2
|
348
|
90%
|
313
|
COG change and mining
depletion
|
Total Probable
|
48,631
|
2.6
|
4,054
|
|
3,345
|
51,284
|
2.6
|
4,317
|
|
3,566
|
|
Total Reserves
|
56,139
|
2.4
|
4,358
|
|
3,608
|
58,723
|
2.5
|
4,637
|
|
3,845
|
|
Appendix Table 1: Ore Reserves
Comparison - 31 December 2023 to 31 December 2022
Notes:
1.
Mineral Resources include Ore
Reserves.
2.
All tonnes and grade information have been rounded to reflect
relative uncertainty of the estimate, small differences may be
present in the
totals.
3.
Syama Underground mine planning is based on a cut-off grade of
2g/t.
4.
Syama Satellite Reserves are reported above 0.8g/t
cut-off.
5.
Tabakoroni Underground Reserves are reported above a 2.75g/t
cut-off.
6.
Tabakoroni Satellite Reserves are reported above 1.1g/t
cut-off.
7.
Mako Reserves are reported above 0.9g/t cut-off.
Mineral Resources Comparison To 31 December
2023
|
Dec-23
|
Dec-22
|
|
Tonnes
|
Gold grade
|
Ounces
|
Group
Share
|
Group
Share
|
Tonnes
|
Gold grade
|
Ounces
|
Group
Share
|
Group
Share
|
(000s)
|
(g/t)
|
(000s)
|
%
|
Ounces
|
(000s)
|
(g/t)
|
(000s)
|
%
|
Ounces
|
Mineral Resources
|
Measured
|
Measured
|
Comment on Changes
|
Mali
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Syama Underground
|
24,023
|
3.1
|
2,356
|
80%
|
1,885
|
21,235
|
3.5
|
2,362
|
80%
|
1,890
|
Depletion due to mining and new
resource
|
Syama Stockpiles
(Sulphide)
|
1,071
|
1.8
|
62
|
80%
|
50
|
707
|
2.0
|
46
|
80%
|
37
|
Movement in operating
stockpiles
|
Syama North
|
2,417
|
3.2
|
251
|
80%
|
201
|
717
|
3.5
|
81
|
80%
|
65
|
New Resource and depletion due to
mining
|
Stockpiles (Oxide)
|
1,848
|
1.4
|
85
|
80%
|
68
|
739
|
1.6
|
38
|
80%
|
30
|
Movement in operating
stockpiles
|
Cashew NE
|
1,031
|
1.8
|
60
|
80%
|
48
|
1,031
|
1.8
|
60
|
80%
|
48
|
No change
|
Tabakoroni Open Pit
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
90%
|
0
|
33
|
3.9
|
4
|
90%
|
4
|
Depletion from mining.
|
Tabakoroni Underground
|
6
|
3.5
|
1
|
90%
|
1
|
6
|
3.5
|
1
|
90%
|
1
|
No change
|
Tabakoroni Stockpiles
|
954
|
1.5
|
46
|
90%
|
41
|
945
|
1.4
|
42
|
90%
|
38
|
Movement in operating
stockpiles
|
Porphyry Zone (Splay)
|
191
|
2.0
|
12
|
90%
|
11
|
191
|
2.0
|
12
|
90%
|
11
|
No change
|
Senegal
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mako
|
507
|
1.6
|
25
|
90%
|
23
|
1,103
|
1.6
|
56
|
90%
|
50
|
Depletion due to mining
|
Mako Stockpiles
|
4,100
|
1.0
|
131
|
90%
|
118
|
3,852
|
1.0
|
121
|
90%
|
109
|
Movement in operating
stockpiles
|
Total Measured
|
36,149
|
2.6
|
3,029
|
|
2,445
|
30,558
|
2.9
|
2,822
|
|
2,282
|
|
|
Indicated
|
Indicated
|
|
Mali
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Syama Underground
|
24,940
|
2.6
|
2,061
|
80%
|
1,649
|
25,920
|
3.0
|
2,483
|
80%
|
1,986
|
Depletion due to mining and new
resource
|
Syama Stockpiles
(Sulphide)
|
1,777
|
1.3
|
75
|
80%
|
60
|
1,771
|
1.3
|
75
|
80%
|
60
|
Movement in operating
stockpiles
|
Syama North
|
25,301
|
3.0
|
2,412
|
80%
|
1,930
|
18,457
|
3.0
|
1,774
|
80%
|
1,419
|
New Resource and depletion due to
mining
|
Stockpiles (Oxide)
|
1,449
|
1.0
|
45
|
80%
|
36
|
1,657
|
1.0
|
52
|
80%
|
42
|
Movement in operating
stockpiles
|
Paysans
|
3,437
|
1.8
|
199
|
80%
|
159
|
3,437
|
1.8
|
199
|
80%
|
159
|
No change
|
Tellem
|
1,294
|
2.4
|
98
|
80%
|
79
|
2,208
|
2.3
|
162
|
80%
|
130
|
New Resource
|
Tabakoroni Open Pit
|
151
|
4.5
|
22
|
90%
|
20
|
205
|
5.0
|
33
|
90%
|
30
|
Depletion due to mining
|
Tabakoroni Underground
|
5,179
|
4.8
|
792
|
90%
|
713
|
5,179
|
4.8
|
792
|
90%
|
713
|
No change
|
Senegal
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mako
|
6,234
|
1.8
|
363
|
90%
|
327
|
8,458
|
1.8
|
487
|
90%
|
438
|
Depletion due to mining
|
Total Indicated
|
69,762
|
2.7
|
6,067
|
|
4,971
|
67,293
|
2.8
|
6,057
|
|
4,977
|
|
Mineral Resources
|
Inferred
|
Inferred
|
Comment on Changes
|
Mali
|
|
|
|
Syama Underground
|
1,903
|
2.0
|
124
|
80%
|
99
|
1,359
|
2.6
|
112
|
80%
|
90
|
New Resource and
depletion.
|
Syama North
|
9,502
|
2.6
|
806
|
80%
|
645
|
14,863
|
2.8
|
1,319
|
80%
|
1,065
|
New Resource and
depletion.
|
Stockpiles (Syama
North)
|
46
|
1.1
|
2
|
80%
|
1
|
46
|
1.1
|
2
|
80%
|
1
|
No change
|
Paysans
|
1,765
|
1.7
|
98
|
80%
|
78
|
1,765
|
1.7
|
98
|
80%
|
78
|
No change
|
Tellem
|
1,516
|
2.2
|
109
|
80%
|
88
|
2,528
|
2.3
|
187
|
80%
|
150
|
New resource
|
Tabakoroni Open Pit
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
90%
|
0
|
1
|
6.0
|
0
|
90%
|
0
|
Depletion from mining.
|
Tabakoroni Underground
|
1,644
|
3.5
|
183
|
90%
|
164
|
1,644
|
3.5
|
183
|
90%
|
164
|
No change
|
Tailings Storage
Facility
|
17,000
|
0.7
|
365
|
80%
|
292
|
17,000
|
0.7
|
365
|
80%
|
292
|
No change
|
Senegal
|
|
|
|
Mako
|
464
|
0.9
|
13
|
90%
|
12
|
682
|
0.9
|
19
|
90%
|
17
|
Depletion due to mining
|
Tomboronkoto
|
10,204
|
1.2
|
403
|
90%
|
363
|
0
|
0.0
|
0
|
90%
|
0
|
New resource
|
Total Inferred
|
44,044
|
1.5
|
2,102
|
|
1,742
|
39,888
|
1.8
|
2,284
|
|
1,848
|
|
Total Resources
|
149,955
|
2.3
|
11,198
|
|
9,157
|
137,739
|
2.5
|
11,164
|
|
9,106
|
|
Appendix Table 2: Mineral
Resources Comparison - 31 December 2023 to 31 December
2022
Notes:
1.
Mineral Resources include Ore Reserves.
2.
All tonnes and grade information have been rounded to reflect
relative uncertainty of the estimate, small differences may be
present in the totals.
3.
Resources are reported above 1.0g/t cut-off for the Syama
North.
4.
Resources for the SLC at Syama is reported within an MSO shape
generated at 1.5g/t and south of the SLC within an MSO shape
generated at 1.5g/t.
5.
Resources for the Cashew NE, Paysans, Tellem and Porphyry Zone
(Splay) are reported above a cut-off of 1.0g/t.
6.
Resources for Tabakoroni Open Pit are reported above a cut-off of
1.0g/t and within a US$2,000 optimised shell.
7.
Resources for the Tabakoroni Underground are reported within an MSO
shape generated at 1.75g/t (equivalent to US$2,000).
8.
Mako Resources are reported above a cut-off of 0.5g/t and within a
US$2,000 optimised shell.
JORC Code, 2012 Edition - Table 1 Report
Syama Gold Mine
Section 1 Sampling Techniques and
Data
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Sampling techniques
|
· Nature and quality of sampling (e.g. cut channels, random
chips, or specific specialised industry standard measurement tools
appropriate to the minerals under investigation, such as down hole
gamma sondes, or handheld XRF instruments, etc.). These examples
should not be taken as limiting the broad meaning of
sampling.
· Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample
representivity and the appropriate calibration of any measurement
tools or systems used.
· Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are
Material to the Public Report.
· In cases where 'industry standard' work has been done this
would be relatively simple (e.g. 'reverse circulation drilling was
used to obtain 1 m samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to
produce a 30 g charge for fire assay'). In other cases, more
explanation may be required, such as where there is coarse gold
that has inherent sampling problems. Unusual commodities or
mineralisation types (e.g. submarine nodules) may warrant
disclosure of detailed information.
|
The mineral resource estimate was based on data collected from
reverse circulation (RC) and diamond core (DD) drill holes
completed by Resolute Mining Limited (2003-2023), Randgold
Resources Ltd (1996-2000) and BHP (1987-1996).
Diamond core was sampled at 1m
intervals and cut in half, to provide a 2-4kg sample, which was
sent to the laboratory for crushing, splitting and pulverising, to
provide a 30g charge for analysis.
RC samples were collected on 1m
intervals via a cyclone by riffle split (dry), or by scoop (wet),
to obtain a 2-4kg sample which was sent to the laboratory for
crushing, splitting and pulverising to provide a 30g charge for
analysis.
Resolute sampling and sample
preparation protocols are industry standard and are deemed
appropriate by the Competent Person.
The Randgold and BHP diamond core
and RC samples were taken on 1m intervals. Due to the historical
nature of the data sampling protocols are not known.
|
Drilling techniques
|
· Drill type (e.g. core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer,
rotary air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc.) and details (e.g.
core diameter, triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails,
face-sampling bit or other type, whether core is oriented and if
so, by what method, etc.).
|
Drill types used include diamond core of HQ and NQ
sizes.
Core is oriented at 3m down hole
intervals using a Reflex Act II RD Orientation Tool and more
recently using a Reflex north seeking gyro instrument.
|
Drill sample recovery
|
· Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample
recoveries and results assessed.
· Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure
representative nature of the samples.
· Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and
grade and whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential
loss/gain of fine/coarse material.
|
Drill core interval recoveries are measured from core block to core
block using
a tape measure.
Appropriate measures are taken to
maximise sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the
samples.
No apparent relationship between
sample recovery and grade.
|
Logging
|
· Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and
geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate
Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical
studies.
· Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in
nature.
· Core (or costean, channel, etc.) photography.
· The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections
logged.
|
Drill holes were geologically logged by geologists for colour,
grainsize, lithology, minerals, alteration and weathering on
geologically domained intervals.
Geotechnical and structure
orientation data was measured and logged for all diamond core
intervals.
Diamond core was photographed (wet
and dry).
Holes were logged in their
entirety (100%) and this logging was considered reliable and
appropriate.
|
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
|
Sub-sampling techniques
and
sample preparation
|
·
If core, whether cut or
sawn and whether quarter, half or all core taken.
·
If non-core, whether
riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc. and whether sampled wet
or dry.
·
For all sample types, the
nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation
technique.
·
Quality control procedures
adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise representivity of
samples.
·
Measures taken to ensure
that the sampling is representative of the in-situ material
collected, including for instance results for field
duplicate/second-half sampling.
·
Whether sample sizes are
appropriate to the grain size of the material being
sampled.
|
Diamond core were sampled at 1m intervals and cut in half to obtain
a 2-4kg sample.
Reverse circulation samples were
collected on 1m intervals by riffle split (dry) or by scoop (wet)
to obtain a 2-4kg sample.
Sample preparation for diamond
core and RC samples includes oven drying, crushing to 10mm and
splitting, pulverising to 85% passing -75um. These preparation
techniques are deemed to be appropriate to the material and element
being sampled.
Drill core coarse duplicates were
split by the laboratory after crushing at a rate of 1:20 samples.
Reverse circulation field duplicates were collected by the company
at a rate of 1:20 samples.
Resolute sampling, sample
preparation and quality control protocols are of industry standard
and all attempts were made to ensure an unbiased representative
sample was collected. The methods applied in this process were
deemed appropriate by the Competent Person.
Sub-sampling techniques and sample
preparation completed by previous owners is not known.
|
|
Quality of assay data and laboratory tests
|
·
The nature, quality and
appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and
whether the technique is considered partial or
total.
·
For geophysical tools,
spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc., the parameters used
in determining the analysis including instrument make and model,
reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation,
etc.
·
Nature of quality control
procedures adopted (e.g. standards, blanks, duplicates, external
laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (i.e.
lack of bias) and precision have been
established.
|
All Resolute samples were analysed for gold by 30g fire assay
fusion with AAS instrument finish. The analysis was performed by
ALS Bamako, ALS Ouagadougou, or SGS Morila. The analytical method
was appropriate for the style of mineralisation.
No geophysical tools were used to
determine elemental concentrations.
Quality control (QC) procedures
included the use of certified standards and blanks (1:20), non-
certified sand blanks (1:20), diamond core coarse duplicates (1:20)
and reverse circulation field duplicates (1:20).
Laboratory quality control data,
including laboratory standards, blanks, duplicates, repeats and
grind size results were also captured into the digital
database.
Analysis of the QC sample assay
results indicates that an acceptable level of accuracy and
precision has been achieved.
The assay techniques used by
Randgold and BHP include fire assay fusion with AAS instrument
finish and aqua regia with AAS. The majority of the samples were
analysed at the onsite Syama laboratory. Due to the historical
nature of the Randgold and BHP data the assay procedures are not
known for all samples.
|
|
Verification of sampling and assaying
|
·
The verification of
significant intersections by either independent or alternative
company personnel.
·
The use of twinned
holes.
·
Documentation of primary
data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage
(physical and electronic) protocols.
·
Discuss any adjustment to
assay data.
|
Verification of significant intersections have been completed by
company personnel and the competent person.
No drill holes within the resource
area were twinned.
Drill holes were logged onto paper
templates or Excel templates with lookup codes, validated and then
compiled into a relational SQL 2012 database using DataShed data
management software. The database has a variety of verification
protocols which are used to validate the data entry. The drill hole
database is backed up daily to the head office server.
Assay result files were reported
by the laboratory in PDF and CSV format and imported directly into
the SQL database without adjustment or modification.
Resolute has conducted extensive
reviews, data validation and data verification on the historic data
collected by the previous owners, Randgold and BHP.
|
Location of
data points
|
·
Accuracy and quality of
surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys),
trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral
Resource estimation.
·
Specification of the grid
system used.
·
Quality and adequacy of
topographic control.
|
Collar coordinates were picked up in UTM (WGS84) by staff surveyors
using an RTK DGPS with an expected accuracy of 0.05m; elevations
were height above EGM96 geoid.
Down hole surveys were collected
using single shot and multi shot magnetic survey tools including
Reflex EZTrac and EZShot instruments. A time-dependent declination
was applied to the magnetic readings to determine UTM
azimuth. Diamond drilling completed in 2017 and 2018 has
utilised a Reflex EZ Gyro downhole survey instrument to provide
more frequent data points and reduced magnetic
interference.
Coordinates and azimuth are
reported in UTM WGS84 Zone 29 North in this release.
Coordinates were translated to
local mine grid where appropriate.
Local topographic control is via
satellite photography and drone UAV Aerial Survey.
|
Data spacing
and distribution
|
·
Data spacing for reporting
of Exploration Results.
·
Whether the data spacing
and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of
geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral
Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and
classifications applied.
·
Whether sample compositing
has been applied.
|
The drill hole spacing was sufficient to demonstrate geological and
grade continuity appropriate for
Mineral Resource estimation and
classification in accordance with the 2012 JORC Code.
The appropriateness of the drill
spacing was reviewed by the geological technical team, both on site
and within the Resolute group. This was also reviewed by the
Competent Person.
RC and diamond core samples were
collected on 1m intervals; no sample compositing is applied during
sampling.
|
Orientation of data in relation to geological
structure
|
·
Whether the orientation of
sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the
extent to which this is known, considering the deposit
type.
·
If the relationship between
the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised
structures is considered to have introduced a sampling bias, this
should be assessed and reported if material.
|
Holes were drilled predominantly perpendicular to mineralised
domains where possible.
No orientation-based sampling bias
has been identified in the data.
|
Sample security
|
·
The measures
taken to ensure sample security.
|
Samples were collected from the drill site and stored on site. All samples were individually bagged and labelled with unique sample identifiers then securely dispatched to the laboratories.
All aspects of sampling process
were supervised and tracked by SOMISY personnel.
|
Audits or reviews
|
·
The results of
any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and
data.
|
External audits of procedures indicate protocols are within
industry standards.
|
Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Mineral tenement and land tenure status
|
· Type, reference
name/number, location and ownership including agreements or
material issues with third parties such as joint ventures,
partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests,
historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental
settings.
· The security of the tenure
held at the time of reporting along with any known impediments to
obtaining a licence to operate in the
area.
|
Drilling was conducted within the Malian Exploitation Concession
Permit PE 93/003 which has an area of
200.6km2.
Resolute Mining
Limited has an 80% interest in the Syama project and the Exploitation Permit
PE-93/003, on which it is based, through its Malian subsidiary, Sociêtê des Mines de Syama SA (SOMISY). The Malian
Government holds a free carried 20% interest in SOMISY.
The Permit is held in good
standing. Malian mining law provides that all mineral resources are
administered by DNGM (Direction Nationale de la Géologie et des
Mines) or National Directorate of Geology and Mines under the
Ministry of Mines, Energy and Hydrology.
|
Exploration
done by other parties
|
· Acknowledgment and
appraisal of exploration by
other parties.
|
The Syama deposit was originally discovered by a regional
geochemical survey undertaken by the Direction National de Géologie
et des Mines (DNGM) with assistance from the United Nations
Development Program (UNDP) in 1985. There had also been a long
history of artisanal activities on the hill where an outcropping
chert horizon originally marked the present-day position of the
open pit.
BHP during 1987-1996 sampled pits,
trenches, auger, RC and diamond drill holes across Syama
prospects.
Randgold Resources Ltd during
1996-2000 sampled pits, trenches, auger, RAB, RC and diamond drill
holes across Syama prospects.
|
Geology
|
· Deposit type, geological
setting and style of mineralisation.
|
The Syama Project is found on the northern margin of the
Achaean-Proterozoic Leo Shield which forms the southern half of the
West African Craton. The project area straddles the boundary
between the Kadiana-Madinani terrane and the Kadiolo terrane. The
Kadiana-Madinani terrane is dominated by greywackes and a narrow
belt of interbedded basalt and argillite. The Kadiolo terrane
comprises polymictic conglomerate and sandstone that were sourced
from the Kadiana-Madinani terrane and deposited in a late- to
syntectonic basin.
Prospects are centred on the NNE
striking, west dipping, Syama-Bananso Fault Zone and Birimian
volcano-sedimentary units of the Syama Formation. The major
commodity being sought is gold.
|
Drill hole Information
|
· A summary of all
information material to the understanding of the exploration
results including a tabulation of the following information for all
Material drill holes:
o easting and northing of the
drill hole collar.
o elevation or RL (Reduced
Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole
collar.
o dip and azimuth of the
hole.
o down hole length and
interception depth.
o Whole
length.
· If the exclusion of this
information is justified on the
basis that the information is not Material and this exclusion does
not detract from the understanding of the report,
the Competent Person should clearly explain why this is the
case.
|
No new exploration results have been reported in
this release.
The listing of the entire drill
hole database used to estimate the resource was not considered
relevant for this release.
|
Data aggregation methods
|
· In reporting Exploration
Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or minimum
grade truncations (e.g. cutting of high grades) and cut-off grades
are usually Material and should be stated.
· Where aggregate intercepts
incorporate short lengths of high-grade results and longer lengths
of low-grade results, the procedure used for such aggregation
should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations
should be shown in detail.
· The assumptions used for
any reporting
of metal equivalent values should be clearly
stated.
|
No new exploration results have been reported in
this release.
Metal equivalent values are not
used in reporting.
|
Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept
lengths
|
· These relationships are
particularly important in the reporting of Exploration
Results.
· If the geometry of the
mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is known, its
nature should be reported.
· If it is not known and only
the down hole lengths are reported, there should be a clear
statement to this effect (e.g. 'down hole length, true width not
known').
|
The mineralisation is steeply dipping at approximately
600 from the horizontal.
Most of the drill holes are
planned at local grid 0900 at a general inclination of
‑600 east to achieve as close to perpendicular to the
ore zone as possible.
At the angle of the drill holes
and the dip of the ore zones, the reported intercepts will be
slightly more than true width.
|
Diagrams
|
· Appropriate maps and
sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be
included for any significant discovery being reported. These should
include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar
locations and appropriate sectional views.
|
Relevant maps, diagrams and tabulations are included in the body of
text.
|
Balanced reporting
|
· Where comprehensive
reporting of all Exploration Results is not practicable,
representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or widths
should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration
Results.
|
Mineral Resources are being reported in this
announcement.
No new exploration results have
been reported in this release.
|
Other substantive exploration data
|
· Other exploration data, if
meaningful and material, should be reported including (but not
limited to): geological observations; geophysical survey results;
geochemical survey results; bulk samples - size and method of
treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater,
geotechnical and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or
contaminating substances.
|
No geophysical and geochemical data and any additional exploration
information has been reported in this release, as they are not
deemed relevant to the release.
|
Further work
|
· The nature and scale of
planned further work (e.g. tests for lateral extensions or depth
extensions or large-scale step-out drilling).
· Diagrams clearly
highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main
geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this
information is not commercially
sensitive.
|
Depth extension drilling is planned to test the down-dip potential
of the Syama ore body at depth, and beneath the current limit of
drilling.
|
Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE
EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Database
integrity
|
· Measures taken to ensure that
data has not been corrupted by, for example, transcription or keying errors, between its initial collection and its use for Mineral Resource estimation purposes.
· Data validation procedures used.
|
Data has been compiled into a relational SQL database; the setup of
this database precludes the loading of data which does not meet the
required validation protocols. The data is managed using DataShed©
drill hole management software using SQL database techniques.
Validation checks are conducted using SQL and DataShed© relational
database standards. Data has also been checked against original
hard copies for 100% of the data, and where possible, loaded from
original data sources.
Resolute completed the following
basic validation checks on the data supplied prior to resource
estimation:
· Drill holes with overlapping sample intervals.
· Sample intervals with no assay data. Duplicate
records.
· Assay grade ranges.
· Collar coordinate ranges.
· Valid hole orientation data.
There are no significant issues
identified with the data.
|
Site visits
|
· Comment on any site visits undertaken by the Competent Person and the outcome of those visits.
· If no site visits have been undertaken indicate why
this is
the case.
|
The Competent Person visited site
in November 2022 and July of 2023.
|
Geological
interpretation
|
· Confidence in (or conversely, the uncertainty of) the geological interpretation of the mineral deposit.
· Nature of the data used and of any assumptions made.
· The effect, if any, of alternative interpretations on Mineral Resource estimation.
· The use of geology in guiding and controlling Mineral
Resource
estimation.
· The factors affecting continuity both of grade and geology.
|
The digital
database
used for the interpretation included logged intervals for the key stratigraphic zones of Syama. Detailed geological
logs were available in hardcopy and digital and reviewed where necessary.
Drill density (50m by 50m) for the majority of the Syama area allows
for confident interpretation of the geology and mineralised domains. More recent grade control (gc)
drilling (at
25m by 25m spacing) confirms the positions of mineralised zones. Geological
and structural controls support modelled mineralised zones, which
are constrained within geological
units.
Continuity
of mineralisation is affected by proximity to structural conduits (allowing flow of mineralised fluids), stratigraphic position, lithology of key stratigraphic units and porosity of host lithologies.
Wireframes used to constrain the
estimation for Syama South and Nafolo are based on drill hole
intercepts and geological boundaries. All wireframes at Syama South
and Nafolo have been constructed to a 1g/t Au cut-off grade for
shape consistency.
The incorporation of an
independent structural model (Steve King, 2019) gives limited
options for large scale alternate interpretations.
|
Dimensions
|
· The extent and variability of the Mineral Resource
expressed as length (along strike
or otherwise), plan width, and depth below
surface to the upper and lower limits of the Mineral Resource.
|
The Syama area extends for approximately 1,500 metres in strike and the west dipping gold mineralised zone is between 100-200 metres in horizontal width, narrowing at its southern and northern limits. The Mineral Resource is limited in depth by drilling, which extends from surface to a maximum depth of approximately 800 metres vertically.
|
Estimation
and modelling techniques
|
· The nature and appropriateness of the estimation
technique(s) applied and key assumptions, including treatment of extreme grade values, domaining, interpolation parameters and maximum distance of extrapolation from data points. If a computer assisted estimation method was chosen include a description of computer software and parameters used.
· The availability of check estimates, previous estimates and/or mine production records and whether the Mineral Resource estimate takes appropriate account of such data.
· The assumptions made regarding recovery of by- products.
· Estimation of deleterious elements or other non-grade variables of economic significance (e.g. sulphur for acid mine drainage characterization).
· In the case of block model interpolation, the block size in relation to the average sample spacing and the search employed.
· In the case of block model
interpolation, the block size in relation to the average sample
spacing and the search employed.
· Any assumptions behind modelling of selective mining units.
· Any assumptions about correlation between variables.
· Description of how the geological
interpretation was used to control the resource estimates.
· Discussion of basis for using or not using grade cutting or capping.
· The process of validation, the checking process used, the comparison of model data to drill hole data, and use of reconciliation
data if
available.
|
Estimation was completed in
Datamine Studio RM using Categorical Indicator (CI) approach to
define the mineralised blocks followed by an Ordinary Kriged (OK)
model to estimate the gold grade. Grades were estimated into
parent block of 5mE by 12.5mN by 5mRL for Syama underground and
10mE by 25 mN by 10mRl for Syama South and Nafolo. Sub-
celling down to 5mE by 12.5mN by 5mRL was employed for resolution
of the mineralisation boundary at Nafolo.
The categorical model used a
cut-off of 1 g/t gold once the mineralised blocks have been
identified another categorical model within this mineralisation is
carried out at a cut-off of 2 g/t to identify higher grade zones. A
5mE by 12.5mN by 5mRL block size was employed during the
categorical process used to delineate mineralised
regions.
After this process, the model was
reblocked up to 5mE by 25mN by 10mRL for Nafolo while retaining the
smaller size blocks as subcells at mineralisation
boundaries.
The resource model included
estimates for sulphide sulphur and organic carbon which assist with
metallurgical characterisation. The sulphide sulphur is estimated
via a categorical indicator approach with a cut-off grade of 1% to
identify the higher grade blocks and then an OK estimation was
carried out within these blocks. Organic carbon was just
estimated without boundaries into the block model. There are
reduced assays at depth of these two elements so there is some
smoothing at depth.
Kriging neighbourhood analysis was
performed to optimise the block size, sample numbers and
discretisation levels with the goal of minimising conditional bias
in the gold grade estimates.
A larger blocks size for Nafolo
and Syama South was chosen based on this analysis than was employed
in the previous resource estimate and the wider drill
spacing.
A total of three search passes was
used, with the first search pass set to the range of the variogram
for each element. A minimum of 10 and a maximum of 30 samples were
used. The search stayed the same for the second pass but was
increased by a factor of 2 for the third and final pass. The
minimum number of samples was reduced to 8 for the second pass and
6 for the third pass.
Semi-soft boundaries were used
between the higher grade and lower grade domains and between the
lower grade domain and the waste domain for Syama Main. Two
samples either side of the mineralisation boundary were used in the
OK estimation. Hard boundaries were utilised for the domains at
Nafolo, Syama South and all of the domains for sulphide
sulphur.
Un-estimated blocks (less than 1%
for gold) were assigned the domain average grades. No deleterious
elements were found in the ore.
No selective mining units have
been assumed.
No assumptions have been made
regarding the correlation of variables although it is noted that a
broad positive correlation exists between gold and
sulphur.
Estimation searches have been
orientated to respect the orientation of the Syama Formation which
hosts the mineralisation.
Top cuts were applied to reduce
the variability of the data and to remove the outliers.
The estimated block model grades
were visually validated against the input drillhole data and
comparisons were carried out against the drillhole data and by
northing and elevation slices. Global comparison between the input
data and the block grades for each variable is considered
acceptable (±10%).
Comparison with the 2020 Mineral
Resource was carried out.
|
Moisture
|
• Whether the tonnages are estimated on a dry basis or with natural moisture, and the method of determination of the moisture content.
|
All tonnages are estimated on a dry basis.
|
Cut-off parameters
|
• The basis of the adopted cut-off grade(s) or quality parameters applied.
|
Mineral Resources for the main part of Syama was reported within a
shape generated using a MSO (Mineable Shape Optimiser) at 1.3g/t
cut-off grade (equivalent to a US$2,000 gold price) this was based
on the current Sub-Level Caving (SLC) mining method. The material
south of the main zone was reported within an MSO shape generated
at 1.5 g/t cut-off grade (equivalent to a US$2,000 gold price) as
this is planned to be mined by Open Stoping.
|
Mining factors
or assumptions
|
• Assumptions made regarding
possible mining methods, minimum mining dimensions and internal
(or, if applicable, external) mining dilution. It is always
necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable
prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider potential
mining methods, but the assumptions made regarding mining methods
and parameters when estimating Mineral Resources may not always be
rigorous.
Where this is the case, this should be reported with an explanation
of the basis of the mining assumptions made.
|
The current mining method for underground exploitation is
SLC.
The resource model extends from
1,250 mRL to 600 mRL. Open pit mining methods were used by
Resolute to 1,120 mRL. Material testing conducted on samples
of underground ore confirmed that properties such as metallurgical
factors, structural trends and geological continuity remain the
same as observed in the fresh rock portion of the open
pit.
This Mineral Resource does not
account for mining recovery.
|
Metallurgical factors
or assumptions
|
• The basis for assumptions or predictions regarding metallurgical
amenability. It is always necessary as part of the
process of determining
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider potential metallurgical methods, but the assumptions regarding metallurgical treatment processes and parameters made when reporting Mineral Resources may not always be rigorous. Where this is the case, this should be reported with an explanation of the basis of the metallurgical
assumptions
made.
|
Resolute has conducted metallurgical testwork on variability samples taken from
within the proposed underground ore zone. A testwork program was supervised by consultants MineLogix Pty Ltd based on analytical
testwork completed at ALS Metallurgy Laboratory.
The
program
included comminution, flotation, roasting and leaching assessments.
The
planned
processing flowsheet involves crushing, milling, flotation and roasting, followed
by CIL
recovery of the calcine product. The Syama sulphide processing facility has been in operation in its current form since 2007.
The
various testwork programs did not identify any contrasting metallurgical behaviour from
samples within the underground ore zone and the performance of the underground ore typically matches that observed for open pit ore.
|
Environmental factors
or assumptions
|
• Assumptions
made regarding possible waste and process residue disposal options. It is always necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider the potential
environmental impacts of the mining and processing operation. While at this stage the determination of potential
environmental impacts, particularly for a green fields project, may not always be well advanced, the status of early consideration of these potential environmental impacts should be reported. Where these aspects have not been considered this should be reported with an explanation
of the environmental assumptions made.
|
It is a requirement of Decree No.03-594/P-RM of 31 December 2003 of Malian law that an Environmental and Social Impact Study (Étude d'Impact Environmental et Social
- EIES) must be undertaken to update the potential environmental and social impacts of the mine's redevelopment. The EIES for the Syama Gold Mine was approved in November
2007 and an
Environment Permit (07- 0054/MEA - SG) was issued by the Ministry of Environment and Sanitation on the 22 November 2007. The Ministry
of Environment
conduct timely
reviews of the Syama Gold Mine to ensure
that the Company maintains
compliance with the EIES guidelines.
At
Syama there are three key practices for disposal of wastes and residues namely, stacking of waste rock from open pit mining; storage of tailings from
mineral processes; and "tall-stack dispersion" of sulphur dioxide from the roasting of gold bearing
concentrate. All waste
disposal
practices are in accordance
with the
guidelines in the EIES.
The
Environmental and Social Impact Study - "Société des Mines de Syama, Syama Gold Mine, Mali, dated 2007 indicated there was minimal potential
for acid mine drainage from waste rock due to the elevated carbonate content which
buffers a potential acid generation. Resolute maintains a plan
for progressive rehabilitation of waste rock landforms as part of ongoing mine development and waste rock dumping.
The landform of tailings
impoundments does not have a net acid generating potential. The
largest volume is flotation tailings where the sulphide minerals
have already been removed from the host rock. Its mineralogy
includes carbonates which further buffer any acid-formation
potential from sulphides that may also be present.
Cyanide
levels in the leached-calcine tailings are typically less than 50 ppm in the weak acid dissociable form. Groundwater away from the tailing's landform is intercepted by trenches and sump pumps.
Sulphur dioxide is generated from
the roasting of gold concentrate so that gold can be extracted and
refined. Tall-Stack "dispersion" of the sulphur dioxide emission is
monitored continuously. Prevailing weather and dissipation of the
sulphur dioxide is modelled daily to predict the need to pause the
roasting process to meet the air quality criteria set out in the
Environmental and Social Impact Study.
|
Bulk density
|
• Whether assumed or
determined. If assumed, the basis for the assumptions. If
determined, the method used, whether wet or dry, the frequency of
the measurements, the nature, size and representativeness of the
samples.
• The bulk density for bulk
material must have been measured by methods that adequately account
for void spaces (vugs, porosity, etc), moisture and differences
between rock and alteration zones within the
deposit.
• Discuss assumptions for
bulk density estimates used in the evaluation process of the
different materials.
|
Site
personnel have completed numerous bulk density comparative estimates on HQ
drill core to assess variability using the Archimedes method of dry weight versus weight in water. This method was used for 96% of the bulk density measurements.
Other
tests were completed by SGS using
the pycnometer method.
Based on the data
collected the following SG estimates were applied to the model:
· Syama Formation
2.82
· Sikoro Formation
2.75
· Banmbere Conglomerate 2.75
 |
Classification
|
• The basis for the classification of the Mineral Resources into varying confidence categories.
• Whether appropriate account has been taken of all relevant factors (i.e. relative
confidence in tonnage/grade estimations, reliability of input data, confidence in continuity of geology and metal values, quality, quantity and distribution of the data).
• Whether the result appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the deposit.
|
The Measured Mineral Resource classification is based on good
confidence in the geology and gold grade continuity with less than
25m x 25m spaced drillhole density in the central part of the
deposit directly below the current pit.
The Indicated Mineral Resource classification is based
on good
confidence in the geology and gold grade continuity
with less
than 75m x 75m spaced drillhole density
in the central part of the deposit.
The Inferred Mineral Resource classification is applied
to extensions of mineralised zones on the margins of the deposit where drill
spacing
is more than 100m x 100m and the extents of
mineralisation at depth. The Nafolo
orebody to the south of Syama which is tested by wider drill spacing has also been classified as Inferred.
The validation of the block model has confirmed satisfactory correlation of the input data to the estimated grades and reproduction of data trends.
The Mineral Resource estimate appropriately reflects the view of the Competent Persons.
|
Audits or reviews
|
• The results of any audits or reviews of Mineral Resource estimates.
|
The Mineral Resource has been audited internally and in
conjunction with resource consultants at Snowden Optiro Pty
Ltd as part of the routine
validation process. There has been no external review
of the Mineral
Resource
estimate.
|
Discussion of relative accuracy/ confidence
|
• Where appropriate a
statement of the relative accuracy and confidence level in the Mineral Resource estimate using an approach or procedure deemed appropriate by the Competent Person. For example, the application of statistical
or geostatistical
procedures to quantify the relative accuracy of the resource within stated confidence limits, or, if such an approach is not deemed appropriate, a qualitative
discussion of the factors that could affect the relative
accuracy and confidence of the estimate.
• The statement should specify whether it relates to global or local estimates, and, if local, state the relevant tonnages, which
should be relevant to technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should include assumptions made and the procedures used.
• These statements of relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate should be compared with production data, where available.
|
The relative accuracy of the Mineral Resource estimate is reflected in the reporting of Indicated and Inferred resource categories as defined
by 2012 JORC Code guidelines.
The geostatistical techniques
applied to the estimate of underground resources at Syama are deemed appropriate to the estimation of Sub Level Caving (SLC) mining method and hence applicable for reserve estimation.
The estimation was compared with
the production history at Syama and it is within 15-20% which is
within the limits for the relevant classifications.
|
Section 4 Estimation and Reporting of Ore
Reserves
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE
EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Mineral Resource estimate for conversion to Ore
Reserves
|
• Description of the Mineral
Resource estimate used as a basis for the conversion to an
Ore Reserve.
• Clear statement as to
whether the Mineral Resources are reported additional to, or
inclusive of, the Ore Reserve.
|
The Syama 1123 Mineral Resource is the basis for the estimation of
Syama Ore Reserves.
The Mineral Resources are reported
inclusive of Ore Reserves.
|
Site visits
|
• Comment on any site visits
undertaken by the Competent Person and the outcome of those
visits.
• If no site visits have been
undertaken indicate why this is
the case.
|
The Competent Person, Mr. Gito
Patani, is a full-time employee of Resolute Mining Ltd and a Member
of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. He started
with the company in 2021 and conducts site visit to the project
area on a regular basis and weekly contact with site teams was
maintained throughout teams meetings.
|
Study status
|
• The type and level of study
undertaken to enable Mineral Resources to be converted to Ore
Reserves.
• The Code requires that a
study to at least Pre-Feasibility Study level has been undertaken
to convert Mineral Resources to Ore Reserves. Such studies will
have been carried out and will have determined a mine plan that is
technically achievable and economically viable, and that material
Modifying Factors have been considered.
|
Pre-Feasibility and Feasibility studies were previously conducted
for Syama. The Syama UG mine is a going concern. The Ore Reserves
are derived from LOM plan maintained for the ongoing scheduling and
management of Syama UG operations.
|
Cut-off parameters
|
• The basis of the cut-off
grade(s) or quality parameters applied.
|
The LOM plan for Syama is designed based on
constant cut-off grade with dilution and recovery estimation
undertaken in cave flow modelling. The cut-off grade strategy
used for cave flow modelling is based on COG calculation for
various years from Fy23 financial model.
The COG is estimated using: a gold
price of USD 1,650/oz, a metallurgical recovery of 78%, an ad
valorem royalty rate of 6%.
|
Mining factors
or assumptions
|
• The method and assumptions
used as reported in the Pre-Feasibility or Feasibility Study to
convert the Mineral Resource to an Ore Reserve (i.e. either by
application of appropriate factors by optimization or by
preliminary or detailed design).
• The choice, nature and
appropriateness of the selected mining method(s) and other mining
parameters including associated design issues such as pre-strip,
access, etc.
• The assumptions made
regarding geotechnical parameters (e.g. pit slopes, stope sizes,
etc.), grade control and pre-production drilling.
• The major assumptions made
and Mineral Resource model used for pit and stope optimization (if
appropriate).
• The mining dilution factors
used.
• The mining recovery factors
used.
• Any minimum mining widths
used.
• The manner in which
Inferred Mineral Resources are utilized in mining studies
and
the sensitivity of the outcome to their
inclusion.
• The infrastructure
requirements of the selected mining methods.
|
Most of mining at Syama UG is planned
to be undertaken by Sub-Level Caving (SLC) mining methods.
Geotechnical studies have concluded that the deposit is amenable to
SLC, and that caving is likely to be induced at hydraulic radius of
between 12 and 17m. Observed progress from mining to date supports
these conclusions.
Resolute undertakes a program of
grade control drilling at Syama UG to progressively upgrade its
geological confidence at Syama and enable further detailed mine
planning.
The Ore Reserve was estimated
using the block model prepared for estimating the 2023 Mineral
Resource.
The Syama LOM plan is prepared
-from the Mineral Resource block model- using mining industry
standard computer aided design and scheduling software. Initially,
production rings are designed to extract ore. Subsequently, lateral
development and other infrastructure are designed to access
production rings and enable safe and efficient ore
extraction.
Mining dilution and recovery are
estimated for production rings using flow modelling software, PGCA.
Dilution and recovery are inversely related at Syama. In general,
the greater the recovery, the higher the level of dilution that
will be experienced. The Syama LOM planning process balances
recovery against dilution so the cash-flow is
maximized..
With respect to minimum mining
widths, production areas at Syama are planned to ensure that
minimum hydraulic radius is achieved so that caving is induced in
the overlying ground.
Inferred Mineral Resources are not
included in the Syama UG mine planning. All material from Syama
Underground for 2023 OR inventory is categorised as Probable;
comprised mainly of Indicated material. All Inferred and
Unclassified material is classified as waste and not included in
ore reserves
The infrastructure necessary to
extract the Syama UG Ore Reserve is maintained by the
company.
|
Metallurgical factors
or assumptions
|
• The metallurgical process
proposed and the appropriateness of that process to the style of
mineralization.
• Whether the metallurgical
process is well-tested technology or novel in
nature.
• The nature, amount and
representativeness of metallurgical test work undertaken, the
nature of the metallurgical domaining applied and the corresponding
metallurgical recovery factors applied.
• Any assumptions or
allowances made for deleterious elements.
• The existence of any bulk
sample or pilot scale test work and the degree to which such
samples are considered representative of the ore body as a
whole.
• For minerals that are
defined by a specification, has the ore reserve estimation been
based on the appropriate mineralogy to meet the specifications?
|
The Syama deposit is refractory due to locking of gold within the
sulphides and variable amounts of reactive natural carbon which
robs cyanide leach solutions of dissolved gold. Resolute has years
of operating data processing Syama ore and metallurgical testwork
data. Processing of the ore will be via the following
stages:
Crushing and grinding.
Flotation to produce a sulphide
rich concentrate.
Concentrate thickening.
Roasting, followed by calcine
quench and wash.
CIL.
Tailings disposal.
|
Environmental
|
• The status of studies of
potential environmental impacts of the mining and processing
operation. Details of waste rock characterization and the
consideration of potential sites, status of design options
considered and, where applicable, the status of approvals for
process residue storage and waste dumps should be
reported.
|
The Syama Gold Mine operates in accordance with its'
Environmental & Social Impact Study - "Société des Mines de
Syama, Syama Gold Mine, Mali, dated 2007. Waste rock
characterisation has been included in prior studies for this
Environmental & Social Impact Study. Work is ongoing to
optimise the mining operation and environmental management through
the following :
Drilling to investigate rock
characteristics
Mineralogical assay analysis of
drill core
Routine testing of rock material
types for acid generating properties
Developing a sequence, rate and
design optimization for open-pit mine walls, ramps and the waste
rock dump landform to meet the requirements of rock
characteristics.
The outcomes of this work are part
of a continuous improvement program that contributes to the waste
rock dump management plans, annual reporting and
consultation-committee meetings with government and community
representatives.
Tailings storage for the life of
mine is forecast to be impounded over the existing footprint area
approved in the Environmental & Social Impact Study.
Progressive raising of the tailings impoundments will occur to
contain life-of-mine storage capacity. Routine progress on the
monitoring is reported to government and at stakeholder meetings in
concert with routine inspections by government
representatives.
The Syama Project is mature in its
operating life with environmental management permitted by an
Environmental Authority and supported by an Environmental
Management Plan. No impediments are anticipated to the development
of the underground mine.
|
Infrastructure
|
• The existence of
appropriate infrastructure: availability of land for plant
development, power, water, transportation (particularly for bulk
commodities), labour, accommodation; or the ease with which the
infrastructure can be provided or accessed.
|
The Syama Mine and the underground mine site are located near
the two major towns of Kadiola and Sikasso. Kadiola, 55km
southeast, is the regional capital while Sikasso, approximately 85
km to the northeast, is the second largest city in Mali and located
close to the border with Burkina Faso.
Access is via formed gravel road
off the sealed Sikasso to Côte d'Ivoire highway through Kadiola,
and then from Fourou to site. Most consumables and supplies use
this route as it can be approached either from Côte d'Ivoire
through the border post at Zegoua or alternatively from Burkina
Faso and Togo through Sikasso. The road north through Bananso to
Farakala, on the main highway from Bamako to Sikasso, provides an
alternate and shorter route to Bamako. This road is generally
impassable during the wet season when the low level "bridge" at
Bananso is covered with water.
Supporting infrastructure for the
current operations has included upgrading of the 70km section of
road from Kadiola to the site, refurbishment of administration
buildings, plant site buildings and accommodation for housing
expatriate and senior national staff. The underground operations
will also use this infrastructure, with additional allowance made
in the study for underground specific infrastructure on surface,
such as primary ventilation fan installations, additional work
shops and offices, and change rooms for underground
workers.
The site is serviced by two
Internet and mobile telecommunications providers (Sotelma &
Orange), in addition to a point to point satellite connection to
Perth.
The current operation has a peak
continuous power demand of approximately 22MW with an installed
power capacity of 27MW. Power is currently supplied from a diesel
fired power station. Supply of power from the national grid is
being considered in the near future and was incorporated into the
underground study..
|
Costs
|
• The derivation of, or
assumptions made, regarding projected capital costs in the
study.
• The methodology used to
estimate operating costs.
• Allowances made for the
content of deleterious elements.
• The derivation of
assumptions made of metal
or commodity price(s), for the principal minerals and co-
products.
• The source of exchange
rates used in the study.
• Derivation of
transportation charges.
• The basis for forecasting
or source of treatment and refining charges, penalties for failure
to meet specification, etc.
• The allowances made for
royalties payable, both Government and private.
|
Syama is a going concern with
established mining, processing and administration operations with
respect to cost estimates. As part of ongoing operations, capital
and operating budgets are prepared from first principles and
considering existing contractual agreements.
Syama produces gold doré (without
problematic deleterious elements) that is subsequently refined
offsite. Refining costs are not material.
Exchange rates used for planning
purposes are from consensus forecasts provided by external
corporate advisers.
Ad valorem Government royalties of
6% are payable on gold production.
|
Revenue
factors
|
• The derivation of, or
assumptions made regarding revenue factors including head grade,
metal or commodity price(s) exchange rates, transportation and
treatment charges, penalties, net smelter returns,
etc.
• The derivation of
assumptions made of metal or commodity price(s), for the principal
metals, minerals and co-products.
|
Syama's head grade is estimated by mine planning and flow modelling
from the Mineral Resource Estimate.
All revenue and cost estimates
have been made in USD.
The Ore Reserve is based on a
planning gold price of
US$1,650/oz.
|
Market
Assessment
|
• The demand, supply and
stock situation for the particular commodity, consumption trends
and factors likely to affect supply and demand into the
future.
• A customer and competitor
analysis along with the identification of likely market windows for
the product.
• Price and volume forecasts
and the basis for these forecasts.
• For industrial minerals the
customer specification, testing and acceptance requirements prior
to a supply contract.
|
There is a transparent quoted market for the sale of
gold.
|
Economic
|
• The inputs to the economic
analysis to produce the net present value (NPV) in the study, the
source and confidence of these economic inputs including estimated
inflation, discount rate, etc.
• NPV ranges and sensitivity
to variations in the significant assumptions and inputs.
|
The economic assessment of the project demonstrates robust
economics.
|
Social
|
• The status of agreements
with key stakeholders and matters leading to social license to
operate.
|
Resolute assumed management of Société des Mines de Syama in
May 2004. The recently completed open pit operated under the
1993 Permit Syama (No.PE-93/003) and the proposed underground will
do the same.
The selected posts requiring
specific skills or experience will most likely be filled by
expatriates. In addition to performing their job function,
expatriate personnel will be expected to transfer knowledge and
expertise to develop their Malian staff's capabilities. In the
longer term it is anticipated that Malian nationals will fill most
operating and management positions within the company.
It is the intention to encourage
economic development within the local community. Local contracts
therefore, are let wherever possible and the company works actively
with existing and emerging companies to achieve this
aim.
The Syama Mine Community
Consultative Committee was established in February 2001 with
representatives from local villages, the Malian Government and
SOMISY. Since April 2004 the Committee has met regularly as a
communication forum and to address community issues and assist with
community project proposals.
|
Other
|
• To the extent relevant, the
impact of the following on the project and/or on the estimation and
classification of the Ore Reserves:
• Any identified material
naturally occurring risks.
• The status of material
legal agreements and marketing arrangements.
• The status of governmental
agreements and approvals critical to the viability of the project,
such as mineral tenement status, and government and statutory
approvals. There must be reasonable grounds to expect that all
necessary Government approvals will be received within the
timeframes anticipated in the Pre-Feasibility or Feasibility study.
Highlight and discuss the materiality of any unresolved matter that
is dependent on a third party on which extraction of the reserve is
contingent.
|
High seasonal rain fall events present a risk for the underground
operations.
All current government agreements
and approvals are in good standing and no anticipated changes are
expected.
|
Classification
|
• The basis for the
classification of the Ore Reserves into varying confidence
categories.
• Whether the result
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
• The proportion of Probable
Ore Reserves that have been derived from Measured Mineral Resources
(if any).
|
All Measured and Indicated Resources were converted to Probable
Reserves, given the sub-level caving method.
|
Audits or reviews
|
• The results of any audits
or reviews of Ore Reserve estimates.
|
Snowden Mining Industry Consultants completed the Syama Underground
Pre-Feasibility study in 2015 and later contributed to detailed
designs incorporated in the Definitive Feasibility Study.
Subsequent mining studies have been conducted in conjunction with
various industry experts from external companies relevant to the
areas of study.
No other external audits of Ore
Reserves were undertaken.
|
Discussion of relative accuracy/ confidence
|
• Where appropriate a
statement of the relative accuracy and confidence level in the Ore
Reserve estimate using an approach or procedure deemed appropriate
by the Competent Person. For example, the application of
statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify the relative
accuracy of the reserve within stated confidence limits, or, if
such an approach is not deemed appropriate, a qualitative
discussion of the factors which could affect the relative accuracy
and confidence of the
estimate.
• The statement should
specify whether it relates to global or local estimates, and, if
local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be relevant to
technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should include
assumptions made and the procedures used.
• Accuracy and confidence
discussions should extend to specific discussions of any applied
Modifying Factors that may have a material impact on Ore Reserve
viability, or for which there are remaining areas of uncertainty at
the current study stage.
• It is recognized that this
may not be possible or appropriate in all circumstances. These
statements of relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate
should be compared with production data, where available.
|
Treatment costs and recoveries are based on the actual performance
of processing underground ore and provide
a high level of confidence.
Resolute has extensive experience
with a similar underground operation at the Company's Mt Wright
mine in Australia. This experience was combined with industry
average assumptions, where required, to provide a level of accuracy
and confidence
that falls within the required standard for a Definitive
Feasibility Study and the subsequent Mining studies.
All the parameters assumed and
adopted including the
financial modelling and analysis have been subject to internal
peer review.
The Ore Reserve estimate is based on the Mineral Resource estimate.
Consequently, the Ore Reserve estimate accuracy is dependent on the
Mineral Resource estimate accuracy.
|
Tabakoroni
Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Sampling
techniques
|
• Nature and quality of
sampling (e.g. cut channels, random chips, or specific specialised
industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the minerals
under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld
XRF instruments, etc.). These examples should not be taken as
limiting the broad meaning of sampling.
• Include reference to
measures taken to ensure sample representivity and the appropriate
calibration of any measurement tools or systems
used.
• Aspects of the
determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public
Report.
• In cases where 'industry
standard' work has been done this would be relatively simple (e.g.
'reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m samples from
which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire
assay'). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as
where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems.
Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (e.g. submarine
nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information.
|
The samples were collected from reverse circulation (RC) and
diamond core drill holes.
RC samples were collected on 1m
intervals by riffle split (dry) or by scoop (wet), to obtain
a 1-3kg sample which was sent to the laboratory for crushing,
splitting and pulverising to provide a 30g charge for
analysis.
Diamond core was sampled at 1m
intervals and cut in half, to provide a 2-4kg sample,
which was sent to the laboratory for crushing, splitting and
pulverising to provide a 30g charge for analysis.
Sampling and sample preparation
protocols are industry standard and are deemed appropriate by the
Competent Person.
|
|
Drilling techniques
|
• Drill type (e.g. core,
reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air blast, auger,
Bangka, sonic, etc.) and details (e.g. core diameter, triple or
standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other
type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method,
etc.).
|
Drill types used include diamond core of PQ and HQ sizes
and RC.
Core is oriented at 3m down hole
intervals using a Reflex Act II RD Orientation Tool.
|
|
Drill sample recovery
|
• Method of recording and
assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results
assessed.
• Measures taken to maximise
sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the
samples.
• Whether a relationship
exists between sample recovery and grade and whether sample bias
may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse
material.
|
Drill core interval recoveries are measured from core block to core
block using a tape measure.
Appropriate measures are taken to
maximise sample recovery and ensure the representative nature of
the samples.
No apparent relationship is noted
between sample recovery and grade.
|
|
Logging
|
• Whether core and chip
samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level
of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation,
mining studies and metallurgical studies.
• Whether logging is
qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean, channel,
etc.) photography.
• The total length and
percentage of the relevant intersections logged.
|
Drill holes were geologically logged by geologists for colour,
grainsize, lithology, minerals, alteration and weathering on
geologically-domained intervals.
Geotechnical and structure
orientation data was measured and logged for all diamond core
intervals.
Diamond core was photographed (wet
and dry).
Holes were logged in their
entirety (100%) and this logging was considered reliable and
appropriate.
|
|
Sub-sampling techniques
and sample preparation
|
• If core, whether cut or
sawn and whether quarter, half or all core taken.
• If non-core, whether
riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc. and whether sampled wet
or dry.
• For all sample types, the
nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation
technique.
• Quality control procedures
adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise representivity of
samples.
• Measures taken to ensure
that the sampling is representative of the in-situ material
collected, including for instance results for field
duplicate/second-half sampling.
• Whether sample sizes are
appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled.
|
Diamond core was sampled at 1m intervals and cut in half to obtain
a 2-4kg sample.
Reverse circulation samples were
collected on 1m intervals by riffle split (dry) or by scoop (wet)
to obtain a 1-3kg sample.
Sample preparation for diamond
core and RC samples includes oven drying, crushing to 10mm,
splitting and pulverising to 85% passing -75µm. These preparation
techniques are deemed to be appropriate to the material being
sampled.
Drill core coarse duplicates were
split by the laboratory after crushing at a rate of 1:20 samples.
Reverse circulation field duplicates were collected by the Company
at a rate of 1:20 samples.
Sampling, sample preparation and
quality control protocols are of industry standard and all attempts
were made to ensure an unbiased representative sample was
collected. The methods applied in this process were deemed
appropriate by the Competent Person.
|
|
Quality of assay data and
laboratory tests
|
• The nature, quality and
appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and
whether the technique is considered partial or
total.
• For geophysical tools,
spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc., the parameters used
in determining the analysis including instrument make and model,
reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation,
etc.
• Nature of quality control
procedures adopted (e.g. standards, blanks, duplicates, external
laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (i.e.
lack of bias) and precision have been established.
|
All samples were dispatched to ALS Bamako for gold analysis by 30g
fire assay fusion with AAS instrument finish (method code Au-AA25).
Over-range results were re-analysed and reported by 30g fire assay
fusion with gravimetric finish (method code Au-GRA21). The
analytical method was appropriate for the style of
mineralisation.
No geophysical tools were used to
determine elemental concentrations.
Quality control (QC) procedures
included the use of certified standards (1:40), non-certified sand
blanks (1:40), diamond core coarse duplicates (1:20) and reverse
circulation field duplicates (1:20).
Laboratory quality control data,
including laboratory standards, blanks, duplicates, repeats, grind
size results and sample weights were also captured into the digital
database.
Analysis of the QC sample assay
results indicates that an acceptable level of accuracy and
precision has been achieved.
|
|
Verification of sampling
and assaying
|
• The verification of
significant intersections by either independent or alternative
company personnel.
• The use of twinned
holes.
• Documentation of primary
data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage
(physical and electronic) protocols.
• Discuss any adjustment to
assay data.
|
Verification of significant intersections have been completed by
the Company personnel and the Competent Person.
No drill holes within the resource
area were twinned.
Drill holes were logged into
digital templates with lookup codes, validated and then compiled
into a relational SQL 2012 database using DataShed data management
software. The database has verification protocols which are used to
validate the data entry. The drill hole database is backed up on a
daily basis to the head office server.
Assay result files were reported
by the laboratory in PDF and CSV format and imported into the SQL
database without adjustment or modification.
|
|
Location of
data points
|
• Accuracy and quality of
surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys),
trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral
Resource estimation.
• Specification of the grid
system used.
• Quality and adequacy of
topographic control.
|
Collar coordinates were picked up in UTM (WGS84) by staff surveyors
using an RTK DGPS with an expected accuracy of ±0.05m; elevations were height above
EGM96 geoid.
Down hole surveys were collected
at intervals between 5m and 30m using either a Reflex EZ-Gyro north
seeking instrument or a Reflex EZ-Trac magnetic instrument in
single shot or multi shot mode. A time-dependent declination was
applied to the magnetic readings to determine UTM
azimuth.
Coordinates and azimuths are
reported in UTM WGS84 Zone 29 North.
Coordinates were translated to
local mine grid using 1 point and rotation.
Local topographic control is via
LIDAR surveys, satellite photography and drone UAV
aerial survey.
|
|
Data spacing and distribution
|
• Data spacing for reporting
of Exploration Results.
• Whether the data spacing
and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of
geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral
Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and
classifications applied.
• Whether sample compositing
has been applied.
|
Drill hole spacing was sufficient to demonstrate geological and
grade continuity appropriate for a Mineral Resource and the
classifications applied under the 2012 JORC Code.
The appropriateness of the drill
spacing was reviewed by the geological technical team, both on site
and head office. This was also reviewed by the Competent
Person.
Samples were collected on 1m
intervals; no sample compositing is applied during
sampling.
|
|
Orientation of data in relation to geological
structure
|
• Whether the orientation of
sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the
extent to which this is known, considering the deposit
type.
• If the relationship between
the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised
structures is considered to have introduced a sampling bias, this
should be assessed and reported if material.
|
Holes were drilled predominantly perpendicular to mineralised
domains where possible.
No orientation-based sampling bias
has been identified in
the data.
|
|
Sample security
|
• The measures taken to
ensure sample security.
|
Samples were collected from the drill site and stored on site. All
samples were individually bagged and labelled with unique sample
identifiers, then securely dispatched to the laboratories. All
aspects of sampling and dispatch process were supervised and
tracked by SOMIFI personnel.
|
|
Audits or reviews
|
• The results of any audits
or reviews of sampling techniques
and data.
|
External audits of procedures indicate protocols are within
industry standards.
|
|
|
|
|
| |
Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Mineral tenement and land tenure status
|
• Type, reference
name/number, location and ownership including agreements or
material issues with third parties such as joint ventures,
partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests,
historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental
settings.
• The security of the tenure
held at the time of reporting along with any known impediments to
obtaining a licence to operate in the area.
|
Tabakoroni drilling was completed within the Finkolo-Tabakoroni
Exploitation Licence PE 13/19. Resolute Mining Limited has an 85%
interest in Exploitation Permit PE 13/19, through its Malian
subsidiary, Sociêtê des Mines de Finkolo SA (SOMIFI). The Malian
Government holds a free carried 10% interest in SOMIFI.
The Permits are held in good
standing. Malian mining law provides that all Mineral Resources are
administered by DNGM (Direction Nationale de la Géologie et des
Mines) or National Directorate of Geology and Mines under the
Ministry of Mines, Energy and Hydrology.
|
Exploration done by other parties
|
• Acknowledgment and
appraisal of exploration by other parties.
|
Etruscan Resources Inc explored Tabakoroni during 2002-2003 by
auger, aircore, RC and diamond drill hole tails. The Tabakoroni
area was previously explored by BHP (1988-1990) and Barrick Gold
(1990) by auger, pits, trenches, RAB and diamond core
drilling.
|
Geology
|
• Deposit type, geological
setting and style of mineralisation.
|
The Tabakoroni deposit is hosted in upright tightly folded
greenstone rocks of the Syama Formation, comprising interbedded
basalt and sediment units, and an overlying complex sequence of
deep marine and turbiditic sediments. The sequence overlying the
basalts contains interbedded carbonaceous units (silts and shales)
that are preferentially deformed, and which form the Tabakoroni
Main Shear Zone (TMSZ) that lies along the approximate contact of
the greenstone-sediment sequence. Gold mineralisation occurs within
the TMSZ associated with quartz vein stockworks and stylolitic
quartz reefs.
|
Drill hole Information
|
• A summary of all
information material to the understanding of the exploration
results including a tabulation of the following information for all
Material drill holes:
o easting and northing of the
drill hole collar
o elevation or RL (Reduced
Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole
collar
o dip and azimuth of the
hole
o down hole length and
interception depth
o Whole
length.
• If the exclusion of this
information is justified on the basis that the information is not
Material and this exclusion does not detract from the understanding
of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why this
is the case.
|
All information, including easting, northing, elevation, dip,
azimuth, coordinate system, drill hole length, intercept length and
depth are measured and recorded in UTM Zone 29 WGS84.
The Syama belt is mostly located
on the Tengrela 1/200,000 topo sheet (Sheet NC
29-XVIII).
The Tabakoroni local grid has been
tied to the UTM Zone 29 WGS84 co-ordinate system.
Spectrum Survey and Mapping from
Australia established survey control at Tabakoroni using AusPos
online processing to obtain an accurate UTM Zone 29 (WGS84) and
'above geoid' RL for the origin of the survey control
points.
Accuracy of the survey
measurements is considered to meet acceptable industry
standards.
Drill hole information has been
tabulated for this release in the intercepts table of the
accompanying text.
For completeness the following
information about the drill holes is provided:
·
Easting, Northing and RL of the drill hole collars are
measured and recorded in UTM Zone 29 (WGS84).
·
Dip is the inclination of the drill hole from horizontal. A
drill hole drilled at -60° is 60° from the horizontal.
·
Down hole length is the distance down the inclination of the
hole and is measured as the distance from the horizontal to end of
hole.
·
Intercept depth is the distance from the start of the hole
down the inclination of the hole to the depth of interest or
assayed interval of interest.
|
Data aggregation methods
|
• In reporting Exploration
Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or minimum
grade truncations (e.g. cutting of high grades) and cut-off grades
are usually Material and should be stated.
• Where aggregate intercepts
incorporate short lengths of high-grade results and longer lengths
of low-grade results, the procedure used for such aggregation
should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations
should be shown in detail.
• The assumptions used for
any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly
stated.
|
No new exploration results have been reported in this
release.
Metal equivalent values are not
used in reporting.
|
Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept
lengths
|
• These relationships are
particularly important in the reporting of Exploration
Results.
• If the geometry of the
mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is known, its
nature should be reported.
• If it is not known and only
the down hole lengths
are reported, there should be a clear statement to this effect
(e.g. 'down hole length, true width not known').
|
The majority of the Tabakoroni mineralisation is vertical. There is
one domain which dips at 45o to the west.
The majority of the drill holes
are planned at a general inclination of ‑60 degrees east and as
close to perpendicular to the ore zone as possible.
At the angle of the drill holes
and the dip of the ore zones, the reported intercepts will be
slightly more than true width.
|
Diagrams
|
• Appropriate maps and
sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be
included for any significant discovery being reported These should
include, but not be limited to
a plan view of drill hole collar locations and appropriate
sectional views.
|
Relevant maps, diagrams and tabulations are included in the body of
text.
|
Balanced reporting
|
• Where comprehensive
reporting of all Exploration Results is not practicable,
representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or widths
should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration
Results.
|
Mineral Resources are being reported in this
announcement.
No new exploration results have
been reported in this release.
|
Other substantive exploration data
|
• Other exploration data, if
meaningful and material, should
be reported including (but not limited to): geological
observations; geophysical survey results; geochemical survey
results; bulk samples - size and method of treatment; metallurgical
test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock
characteristics; potential deleterious
or contaminating substances.
|
No geophysical and geochemical data or any additional exploration
information has been reported in this release,
as they are not deemed relevant to the release.
|
Further work
|
• The nature and scale of
planned further work (e.g. tests
for lateral extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out
drilling).
• Diagrams clearly
highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main
geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this
information is not commercially sensitive.
|
Depth extension drilling is planned to test the down-dip potential
of the Tabakoroni ore body at depth, and beneath the current limit
of drilling.
|
|
|
| |
Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE
EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Database integrity
|
• Measures taken to ensure
that data has not been corrupted
by, for example, transcription or keying errors, between its
initial collection and its use for Mineral Resource estimation
purposes.
• Data validation procedures
used.
|
Data has been compiled into a relational SQL database; the setup of
this database precludes the loading of data which do not meet the
required validation protocols. The data is managed using DataShed©
drill hole management software using SQL database techniques.
Validation checks are conducted using SQL and DataShed© relational
database standards. Data has also been checked against original
hard copies for 100% of the data, and where possible, loaded from
original data sources.
Resolute completed the following
basic validation checks on the data
supplied prior to resource estimation:
• Drill holes with overlapping sample intervals.
• Sample intervals with no assay data or duplicate
records.
• Assay grade ranges.
• Collar coordinate ranges.
• Valid hole orientation data.
There are no significant issues
identified with the data.
|
Site visits
|
• Comment on any site visits
undertaken by the Competent Person and the outcome of those
visits.
• If no site visits have been
undertaken indicate why this is
the case.
|
Mrs Susan Havlin, an employee of Snowden Optiro Pty Ltd and a
Member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy is
the Competent Person who has visited this site in February and
October 2019.
All aspects of drilling, sampling
and mining are considered by the Competent Persons to be of a high
industry standard.
|
Geological
interpretation
|
• Confidence in (or
conversely, the uncertainty of) the geological interpretation of
the mineral deposit.
• Nature of the data used and
of any assumptions made.
• The effect, if any, of
alternative interpretations on Mineral Resource
estimation.
• The use of geology in
guiding and controlling Mineral Resource
estimation.
• The factors affecting
continuity both of grade and geology.
|
The digital database used for the interpretation included logged
intervals for the key stratigraphic zones of Tabakoroni. Detailed
geological logs were available in hardcopy and digital and reviewed
where necessary.
There is a high level of
confidence for the interpretation of the Tabakoroni Main Shear Zone
(TMSZ) due to the close-spaced grade control drilling at surface
and the confirmation of the position in the current oxide pits.
Since an independent structural model was created there is high
level of confidence in the geological interpretation of the minor
lodes adjacent to the TMSZ.
Wireframes used to constrain the
estimation are based on drill hole intercepts and geological
boundaries. All wireframes at Tabakoroni have been constructed to a
1g/t Au cut-off grade for shape consistency.
The mineralisation in the TMSZ is
generally quite consistent and drill intercepts clearly define the
shape of the mineralised zones with limited options for large scale
alternate interpretations.
|
Dimensions
|
• The extent and variability
of the Mineral Resource expressed
as length (along strike or otherwise), plan width, and depth
below surface to the upper and lower limits of the Mineral
Resource.
|
The mineral resource at Tabakoroni comprises four individual
domains. The main zone is the TMSZ, which extends for approximately
1,800 metres along strike; the sub-vertical dipping gold
mineralised zone width varies between 1.5 and 15 metres, with an
average thickness of 5 metres. The Mineral Resource is limited in
depth by drilling, which extends from surface to a maximum depth of
approximately 450 metres vertically.
There is a zone parallel to the TMSZ which is generally at depth
and not as consistent; this is dominantly in the central part of
the deposit. The northeast (NE) domain is a zone which is striking
at 20° and is sub vertical in the north of the deposit. The
southern lode is shallow westerly-dipping lodes in the southern and
central portion of the deposit. The whole of the Tabakoroni
deposit, including domains additional to the TMSZ, extends for 450
metres in the horizontal plane.
|
Estimation and modelling techniques
|
• The nature and
appropriateness of the estimation technique(s) applied and key
assumptions, including treatment of extreme grade values,
domaining, interpolation parameters and maximum distance of
extrapolation from data points. If a computer assisted estimation
method was chosen include a description of computer software and
parameters used.
• The availability of check
estimates, previous estimates and/or mine production records and
whether the Mineral Resource estimate takes appropriate account of
such data.
• The assumptions made
regarding recovery of by- products.
• Estimation of deleterious
elements or other non-grade variables of economic significance
(e.g. sulphur for acid mine drainage
characterization).
• In the case of block model
interpolation, the block size in relation to the average sample
spacing and the search employed.
• In the case of block model
interpolation, the block size in relation to the average sample
spacing and the search employed.
• Any assumptions behind
modelling of selective mining units.
• Any assumptions about
correlation between variables.
• Description of how the
geological interpretation was used to control the resource
estimates.
• Discussion of basis for
using or not using grade cutting or capping.
• The process of validation,
the checking process used, the comparison of model data to drill
hole data, and use of reconciliation data if
available.
|
Estimation was completed in
Datamine Studio RM using an Ordinary Kriged model to estimate the
gold grade. Grades were estimated into parent block of 5 mE
by 10 mN by 5 mRL with sub- celling down to 1mE by 2 mN by 1 mRL
was employed for resolution of the mineralisation boundaries as
defined by wireframes. The drill spacing at Tabakoroni varies
from 12.5 by 12.5 metres for grade control to between 25 and 50
metres for the exploration holes.
Drillhole sample data was flagged
using domain codes generated from three-dimensional mineralisation
domains. The grade control samples and exploration samples were
composited to 1 metre intervals.
Variogram orientations were
largely controlled by the strike of the mineralisation and downhole
variography. Variograms for estimation purposes were
determined for each domain.
Kriging neighbourhood analysis was
performed to optimise the block size, sample numbers and
discretisation levels with the goal of minimising conditional bias
in the gold grade estimates.
Mineralisation domains were
treated as hard boundaries in the estimation process while
oxidation surfaces were treated as soft boundaries for gold,
sulphide sulphur and organic carbon. A hard boundary was
utilised in the estimation of arsenic between fresh material and
transitional material following a boundary analysis
review.
Three search passes were used,
with the first search pass set to the range of the variogram for
each element. A minimum of 8 and a maximum of 30 samples were
used. The search stayed the same for the second pass but was
increased by a factor of 2 for the third and final pass. The
minimum number of samples was reduced to 6 for the second pass and
4 for the third pass.
No deleterious elements were found
in the ore.
No selective mining units have
been assumed.
Top cuts were applied to reduce
the variability of the data and to remove the outliers.
The estimated block model grades
were visually validated against the input drillhole data and
comparisons were carried out against the drillhole data and by
northing and elevation slices. Global comparison between the
input data and the block grades for each variable is considered
acceptable (±10%).
Comparison with the mine
production to date was carried out and was within an acceptable
limit.
|
Moisture
|
• Whether the tonnages are
estimated on a dry basis or with natural moisture, and the method
of determination of the moisture content.
|
All tonnages have been estimated on a dry basis.
|
Cut-off parameters
|
• The basis of the adopted
cut-off grade(s) or quality parameters applied.
|
Mineral Resources for open pit extraction have been reported at a 1
g/t Au grade cut-off and above a US$2000/oz optimised shell.
The Mineral Resources for underground mining are undiluted and the
mineralised blocks (within the mineralisation wireframes) have been
reported within MSO wireframes created at US$2,000/oz which is
equivalent to 1.75 g/t Au cut-off grade.
|
Mining factors
or assumptions
|
· Assumptions made regarding
possible mining methods, minimum mining dimensions and internal
(or, if applicable, external) mining dilution. It is always
necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable
prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider potential
mining methods, but the assumptions made regarding mining methods
and parameters when estimating Mineral Resources may not always be
rigorous. Where this is the case, this should be reported with an
explanation of the basis of the mining assumptions made.
|
A Pre-Feasibility study determined the mining method would be by
long hole open stoping. No Mineral Resource margin (external)
dilution has been modelled. A minimum stope dip of
30 degrees on the footwall was applied. More rigorous mining
assumptions and parameters will be applied during the conversion to
Ore Reserves.
|
Metallurgical factors or assumptions
|
• The basis for assumptions or predictions regarding metallurgical
amenability. It is always necessary as part of the process of
determining reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction
to consider potential metallurgical methods, but the assumptions
regarding metallurgical treatment processes and parameters made
when reporting Mineral Resources may not always be rigorous. Where
this is the case, this should be reported with an explanation of
the basis of the metallurgical assumptions made.
|
No metallurgical factors or assumptions have been made during the
resource estimation process as these will be addressed during the
conversion to Ore Reserves.
|
Environmental factors
or assumptions
|
· Assumptions made regarding
possible waste and process residue disposal options. It is always
necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable
prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider the
potential environmental impacts of the mining and processing
operation. While at this stage the determination of potential
environmental impacts, particularly for a green fields project, may
not always be well advanced, the status of early consideration of
these potential environmental impacts should be reported. Where
these aspects have not been considered this should be reported with
an explanation of the environmental assumptions
made.
|
It is a requirement of Decree No.03-594/P-RM of 31 December 2003 of
Malian law that an Environmental and Social Impact Study (Étude
d'Impact Environmental et Social - EIES) must be undertaken to
update the potential environmental and social impacts of the mine's
redevelopment. The EIES for the Syama Gold Mine (including
Tabakoroni) was approved in November 2007 and an Environment Permit
(07- 0054/MEA - SG) was issued by the Ministry of Environment and
Sanitation on 22 November 2007. The Ministry of Environment
conducts timely reviews of the Syama Gold Mine to ensure that
Company maintains compliance with the EIES guidelines.
At Syama and Tabakoroni, there are
three key practices for disposal of wastes and residues namely,
stacking of waste rock from open pit mining; storage of tailings
from mineral processes; and "tall-stack dispersion" of sulphur
dioxide from the roasting of gold bearing concentrate. All waste
disposal practices are in accordance with the guidelines in the
EIES.
The Environmental and Social
Impact Study - "Société des Mines de Syama, Syama Gold Mine, Mali",
dated 2007 indicated there was minimal potential for acid mine
drainage from waste rock due to the elevated carbonate content
which buffers a potential acid generation. Resolute maintains a
plan for progressive rehabilitation of waste rock landforms as part
of ongoing mine development and waste rock dumping.
The landform of tailings impoundments does not
have a net acid generating potential. The largest volume is
flotation tailings where the sulphide minerals have already been
removed from the host rock. Its mineralogy includes carbonates
which further buffer any acid-formation potential from sulphides
that may also be present.
Cyanide levels in the
leached-calcine tailings are typically less than 50 ppm in the weak
acid dissociable form. Groundwater away from the tailings landform
is intercepted by trenches and sump pumps.
Sulphur dioxide is generated from the roasting of gold concentrate
so that gold can be extracted and refined. Tall-Stack "dispersion"
of the sulphur dioxide emission is monitored continuously.
Prevailing weather and dissipation of the sulphur dioxide is
modelled daily to predict the need to pause the roasting process to
meet the air quality criteria set out in the Environmental and
Social Impact Study.
|
Bulk density
|
· Whether assumed or
determined. If assumed, the basis for the assumptions. If
determined, the method used, whether wet or dry, the frequency of
the measurements, the nature, size and representativeness of the
samples.
· The bulk density for bulk
material must have been measured by methods that adequately account
for void spaces (vugs, porosity, etc), moisture and differences
between rock and alteration zones within the
deposit.
· Discuss assumptions for bulk
density estimates used in the evaluation process of the different
materials.
|
Site personnel have completed numerous bulk density comparative
estimates on HQ drill core to assess variability using the
Archimedes method of dry weight versus weight in water. This method
was used for 76% of the bulk density measurements. The other 34% is
by unknown method.
On the basis of the data collected
the following SG estimates were applied to the model by weathering
type:
· Oxide
2.12 t/m3
· Transitional 2.38 t/m3
· Fresh 2.72
t/m3
|
Classification
|
• The basis for the
classification of the Mineral Resources into varying confidence
categories.
• Whether appropriate account
has been taken of all relevant factors (i.e. relative confidence in
tonnage/grade estimations, reliability of input data, confidence in
continuity of geology and metal values, quality, quantity and
distribution of the data).
• Whether the result
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
|
The Measured Mineral Resource classification is
based on good confidence in the geology and gold grade continuity
with 12.5 m x 12.5 m spaced drillhole density in the central part
of the deposit.
The Indicated Mineral Resource
classification is based on good confidence in the geology and gold
grade continuity with less than 50 m x 50 m spaced drillhole
density in the central part of the deposit.
The Inferred Mineral Resource
classification is applied to extensions of mineralised zones on the
margins of the deposit where drill spacing is more than 50 m x 50 m
and the extents of mineralisation at depth.
The validation of the block model
has confirmed satisfactory correlation of the input data to the
estimated grades and reproduction of data trends.
The Mineral Resource estimate
appropriately reflects the view of the Competent
Persons.
|
Audits or reviews
|
• The results of any audits
or reviews of Mineral Resource estimates.
|
The Mineral Resource has been
audited internally and in conjunction with resource consultants at
Snowden Optiro Pty Ltd as part of the routine validation process.
There has been an external review of the Mineral Resource
estimation completed by Cube Consulting Pty Ltd in February
2022.
|
Discussion of relative
accuracy/ confidence
|
• Where appropriate a
statement of the relative accuracy and confidence level in the
Mineral Resource estimate using an approach or procedure deemed
appropriate by the Competent Person. For example, the application
of statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify the
relative accuracy of the resource within stated confidence limits,
or, if such an approach is not deemed appropriate, a qualitative
discussion of the factors that could affect the relative accuracy
and confidence of
the estimate.
• The statement should
specify whether it relates to global or local estimates, and, if
local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be relevant to
technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should include
assumptions made and the procedures used.
• These statements of
relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate should be compared
with production data, where available.
|
The relative accuracy of the Mineral Resource estimate is reflected
in the reporting of Measured, Indicated and Inferred resource
categories as defined by 2012 JORC Code guidelines.
The estimate is considered to be
relevant to an annual level of reporting of tonnage and
grade.
The estimation was compared with
the production history at Tabakoroni and it is within 15%, which is
within the limits for the relevant classifications.
|
Section 4 Estimation and Reporting of Ore Reserves
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE
EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Mineral Resource estimate for conversion to
Ore Reserves
|
• Description of the Mineral
Resource estimate used as
a basis for the conversion to an Ore Reserve.
• Clear statement as to
whether the Mineral Resources are reported additional to, or
inclusive of, the
Ore Reserve.
|
The Ore Reserves are based on the Mineral Resource estimate
detailed in the ASX release dated December 2021, prepared by
Optiro Pty Ltd. The resource was reported above a 1.75 g/t
gold grade cut-off, based on an equivalent gold price of
US$2,000/oz and an underground mining method utilising long hole
stoping mining methods with paste fill. Material below
this cut-off is not included in the Mineral
Resource.
Ore Reserves are the material
reported as a sub-set of the resource, that which can be extracted
from the mine and processed with an economically acceptable
outcome. The resource is depleted for open pit material
already mined and future cut back planned for Taba
North.
Mineral Resources are reported
inclusive of Ore Reserves.
|
|
Site visits
|
• Comment on any site visits
undertaken by the Competent Person and the outcome of those
visits.
• If no site visits have been
undertaken indicate why this
is the case.
|
The Competent Person, Mr Gito Patani, is a full-time employee of
Resolute Mining Ltd and a Member of the Australasian Institute of
Mining and Metallurgy. Regular site visit to the project area was
conducted during the year 2023 and weekly contact with site teams
was maintained throughout the period. These site visits help to
validate technical and operating assumptions used in the
preparation of this ore reserves
The site visit reviewed the
project site and proposed portal location in the mined out Namakan
Pit western wall, a review of current operations at both Syama and
Tabakoroni, existing open pit infrastructure available for
immediate underground use, a review of selected drill core and
various meetings were held with site personnel and key stakeholders
to the study. A pit wall failure exist in the eastern wall of the
Namakan pit. This failure was monitored since the occurrence
through the last couple of wet season and have stabilised at
its natural angle of repose and does not pose further material risk
to the proposed underground portal location.
|
|
Study status
|
• The type and level of study
undertaken to enable Mineral Resources to be converted to Ore
Reserves.
• The Code requires that a
study to at least Pre-Feasibility Study level has been undertaken
to convert Mineral Resources to Ore Reserves. Such studies will
have been carried out and will have determined a mine plan that is
technically achievable and economically viable, and that material
Modifying Factors have been considered.
|
A Pre-Feasibility Study was completed on Tabakoroni Underground in
late 2020.
Tabakoroni open pit has been in
continuous mining operation since August 2018. During this
time the performance of the open pit has shown a positive
reconciliation between mineral resources and gold production and
delivered positive cashflows. Data from the current open pit
operations which also applies to the intended underground
operation, such as existing infrastructure and ore haulage cost,
were used as part of the underground study. The open pit
reconciliation data was not considered as it relates to oxide ore
only and the underground will focus on fresh ore only.
No underground operations have
been undertaken at Tabakoroni yet. However, underground
operations and processing of similar underground material have been
undertaken for several years at the nearby Syama Mine where the
Tabakoroni Underground ore will also be processed under the current
toll treatment agreement, providing actual data to further support
the Tabakoroni study assumptions.
Primary contributors to the study
were:
· Optiro
Pty Ltd - Mineral Resources
· Solid
Geology Pty Ltd - Structural Model
· AMC
Consultants - mining geotechnical study and portal
review
· Piteau
- dewatering
· Digby
Wells - environmental and social impact assessment
· Outotec - backfill, concentrate roasting, floatation
plant
· Osprey
- security assessment
· Practara - economic evaluation
· ALS -
metallurgical variability testing
·
Resolute Mining Ltd - mine design and scheduling,
processing and overall study management
|
|
Cut-off
parameters
|
• The basis of the cut-off
grade(s) or quality
parameters applied.
|
A marginal cut-off grade (COG) of 2.5 g/t gold has been applied for
Tabakoroni Underground. This is based on long hole open
stoping with paste fill at a gold price of U$1,650/oz,
metallurgical recovery of 78%, and includes royalties of
6%.
Individual underground zones and
levels were further tested to confirm each area achieves the
required financial returns to offset the capital investment
required to access that zone or level. Sub-economical areas were
removed from the reserves.
|
|
Mining factors or assumptions
|
· The method and assumptions
used as reported in the Pre-Feasibility or Feasibility Study to
convert the Mineral Resource to an Ore Reserve (i.e. either by
application of appropriate factors by optimization or by
preliminary or detailed design).
· The choice, nature and
appropriateness
of the selected mining method(s) and other mining parameters
including associated design issues such as pre-strip, access,
etc.
· The assumptions made
regarding geotechnical parameters (e.g. pit slopes, stope sizes,
etc.), grade control and pre-production drilling.
· The major assumptions made
and Mineral Resource model used for pit and stope optimization (if
appropriate).
· The mining dilution factors
used.
· The mining recovery factors
used.
· Any minimum mining widths
used.
· The manner in which
Inferred Mineral Resources are utilized in mining studies and the
sensitivity of the outcome to their inclusion.
· The infrastructure
requirements of the selected mining methods.
|
The Tabakoroni mineralisation is mostly steeply dipping, between 80
to 90°, with an average width of 4m to 15m. Some mineralisation is
located parallel to, and adjacent to the main Tabakoroni
mineralisation. These shallower dipping zones are located
predominantly in a competent basalt zone, ranging in dip between
40° and 80°, with an average width of 2m to 10m.
Long hole open stoping is
considered the most suitable mining method to extract the
underground deposit. Long term support will be providing by
backfilling the stopes with cemented paste in the main mineralised
zone, create by adding binder to a large supply of highly weathered
oxide waste already available on site from the previous open pit
mines. Shallower dipping zones in the competent basalt zones will
also use open stoping with pillars, where appropriate.
Longitudinal sub-level caving and
open stoping with rock fill were also reviewed but not considered
appropriate methods. The mineralisation is too long and
narrow to use sub-level caving and it would result in caving
breaking through into the current open pit, increasing inrush risk
for the underground. Paste fill was selected over waste fill
as it provides a better cashflow with a top-down mining method,
provides improved stability and in general there is a lack of
suitable fresh rock to use as backfill material. It also improves
the extraction of parallel mineralised zones which was not possible
with open stopes and loose rock fill.
The reported Ore Reserve estimates
for Tabakoroni are based on Deswik.SO (Mineable Shape Optimiser /
MSO) results, followed by detailed mine design in Deswik.CAD and
activity-based task and resource scheduling in Deswik.Sched.
Economic modelling was performed in consultation with an external
financial consultant experienced in Malian mining economic
modelling.
Stope dilution is considered
separately for hangingwall and footwall conditions as part of the
MSO optimisation. Equivalent Linear Overbreak Slough (ELOS)
is applied based on geotechnical domaining, resulting in 0.5 m
dilution in competent (basalt) ground to 2.0 m in poor, highly
structured zones. The average dilution considered is 0.5 to
1.0 m, applied individually to both hangingwall and footwall
conditions. A global mine recovery of 90% was applied.
Minimum Mining Width used was 3.0
m, but average stoping widths range between 4.5 m and 10.0 m. Level
spacings are selected at 20 m vertical, floor to floor.
Stope lengths of 10 m to 50 m are recommended based on the
geotechnical modelling and chosen level spacing. The study
conservatively limited stope lengths to 20 m, which will be
further optimised during actual operations. For the shallower
dipping stopes a minimum footwall dip of 40° was selected to ensure
blasted material can be moved effectively to the drawpoint for
loading during production.
Costs are based on existing
contract mining rates from the nearby Syama Operation with a
contract proposal provided for the study to account for potential
changes expected at Tabakoroni, contract haulage rates to the Syama
process plant from the current Tabakoroni open pit operation,
processing costs are based on the current Syama process plant and
site costs which are understood with a high degree of accuracy from
current operations.
Equipment for the underground were
selected considering the selected mining method, planned production
rate, existing experience and equipment in operation at Syama
Underground. Loading will be done by 21 tonne loaders from the
development headings and stopes and hauled by 63 t trucks to
surface via a decline. From surface stockpiles ore will be hauled
to the process plant at Syama using the current open pit truck
haulage fleet and waste will dumped directly onto the existing open
pit waste dumps.
The mine plan includes an
insignificant amount of Inferred Resources, which is not material
to the outcome of the Ore Reserves. Inferred Resources were
considered when positioning life of mine infrastructure but does
not materially influence the outcome of the current
reserves.
Existing open pit infrastructure
and a dedicated haul road to Syama is available for immediate use
by the underground operation. The only additional
infrastructure consists of:
· a
power shed to house diesel generators for power generation.
Existing diesel generators will be relocated from the current Syama
operation as part of their power upgrades and the power shed is
just for weather protection.
· paste
plant for paste fill generation
· explosives magazine (open pit operations did minimal blasting
and did not establish an explosive magazine)
· underground primary ventilation fans
· upgraded security control facilities
· minor
fit-out to the existing open pit offices and workshops to comply
with underground requirements (change house, lamp room,
etc)
· float circuit modifications to allow the existing Syama Oxide
plant to process sulphide ore
|
|
Metallurgical factors
or assumptions
|
• The metallurgical process
proposed and the appropriateness of that process to the style of
mineralization.
• Whether the metallurgical
process is well-tested technology or novel in
nature.
• The nature, amount and
representativeness of metallurgical test work undertaken, the
nature of the metallurgical domaining applied and the corresponding
metallurgical recovery factors applied.
• Any assumptions or
allowances made for deleterious elements.
• The existence of any bulk
sample or pilot scale test work and the degree to which such
samples are considered representative of the ore body as a
whole.
• For minerals that are
defined by a specification, has the ore reserve estimation been
based on the appropriate mineralogy to meet the
specifications?
|
Metallurgical test work was conducted on multiple samples,
representative of the spatial and mineralogical distribution of the
deposit. The tests indicated that, similarly to the Syama
ore, the Tabakoroni ore can be double refractory in nature due to
locking of gold within the sulphides and organic carbon.
Processing of the ore will be similar to that of the Syama sulphide
circuit which has been in operation for several years and is well
understood, consisting of the following stages:
· Crushing and grinding utilising the existing oxide process
plant infrastructure
· Gravity gold recovery utilising the existing oxide gravity
circuit
· Flotation to produce a sulphide rich concentrate through a new
flotation circuit, prior to blending with the current Syama
concentrate circuit for further:
· Concentrate thickening
· Roasting, followed by calcine quench and wash
· Carbon-in-leach (CIL)
· Tailings disposal
The oxide crushing and grinding
circuit has an oxide capacity of 1.6 Mtpa, with a modelled
sulphide throughput capacity of up to 1.0 Mtpa. The
Syama roaster, CIL circuit and tailings storage facility has enough
capacity to process the additional concentrate.
A number of metallurgical test
work programmes have been conducted on a range of Tabakoroni
ore samples to date. The most recent variability test
programme, conducted as part of the PFS, focussed on optimising the
flowsheet to then assess the metallurgical performance of the
various mineralised domains to be encountered. A total gold
recovery of 78% has been assumed based on test results to
date. This is in line with similar ore being processed at
Syama.
|
|
Environmental
|
• The status of studies of
potential environmental impacts of the mining and processing
operation. Details of waste rock characterization and the
consideration of potential sites, status of design options
considered and, where applicable, the status of approvals for
process residue storage and waste dumps should be
reported.
|
The Tabakoroni mining area and haul road to Syama are covered under
current environmental approval and permitting.
An active waste rock
characterisation program has been put in place for Tabakoroni open
pit operation. Underground waste will be co-disposed
underground with paste fill where possible, with the remainder
being stored on the current open pit waste dump under the current
waste rock management protocols to prevent potentially acid forming
waste rock from contaminating water sources. The current waste dump
has much more space than is required by the underground
operation.
Ore Reserves from Tabakoroni will
be processed at Syama and tailings storage will be in pit tailings
area approved in the current ESIA. Routine progress on the
monitoring is reported to government and at stakeholder meetings in
concert with routine inspections by government
representatives.
Arsenic is naturally occurring in
the Tabakoroni mineralisation. A groundwater characterisation
programme was conducted as part of the ESIA submission and did not
identify any adverse impacts on water being discharged to the
environment.
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|
Infrastructure
|
· The existence of appropriate
infrastructure: availability of land for plant development, power,
water, transportation (particularly for bulk commodities), labour,
accommodation; or the ease with which the infrastructure can be
provided, or accessed.
|
All required mining infrastructure is already in place at the
Tabakoroni open pit mine and processing and camp facilities at
Syama Mine, except for the additions required specifically for the
Tabakoroni underground, consisting of:
· a
power shed to house diesel generators for power generation.
Existing diesel generators will be relocated from the current Syama
operation as part of their power upgrades.
· paste
plant for paste fill generation
· explosives magazine
· upgraded security control facilities
· minor
fit-out to the existing open pit offices and workshops to comply
with underground requirements, such as change rooms and lamp
rooms
· float
circuit modifications to allow the existing Syama Oxide plant to
process Tabakoroni sulphide ore
Tabakoroni is linked to the Syama
Mine through a purpose built 35 km haul road. The Syama
Mine is located near the two major towns of Kadiola and
Sikasso. Kadiola, 55km southeast, is the regional capital
while Sikasso, approximately 85 km to the northeast, is the second
largest city in Mali and located close to the border with Burkina
Faso.
Access is via formed gravel road
off the sealed Sikasso to Côte d'Ivoire highway through Kadiola,
and then from Fourou to site. Most consumables and supplies
use this route as it can be approached either from Côte d'Ivoire
through the border post at Zegoua or alternatively from Burkina
Faso and Togo through Sikasso. The road north through Bananso
to Farakala, on the main highway from Bamako to Sikasso, provides
an alternate and shorter route to Bamako. This road is
generally impassable during the wet season when the low level
"bridge" at Bananso is covered with water.
The 70km section of road from
Kadiola to the site was upgraded for the Syama Mine. In
addition to the current open pit infrastructure left behind by open
pit operations at Tabakoroni, the Syama Mine provides access to
administration buildings, plant site buildings and accommodation
for housing expatriate and senior national staff.
Tabakoroni site is serviced
through a local telecommunications provider Orange. Provision
is made in the study to allow have a dedicated link to Syama Mine,
from where two Internet and mobile telecommunications providers
(Sotelma & Orange) are available, in addition to a point to
point satellite connection to Perth.
|
|
Costs
|
· The derivation of, or
assumptions made, regarding projected capital costs in the
study.
· The methodology used to
estimate operating costs.
· Allowances made for the
content of deleterious elements.
· The derivation of
assumptions made of metal or commodity price(s), for the principal
minerals and co- products.
· The source of exchange rates
used in the study.
· Derivation of transportation
charges.
· The basis for forecasting or
source of treatment and refining charges, penalties for failure to
meet specification, etc.
· The allowances made for
royalties payable, both Government and private.
|
Cost estimates are based mostly on existing operations at Syama and
Tabakoroni, with modifications where identified in the study.
Current operations, and existing costs were used for:
· ore
haulage to Syama for processing under the current open pit haulage
contract
· owner-operated processing, general and administration costs
are shared between the oxide plant and the sulphide plant at Syama,
which processes the current Syama UG orebody. These costs are well
understood, and minor changes were included based on Tabakoroni
specific metallurgical variability test work results
· power
generation cost utilising the current Syama diesel
generators
· development and production rates are based on the current
Syama mining contract schedule of rates, with updated quotes
provided by the contractor as required for mining method changes
expected at Tabakaroni
· ground
support consumables, fuel, explosives, bulk cement based on current
Syama mining contract
· mine
closure costs (existing open pit component)
· PFS
level cost estimates were calculated for:
· paste
fill cost - based on locally supplied bulk cement prices and an
independent paste fill study to determine consumption
rate
· environmental and mine closure costs specific to
underground
The oxide plant produces gold doré
(without problematic deleterious elements) that is subsequently
refined offsite. Refining costs are allowed for as per current
Syama Mine, but are not material.
Ad valorem Government royalties of
6% are payable on gold production.
|
|
Revenue factors
|
• The derivation of, or
assumptions made regarding revenue factors including head grade,
metal or commodity price(s) exchange rates, transportation and
treatment charges, penalties, net smelter returns,
etc.
• The derivation of
assumptions made of metal or commodity price(s), for the principal
metals, minerals and co-products.
|
A gold price of US$1,650/oz formed the basis of the Ore Reserves.
Gold price used for planning purposes is from consensus forecasts
provided by external corporate advisers.
No penalties are incurred, nor is
any revenue received from co-products.
|
|
Market assessment
|
• The demand, supply and
stock situation for the particular commodity, consumption trends
and factors likely to affect supply and demand into the
future.
• A customer and competitor
analysis along with the identification of likely market windows for
the product.
• Price and volume forecasts
and the basis for these forecasts.
• For industrial minerals the
customer specification, testing and acceptance requirements prior
to a supply contract.
|
The market for gold is robust with prevailing gold price being well
above US$1,650/oz.
Supply and demand are not
considered material to the Ore Reserve calculations.
|
|
Economic
|
• The inputs to the economic
analysis to produce the net present value (NPV) in the study, the
source and confidence of these economic inputs including estimated
inflation, discount rate, etc.
• NPV ranges and sensitivity
to variations in the significant assumptions and
inputs.
|
The financial evaluation undertaken as part of the evaluation
indicated a positive net present value (NPV) at a 7% annual
discount rate. The following major economic inputs were
used:
· Costs
as previous described
· Gold
price of US$1650/oz
· Royalties of 6%
· Effective tax rate of 25% (Corporate tax rate of 30% with 5%
discount provided by the Malian government to
Tabakoroni)
· Discount rate of 7% per annum for real, post-tax cash
flows.
|
|
Social
|
• The status of agreements
with key stakeholders and matters leading to social license to
operate.
|
Tabakoroni falls under the SOMIFI exploitation permit and is
managed by SOMISY under Management and Toll Treatment agreements
lodged with the Government of Mali.
It is the intention to encourage
economic development within the local community. During the
operation of Tabakoroni open pit focus has been on improving
farming and health care plus providing access to water; this will
continue to remain a focus.
The Syama Mine Community
Consultative Committee, which includes representation from
Tabakoroni and the villages adjacent to the Syama Satellites, was
established in February 2001 with representatives from local
villages, the Malian Government and SOMISY. Since April 2004
the Committee has met regularly as a communication forum and to
address community issues and assist with community project
proposals; it continues to meet on the first or second Tuesday of
each month. Initial consultation as part of the underground updates
to the ESIA indicated no major concerns with the underground
operation.
|
|
Other
|
• To the extent relevant, the
impact of the following on the project and/or on the estimation and
classification of the Ore Reserves:
• Any identified material
naturally occurring risks.
• The status of material
legal agreements and marketing arrangements.
• The status of governmental
agreements and approvals critical to the viability of the project,
such as mineral tenement status, and government and statutory
approvals. There must be reasonable grounds to expect that all
necessary Government approvals will be received within the
timeframes anticipated in the Pre-Feasibility or Feasibility study.
Highlight and discuss the materiality of any unresolved matter that
is dependent on a third party on which extraction of the reserve is
contingent.
|
All current government agreements and approvals are in good
standing and no anticipated changes are expected. Political
instability is a potential risk in Mali, but the owner has many
years operating experience in this environment through the current
Syama and Tabakoroni operations. The current Malian government is
supportive of mining operations and the current Syama and
Tabakoroni operations are in good standing with the
authorities. There are no current unresolved matters
affecting this project.
|
|
Classification
|
• The basis for the
classification of the Ore Reserves into varying confidence
categories.
• Whether the result
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
• The proportion of Probable
Ore Reserves that have been derived from Measured Mineral Resources
(if any).
|
Proved and Probable Ore Reserves were declared based on the
Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources.
The Ore Reserve estimate
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
None of the Measured Mineral
Resource was converted to Proven Ore Reserves. The Measured
Resource component is located below the previous open pit and forms
part of the crown pillar to be extracted at the end of the
underground mine life. Due to the inherent risk of extracting
the crown pillar at a much later stage in the mine's life, it is
appropriate in the Competent Person's opinion to classify this
material as Probable Ore Reserves and not Proved Ore
Reserves.
|
|
Audits or reviews
|
• The results of any audits
or reviews of Ore Reserve estimates.
|
Major parts of the study were completed by external, independent
contributors and were internally reviewed by each contributor prior
to submission to Resolute. These inputs were then further
reviewed by Resolute Corporate and Site operational teams prior to
inclusion in the PFS. The combined PFS and Ore Reserves
output was then internally reviewed, but no external review of the
combine PFS and Ore Reserves has been conducted yet.
|
|
Discussion of relative
accuracy/ confidence
|
• Where appropriate a
statement of the relative accuracy and confidence level in the Ore
Reserve estimate using an approach or procedure deemed appropriate
by the Competent Person. For example, the application of
statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify the relative
accuracy of the reserve within stated confidence limits, or, if
such an approach is not deemed appropriate, a qualitative
discussion of the factors which could affect the relative accuracy
and confidence of the estimate.
• The statement should
specify whether it relates to global or local estimates, and, if
local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be relevant to
technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should include
assumptions made and the procedures used.
• Accuracy and confidence
discussions should extend to specific discussions of any applied
Modifying Factors that may have a material impact on Ore Reserve
viability, or for which there are remaining areas of uncertainty at
the current study stage.
• It is recognized that this
may not be possible or appropriate in all circumstances. These
statements of relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate
should be compared with production data, where available.
|
The relative accuracy and confidence of the Ore Reserve estimate is
inherent in the Ore Reserve Classification.
The mine design and schedule were
prepared to a PFS level of accuracy. Conservative mining modifying
factors were used to account for potential variations in ground and
geotechnical conditions.
The open pit operations had a
slight positive reconciliation, but this was not considered
material to the underground project as the open pit operations only
focused on oxide material, and the underground will be focusing on
fresh, sulphide ore. Reconciliation procedures will be
implemented as part of the underground operation and will be
considered in future Ore Reserve updates.
Costs are at PFS level of
confidence or better due to existing capital infrastructure and
open pit operations at Tabakoroni, and existing underground
operations and processing at Syama, which will be re-used for the
Tabakoroni underground project.
Metallurgical results are in line
with Syama parameters for similar ore, and are consistent between
various test programmes, providing confidence in the assumptions
used for the study.
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Tabakoroni Satellite Deposits - Porphyry Zone
(Splay)
Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Sampling
techniques
|
• Nature and quality of
sampling (e.g. cut channels, random chips, or specific specialised
industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the minerals
under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld
XRF instruments, etc.). These examples should not be taken as
limiting the broad meaning of sampling.
• Include reference to
measures taken to ensure sample representivity and the appropriate
calibration of any measurement tools or systems
used.
• Aspects of the
determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public
Report.
• In cases where 'industry
standard' work has been done this would be relatively simple (e.g.
'reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m samples from
which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire
assay'). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as
where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems.
Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (e.g. submarine
nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information.
|
The samples were collected from reverse circulation (RC) and
diamond core drill holes.
RC samples were collected on 1m
intervals by riffle split (dry) or by scoop (wet), to obtain a
1-3kg sample which was sent to the laboratory for crushing,
splitting and pulverising to provide a 30g charge for
analysis.
Diamond core was sampled at 1m
intervals and cut in half, to provide a 2-4kg sample, which was
sent to the laboratory for crushing, splitting and pulverising to
provide a 30g charge for analysis.
Sampling and sample preparation
protocols are industry standard and are deemed appropriate by the
Competent Person.
|
Drilling techniques
|
• Drill type (e.g. core,
reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air blast, auger,
Bangka, sonic, etc.) and details (e.g. core diameter, triple or
standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other
type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method,
etc.).
|
Drill types used include diamond core of PQ and HQ sizes and
RC.
Core is oriented at 3m down hole
intervals using a Reflex Act II RD Orientation Tool
|
Drill sample recovery
|
• Method of recording and
assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results
assessed.
• Measures taken to maximise
sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the
samples.
• Whether a relationship
exists between sample recovery and grade and whether sample bias
may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse
material.
|
Drill core interval recoveries are measured from core block to core
block using a tape measure.
Appropriate measures are taken to
maximise sample recovery and ensure the representative nature of
the samples.
No apparent relationship is noted
between sample recovery and grade.
|
Logging
|
• Whether core and chip
samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level
of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation,
mining studies and metallurgical studies.
• Whether logging is
qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean, channel,
etc.) photography.
• The total length and
percentage of the relevant intersections logged.
|
Drill holes were geologically logged by geologists for colour,
grainsize, lithology, minerals, alteration and weathering on
geologically-domained intervals.
Geotechnical and structure
orientation data was measured and logged for all diamond core
intervals.
Diamond core was photographed (wet
and dry).
Holes were logged in their
entirety (100%) and this logging was considered reliable and
appropriate.
|
Sub-sampling techniques
and sample preparation
|
• If core, whether cut or
sawn and whether quarter, half or all core taken.
• If non-core, whether
riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc. and whether sampled wet
or dry.
• For all sample types, the
nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation
technique.
• Quality control procedures
adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise representivity of
samples.
• Measures taken to ensure
that the sampling is representative of the in-situ material
collected, including for instance results for field
duplicate/second-half sampling.
• Whether sample sizes are
appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled.
|
Diamond core was sampled at 1m intervals and cut in half to obtain
a 2-4kg sample.
Reverse circulation samples were
collected on 1m intervals by riffle split (dry) or by scoop (wet)
to obtain a 1-3kg sample.
Sample preparation for diamond
core and RC samples includes oven drying, crushing to 10mm,
splitting and pulverising to 85% passing -75µm. These preparation
techniques are deemed to be appropriate to the material being
sampled.
Drill core coarse duplicates were
split by the laboratory after crushing at a rate of 1:20 samples.
Reverse circulation field duplicates were collected by the company
at a rate of 1:20 samples.
Sampling, sample preparation and
quality control protocols are of industry standard and all attempts
were made to ensure an unbiased representative sample was
collected. The methods applied in this process were deemed
appropriate by the Competent Person.
|
Quality of assay data and
laboratory tests
|
• The nature, quality and
appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and
whether the technique is considered partial or
total.
• For geophysical tools,
spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc., the parameters used
in determining the analysis including instrument make and model,
reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation,
etc.
• Nature of quality control
procedures adopted (e.g. standards, blanks, duplicates, external
laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (i.e.
lack of bias) and precision have been established.
|
All samples were dispatched to ALS Bamako for gold analysis by 30g
fire assay fusion with AAS instrument finish (method code Au-AA25).
Over-range results were re-analysed and reported by 30g fire assay
fusion with gravimetric finish (method code Au-GRA21). The
analytical method was appropriate for the style of
mineralisation.
No geophysical tools were used to
determine elemental concentrations.
Quality control (QC) procedures
included the use of certified standards (1:40), non-certified sand
blanks (1:40), diamond core coarse duplicates (1:20) and reverse
circulation field duplicates (1:20).
Laboratory quality control data,
including laboratory standards, blanks, duplicates, repeats, grind
size results and sample weights were also captured into the digital
database.
Analysis of the QC sample assay
results indicates that an acceptable level of accuracy and
precision has been achieved.
|
Verification of sampling
and assaying
|
• The verification of
significant intersections by either independent or alternative
company personnel.
• The use of twinned
holes.
• Documentation of primary
data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage
(physical and electronic) protocols.
• Discuss any adjustment to
assay data.
|
Verification of significant intersections have been completed by
company personnel and the Competent Person.
No drill holes within the resource
area were twinned.
Drill holes were logged into
digital templates with lookup codes, validated and then compiled
into a relational SQL 2012 database using DataShed data management
software. The database has verification protocols which are used to
validate the data entry. The drill hole database is backed up on a
daily basis to the head office server.
Assay result files were reported
by the laboratory in PDF and CSV format and imported into the SQL
database without adjustment or modification.
|
Location of
data points
|
• Accuracy and quality of
surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys),
trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral
Resource estimation.
• Specification of the grid
system used.
• Quality and adequacy of
topographic control.
|
Collar coordinates were picked up in UTM (WGS84) by staff surveyors
using an RTK DGPS with an expected accuracy of ±0.05m; elevations were height above
EGM96 geoid.
Down hole surveys were collected
at intervals between 5m and 30m using either a Reflex EZ-Gyro north
seeking instrument or a Reflex EZ-Trac magnetic instrument in
single shot or multi shot mode. A time-dependent declination was
applied to the magnetic readings to determine UTM
azimuth.
Coordinates and azimuths are
reported in UTM WGS84 Zone 29 North.
Coordinates were translated to
local mine grid using 1 point and rotation.
Local topographic control is via
LIDAR surveys, satellite photography and drone UAV aerial
survey.
|
Data spacing and distribution
|
• Data spacing for reporting
of Exploration Results.
• Whether the data spacing
and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of
geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral
Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and
classifications applied.
• Whether sample compositing
has been applied.
|
Drill hole spacing was sufficient to demonstrate geological and
grade continuity appropriate for a Mineral Resource and the
classifications applied under the 2012 JORC Code.
The appropriateness of the drill
spacing was reviewed by the geological technical team, both on site
and head office. This was also reviewed by the Competent
Person.
Samples were collected on 1m
intervals; no sample compositing is applied during
sampling
|
Orientation of data in relation to geological
structure
|
• Whether the orientation of
sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the
extent to which this is known, considering the deposit
type.
• If the relationship between
the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised
structures is considered to have introduced a sampling bias, this
should be assessed and reported if material.
|
Holes were drilled predominantly perpendicular to mineralised
domains where possible.
No orientation-based sampling bias
has been identified in
the data.
|
Sample security
|
• The measures taken to
ensure sample security.
|
Samples were collected from the drill site and stored on site. All
samples were individually bagged and labelled with unique sample
identifiers, then securely dispatched to the laboratories. All
aspects of sampling and dispatch process were supervised and
tracked by SOMIFI personnel.
|
Audits or reviews
|
• The results of any audits
or reviews of sampling techniques
and data.
|
External audits of procedures indicate protocols are within
industry standards.
|
Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Mineral tenement and land tenure status
|
• Type, reference
name/number, location and ownership including agreements or
material issues with third parties such as joint ventures,
partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests,
historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental
settings.
• The security of the tenure
held at the time of reporting along with any known impediments to
obtaining a licence to operate in the area.
|
Porphyry Zone drilling was completed within the Finkolo-Tabakoroni
Exploitation Licence PE 13/19. Resolute Mining Limited has an 85%
interest in Exploitation Permit PE 13/19, through its Malian
subsidiary, Sociêtê des Mines de Finkolo SA (SOMIFI). The Malian
Government holds a free carried 10% interest in SOMIFI and a free
carried 5% interest is held privately.
The Permits are held in good
standing. Malian mining law provides that all Mineral Resources are
administered by DNGM (Direction Nationale de la Géologie et des
Mines) or National Directorate of Geology and Mines under the
Ministry of Mines, Energy and Hydrology.
|
Exploration done by other parties
|
• Acknowledgment and
appraisal of exploration by other parties.
|
Etruscan Resources Inc explored Tabakoroni during 2002-2003 by
auger, aircore, RC and diamond drill hole tails. The Tabakoroni
area was previously explored by BHP (1988-1990) and Barrick Gold
(1990) by auger, pits, trenches, RAB and diamond core
drilling..
|
Geology
|
• Deposit type, geological
setting and style of mineralisation.
|
The Tabakoroni Porphyry Zone is located on a NNE trending splay of
the NNW oriented Main Tabakoroni Shear Zone.
Host rocks are comprised of
interbedded greywacke and shale with small intrusions of quartz
feldspar phyric dacite porphyry. Ductile shearing affects all
units and is particularly focussed within the shale
units.
Mineralisation occurs as
quartz-pyrite veins and sulphidic shears within shale units.
Visible gold is commonly seen in vein quartz.
The gold mineralisation at the
'Porphyry Zone" is somewhat erratic with more coherent zones
striking NNE and dipping shallowly and steeply west.
|
Drill hole Information
|
• A summary of all
information material to the understanding of the exploration
results including a tabulation of the following information for all
Material drill holes:
o easting and northing of the
drill hole collar
o elevation or RL (Reduced
Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole
collar
o dip and azimuth of the
hole
o down hole length and
interception depth
o Whole
length.
• If the exclusion of this
information is justified on the basis that the information is not
Material and this exclusion does not detract from the understanding
of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why this
is the case.
|
No exploration results have been reported in this
release.
All information, including
easting, northing, elevation, dip, azimuth, coordinate system,
drill hole length, intercept length and depth are measured and
recorded in UTM Zone 29 WGS84.
The Syama belt is mostly located
on the Tengrela 1/200,000 topo sheet (Sheet NC
29-XVIII).
The Tabakoroni local grid has been
tied to the UTM Zone 29 WGS84 co-ordinate system.
Spectrum Survey & Mapping from
Australia established survey control at Tabakoroni using AusPos
online processing to obtain an accurate UTM Zone 29 (WGS84) and
'above geoid' RL for the origin of the survey control
points.
Accuracy of the survey
measurements is considered to meet acceptable industry
standards.
Drill hole information has been
tabulated for this release in the intercepts table of the
accompanying text.
For completeness the following
information about the drill holes is provided:
· Easting, Northing and RL of the drill hole collars are
measured and recorded in UTM Zone 29 (WGS84)
· Dip
is the inclination of the drill hole from horizontal. A drill hole
drilled at -60° is 60° from the horizontal
· Down
hole length is the distance down the inclination of the hole and is
measured as the distance from the horizontal to end of
hole
·
Intercept depth is the distance from the start of the hole
down the inclination of the hole to the depth of interest or
assayed interval of interest.
|
Data aggregation methods
|
• In reporting Exploration
Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or minimum
grade truncations (e.g. cutting of high grades) and cut-off grades
are usually Material and should be stated.
• Where aggregate intercepts
incorporate short lengths of high-grade results and longer lengths
of low-grade results, the procedure used for such aggregation
should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations
should be shown in detail.
• The assumptions used for
any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly
stated.
|
No new exploration results have been reported in this
release.
Exploration results are tabulated
using the following parameters:
· Grid
coordinates are WGS84 Zone 29 North
· Cut-off grade for reporting of intercepts is >=1g/t
Au
· No
top cut of individual assays prior to length weighted compositing
of the reported intercept has been applied
· Maximum 3m consecutive internal dilution included within the
intercept
Metal equivalent values are not
used in reporting
|
Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept
lengths
|
• These relationships are
particularly important in the reporting of Exploration
Results.
• If the geometry of the
mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is known, its
nature should be reported.
• If it is not known and only
the down hole lengths
are reported, there should be a clear statement to this effect
(e.g. 'down hole length, true width not known').
|
The majority of the drill holes are planned at a general
inclination of ‑60 degrees east and as close to perpendicular to
the ore zone as possible.
At the angle of the drill holes
and the dip of the ore zones, the reported intercepts will be
slightly more than true width.
|
Diagrams
|
• Appropriate maps and
sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be
included for any significant discovery being reported These should
include, but not be limited to
a plan view of drill hole collar locations and appropriate
sectional views.
|
No exploration results have been reported in this
release.
|
Balanced reporting
|
• Where comprehensive
reporting of all Exploration Results is not practicable,
representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or widths
should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration
Results.
|
Significant intercepts of new drill holes have not been reported in
this release.
|
Other substantive exploration data
|
• Other exploration data, if
meaningful and material, should
be reported including (but not limited to): geological
observations; geophysical survey results; geochemical survey
results; bulk samples - size and method of treatment; metallurgical
test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock
characteristics; potential deleterious
or contaminating substances.
|
No geophysical and geochemical data or any additional exploration
information has been reported in this release, as they are not
deemed relevant to the release.
|
Further work
|
• The nature and scale of
planned further work (e.g. tests
for lateral extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out
drilling).
• Diagrams clearly
highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main
geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this
information is not commercially sensitive.
|
Further drilling is planned.
|
Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE
EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Database integrity
|
• Measures taken to ensure
that data has not been corrupted
by, for example, transcription or keying errors, between its
initial collection and its use for Mineral Resource estimation
purposes.
• Data validation procedures
used.
|
Data have been compiled into a relational SQL database; the
setup of this database precludes the loading of data which do not
meet the required validation protocols. The data is managed using
DataShed© drill hole management software using SQL database
techniques. Validation checks are conducted using SQL and DataShed©
relational database standards. Data has also been checked
against original hard copies for 100% of the data, and where
possible, loaded from original data sources.
Resolute completed the following
basic validation checks on the data supplied prior to resource
estimation:
· Drill holes with overlapping sample intervals
· Sample intervals with no assay data or duplicate
records
· Assay grade ranges
· Collar coordinate ranges
· Valid hole orientation data.
There are no significant issues
identified with the data.
|
Site visits
|
• Comment on any site visits
undertaken by the Competent Person and the outcome of those
visits.
• If no site visits have been
undertaken indicate why this is
the case.
|
Mr Bruce Mowat, a full-time employee of Resolute Mining Ltd
and a Member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy
is the Competent Person who has visited this site
multiple.
All aspects of drilling, sampling
and mining are considered by the Competent Persons to be of a high
industry standard.
|
Geological
interpretation
|
• Confidence in (or
conversely, the uncertainty of) the geological interpretation of
the mineral deposit.
• Nature of the data used and
of any assumptions made.
• The effect, if any, of
alternative interpretations on Mineral Resource
estimation.
• The use of geology in
guiding and controlling Mineral Resource
estimation.
• The factors affecting
continuity both of grade and geology.
|
The digital database used for the interpretation included
logged intervals for the key stratigraphic zones of the Porphyry
Zone. Detailed geological logs were available in hardcopy and
digital and reviewed where necessary.
A wireframe was used to constrain
the estimation is based on drill hole intercepts and geological
boundaries. The wireframe has been constructed to a 0.5 g/t Au
cut-off grade for shape consistency. Only one wireframe was
constructed in the closely spaced drilled area and the remaining
mineralisation was in the wider spaced drilling area and an
alternate estimation method was used.
The confidence in the geological
interpretation is a moderate level and is based on good quality
drilling and ongoing drill hole logging. The main zone has been gc
drilled and therefore is considered robust, the area outside the gc
drilling has a lower confidence give the sparse drilling.
There could be alternative interpretations in this area which is
reflected in the classification.
The logging in the geological
database of lithology and weathering were considered during the
mineralisation domain interpretations, and where
available.
|
Dimensions
|
• The extent and variability
of the Mineral Resource expressed
as length (along strike or otherwise), plan width, and depth
below surface to the upper and lower limits of the Mineral
Resource.
|
The Porphyry Zone Mineral Resource area extends over a strike
length of 700 metres (from 1,164,600 mN to 1,165,300 mN) and
includes the 175 metre vertical interval from 345 mRL to 170
mRL. The overall plan width of the mineralised lodes varies
between a few metres to 20 metres in thickness and is 600 metres
wide (from 810,265 mE to 810,865 mE).
|
Estimation and modelling techniques
|
• The nature and
appropriateness of the estimation technique(s) applied and key
assumptions, including treatment of extreme grade values,
domaining, interpolation parameters and maximum distance of
extrapolation from data points. If a computer assisted estimation
method was chosen include a description of computer software and
parameters used.
• The availability of check
estimates, previous estimates and/or mine production records and
whether the Mineral Resource estimate takes appropriate account of
such data.
• The assumptions made
regarding recovery of by- products.
• Estimation of deleterious
elements or other non-grade variables of economic significance
(e.g. sulphur for acid mine drainage
characterization).
• In the case of block model
interpolation, the block size in relation to the average sample
spacing and the search employed.
• In the case of block model
interpolation, the block size in relation to the average sample
spacing and the search employed.
• Any assumptions behind
modelling of selective mining units.
• Any assumptions about
correlation between variables.
• Description of how the
geological interpretation was used to control the resource
estimates.
• Discussion of basis for
using or not using grade cutting or capping.
• The process of validation,
the checking process used, the comparison of model data to drill
hole data, and use of reconciliation data if
available.
|
Estimation was completed in Datamine Studio RM using two
estimation methods. Gold was estimation into a three-dimensional
block model by dynamic anisotropy using ordinary kriging (OK) into
the main domain (Domain 10). A hard boundary was used between
mineralisation domains. A soft boundary was used between the oxide
and transitional and a hard boundary between transitional and fresh
within the main domain. To capture the complex low angled
surrounding mineralisation an unconstrained inverse distance cubed
(ID3) estimation technique was used.
The drill spacing at The Porphyry
Zone is a nominal 25 by 25 metres for the exploration holes for the
majority of the deposits and 50 by 50 metres around the
periphery. The main part of the deposit has been gc drilled
out to 12.5 by 10 metres. Parent blocks of 4 mE by 10 mN by 5 mRl
were used for the block model to tie in with the existing grade
control model. Sub blocking down to 1 mE by 2.5 mN by 1.25 mRl was
employed for resolution of the mineralisation boundaries as define
by wireframes
Drillhole sample data was flagged
using domain codes generated from three-dimensional mineralisation
domains. The samples were composited to 1 metre
intervals.
Variogram orientations were
largely controlled by the strike of the mineralisation and downhole
variography. The search ellipse for the background
mineralisation is orientated striking towards the north and dipping
30o to the west.
Kriging neighbourhood analysis was
performed to optimise the block size, sample numbers and
discretisation levels with the goal of minimising conditional bias
in the gold grade estimates.
Three search passes were used,
with the first search pass set to the range of the variogram for
each domain. A minimum of 8 and a maximum of 30 samples were
used. The search stayed the same for the second pass but was
increased by a factor of 2 for the third and final pass. The
minimum number of samples was reduced to 6 for the second pass and
4 for the third pass.
No deleterious elements were found
in the ore.
No selective mining units have
been assumed.
Top cuts were applied to reduce
the variability of the data and to remove the outliers.
The estimated block model grades
were visually validated against the input drillhole data and
comparisons were carried out against the drillhole data and by
northing and elevation slices. Global comparison between the
input data and the block grades for each variable is considered
acceptable (±10%).
|
Moisture
|
• Whether the tonnages are
estimated on a dry basis or with natural moisture, and the method
of determination of the moisture content.
|
All tonnages have been estimated on a dry basis.
|
Cut-off parameters
|
• The basis of the adopted
cut-off grade(s) or quality parameters applied.
|
The cut-off grade of 1 g/t for the
stated open pit Mineral Resource estimate is determined from
economic parameters that reflect geotechnical, mining and
processing parameters and costs for an open pit mining
operation.
|
Mining factors
or assumptions
|
· Assumptions made regarding
possible mining methods, minimum mining dimensions and internal
(or, if applicable, external) mining dilution. It is always
necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable
prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider potential
mining methods, but the assumptions made regarding mining methods
and parameters when estimating Mineral Resources may not always be
rigorous. Where this is the case, this should be reported with an
explanation of the basis of the mining assumptions made.
|
The Resource models assume
that a moderate level of mining selectivity is achieved in open pit
mining. It has been assumed that high quality grade control
will be applied to ore/waste delineation processes using RC
drilling, or similar, at a nominal (and no greater) spacing of 10
metre by 12.5 metre and applying a pattern sufficient to ensure
adequate coverage of the mineralisation zones.
This is consistent with current
mining practises at Syama.
|
Metallurgical factors or assumptions
|
• The basis for assumptions or predictions regarding metallurgical
amenability. It is always necessary as part of the process of
determining reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction
to consider potential metallurgical methods, but the assumptions
regarding metallurgical treatment processes and parameters made
when reporting Mineral Resources may not always be rigorous. Where
this is the case, this should be reported with an explanation of
the basis of the metallurgical assumptions made.
|
No metallurgical factors or assumptions have been made during the
resource estimation process as these will be addressed during the
conversion to Ore Reserves.
|
Environmental factors
or assumptions
|
· Assumptions made regarding
possible waste and process residue disposal options. It is always
necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable
prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider the
potential environmental impacts of the mining and processing
operation. While at this stage the determination of potential
environmental impacts, particularly for a green fields project, may
not always be well advanced, the status of early consideration of
these potential environmental impacts should be reported. Where
these aspects have not been considered this should be reported with
an explanation of the environmental assumptions
made.
|
It is a requirement of Decree No.03-594/P-RM of 31 December
2003 of Malian law that an Environmental and Social Impact Study
(Étude d'Impact Environmental et Social - EIES) must be undertaken
to update the potential environmental and social impacts of the
mine's redevelopment. The EIES for the Syama Gold Mine
(including Tabakoroni) was approved in November 2007 and an
Environment Permit (07- 0054/MEA - SG) was issued by the Ministry
of Environment and Sanitation on 22 November 2007. The Ministry of
Environment conducts timely reviews of the Syama Gold Mine to
ensure that company maintains compliance with the EIES
guidelines.
At Syama and Tabakoroni, there are
three key practices for disposal of wastes and residues namely,
stacking of waste rock from open pit mining; storage of tailings
from mineral processes; and "tall-stack dispersion" of sulphur
dioxide from the roasting of gold bearing concentrate. All waste
disposal practices are in accordance with the guidelines in the
EIES.
The Environmental & Social
Impact Study - "Société des Mines de Syama, Syama Gold Mine, Mali",
dated 2007 indicated there was minimal potential for acid mine
drainage from waste rock due to the elevated carbonate content
which buffers a potential acid generation. Resolute maintains
a plan for progressive rehabilitation of waste rock landforms as
part of ongoing mine development and waste rock dumping.
The landform of tailings
impoundments does not have a net acid generating potential.
The largest volume is flotation tailings where the sulphide
minerals have already been removed from the host rock. Its
mineralogy includes carbonates which further buffer any
acid-formation potential from sulphides that may also be
present.
Cyanide levels in the
leached-calcine tailings are typically less than 50 ppm in the weak
acid dissociable form. Groundwater away from the tailings landform
is intercepted by trenches and sump pumps.
Sulphur dioxide is generated from
the roasting of gold concentrate so that gold can be extracted and
refined. Tall-Stack "dispersion" of the sulphur dioxide emission is
monitored continuously. Prevailing weather and dissipation of the
sulphur dioxide is modelled daily to predict the need to pause the
roasting process to meet the air quality criteria set out in the
Environmental & Social Impact Study.
|
Bulk density
|
· Whether assumed or
determined. If assumed, the basis for the assumptions. If
determined, the method used, whether wet or dry, the frequency of
the measurements, the nature, size and representativeness of the
samples.
· The bulk density for bulk
material must have been measured by methods that adequately account
for void spaces (vugs, porosity, etc), moisture and differences
between rock and alteration zones within the
deposit.
· Discuss assumptions for bulk
density estimates used in the evaluation process of the different
materials.
|
No bulk density measurements have been taken at the Porphyry
Zone.
An average SG was applied to the
model by weathering types based on similar deposits at
Syama:
· Oxide
2.12 t/m3
· Transitional
2.38 t/m3
· Fresh
2.72 t/m3
|
Classification
|
• The basis for the
classification of the Mineral Resources into varying confidence
categories.
• Whether appropriate account
has been taken of all relevant factors (i.e. relative confidence in
tonnage/grade estimations, reliability of input data, confidence in
continuity of geology and metal values, quality, quantity and
distribution of the data).
• Whether the result
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
|
In
general, the Inferred Mineral Resource classification is applied to
extensions of mineralised zones on the margins of the deposit where
drill spacing is more than 50 m x 50 m and the extents of
mineralisation at depth. However, due to the complexity of the
surrounding mineralisation and the low confidence in the geological
interpretation in addition to the estimation method being
unconstrained. The competent person decided to classify the
whole of the deposit to Inferred until more drilling can be carried
out.
The validation of the block model
has confirmed satisfactory correlation of the input data to the
estimated grades and reproduction of data trends.
The Mineral Resource estimates
appropriately reflects the view of the Competent Person.
|
Audits or reviews
|
• The results of any audits
or reviews of Mineral Resource estimates.
|
There has been no external review of the Mineral Resource
estimate.
|
Discussion of relative
accuracy/ confidence
|
• Where appropriate a
statement of the relative accuracy and confidence level in the
Mineral Resource estimate using an approach or procedure deemed
appropriate by the Competent Person. For example, the application
of statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify the
relative accuracy of the resource within stated confidence limits,
or, if such an approach is not deemed appropriate, a qualitative
discussion of the factors that could affect the relative accuracy
and confidence of
the estimate.
• The statement should
specify whether it relates to global or local estimates, and, if
local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be relevant to
technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should include
assumptions made and the procedures used.
• These statements of
relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate should be compared
with production data, where available.
|
The Mineral Resource estimate
has been classified based on the quality of the data collected, the
density of data, the confidence of the geological models and
mineralisation models, and the grade estimation quality. This
has been applied to a relative confidence based on data density and
zone confidence for resource classification. No relative
statistical or geostatistical confidence or risk measure has been
generated or applied.
Mine production data was used in
the validation process and showed to be within 20% of the estimated
tonnes, grade and ounces within the mined area.
|
Section 4 Estimation and Reporting of Ore Reserves
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE
EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Mineral Resource estimate for conversion to
Ore Reserves
|
• Description of the Mineral
Resource estimate used as
a basis for the conversion to an Ore Reserve.
• Clear statement as to
whether the Mineral Resources are reported additional to, or
inclusive of, the
Ore Reserve.
|
Resources at Porphyry Zone are reported above a 1 g/t
cut-off. This was calculated as a marginal cut off utilising open
pit mining methods. Material below this cut-off is not
included in the Mineral Resource.
Ore Reserves are the material
reported as a sub-set of the resource, that which can be extracted
from the mine and processed with an economically acceptable
outcome.
Mineral Resources are reported
inclusive of Ore Reserves.
|
|
Site visits
|
• Comment on any site visits
undertaken by the Competent Person and the outcome of those
visits.
• If no site visits have been
undertaken indicate why this
is the case.
|
Mr
Kitwa Ndjibu is member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy and is a Competent Person who has visited the site the
project is located.
|
|
Study status
|
• The type and level of study
undertaken to enable Mineral Resources to be converted to Ore
Reserves.
• The Code requires that a
study to at least Pre-Feasibility Study level has been undertaken
to convert Mineral Resources to Ore Reserves. Such studies will
have been carried out and will have determined a mine plan that is
technically achievable and economically viable, and that material
Modifying Factors have been considered.
|
The
Porphyry Zone deposit is adjacent to the Tabakoroni mine which had
a Feasibility study was completed in 2009 with updates in 2012
& 2016.
Tabakoroni has been in continuous
mining operation since August 2018. During this time the
performance the project has shown a positive reconciliation between
mineral resources and gold production and delivered positive
cashflows. For 2023, the pit has been depleted; there is no ore to
report.
|
|
Cut-off
parameters
|
• The basis of the cut-off
grade(s) or quality
parameters applied.
|
No
need to determine the cut-off grade
|
|
Mining factors or assumptions
|
· The method and assumptions
used as reported in the Pre-Feasibility or Feasibility Study to
convert the Mineral Resource to an Ore Reserve (i.e. either by
application of appropriate factors by optimization or by
preliminary or detailed design).
· The choice, nature and
appropriateness
of the selected mining method(s) and other mining parameters
including associated design issues such as pre-strip, access,
etc.
· The assumptions made
regarding geotechnical parameters (e.g. pit slopes, stope sizes,
etc.), grade control and pre-production drilling.
· The major assumptions made
and Mineral Resource model used for pit and stope optimization (if
appropriate).
· The mining dilution factors
used.
· The mining recovery factors
used.
· Any minimum mining widths
used.
· The manner in which
Inferred Mineral Resources are utilized in mining studies and the
sensitivity of the outcome to their inclusion.
· The infrastructure
requirements of the selected mining methods.
|
The reported Ore Reserve estimate for Porphyry Zone is based on pit
optimisations conducted using the Lerchs-Grossman (LG) algorithm of
the Whittle software to calculate the optimal pit at specific input
parameters and pit designs. Costs are based on existing
contract mining and haulage rates and site costs which are
understood with a high degree of accuracy.
Mining is undertaken by
conventional open pit methods of drill and blast, followed by load
and haul, utilising mining equipment comprising 120t - 230t diesel
hydraulic excavators and 90t off-highway dump trucks.
Detailed pit design work was
completed based on pit optimisations using Whittle Four-X
optimisation software. Only Indicated Resources were used in
the pit optimisation.
Pit slope parameters for Porphyry
Zone were based on a geotechnical assessment that included a total
of seven specific geotechnical holes. Overall slopes angles
are approximately 40°. All other pits adopt similar overall
slope angles.
Grade control consists of RC
drilling, based on a 5.0mE x 12.5mN drill pattern
The MIK resource estimation
technique used for the Porphyry Zone implicitly incorporates
internal mining dilution at the scale of the assessed SMU so no
additional modifying factor was applied.
|
|
Metallurgical factors
or assumptions
|
• The metallurgical process
proposed and the appropriateness of that process to the style of
mineralization.
• Whether the metallurgical
process is well-tested technology or novel in
nature.
• The nature, amount and
representativeness of metallurgical test work undertaken, the
nature of the metallurgical domaining applied and the corresponding
metallurgical recovery factors applied.
• Any assumptions or
allowances made for deleterious elements.
• The existence of any bulk
sample or pilot scale test work and the degree to which such
samples are considered representative of the ore body as a
whole.
• For minerals that are
defined by a specification, has the ore reserve estimation been
based on the appropriate mineralogy to meet the
specifications?
|
Processing is by conventional primary crushing followed by single
stage SAG milling. Gold recovery is by means of a gravity
recovery circuit and carbon in leach process.
Processing recoveries used are
90%, 80% and 65% for Oxide, Transitional and fresh material
respectively
Mine is operational with good
reconciliation between predicted recoveries and actual
Allowances are made in the
recovery estimates for transitional and fresh ore as the Au
recovery is impacted by some of the gold being hosted in refractory
sulphide and preg-robbing carbon
|
|
Environmental
|
• The status of studies of
potential environmental impacts of the mining and processing
operation. Details of waste rock characterization and the
consideration of potential sites, status of design options
considered and, where applicable, the status of approvals for
process residue storage and waste dumps should be
reported.
|
An
active waste rock characterisation program has been put in place
for Porphyry Zone.
Ore Reserves from Porphyry Zone
will be processed at Syama and tailings storage will be impounded
in existing footprint area approved in the Environmental &
Social Impact Study. Progressive raising of the tailings occurs
regularly with the 9th lift completed in 2019. Routine
progress on the monitoring is reported to government and at
stakeholder meetings in concert with routine inspections by
government representatives.
|
|
Infrastructure
|
· The existence of appropriate
infrastructure: availability of land for plant development, power,
water, transportation (particularly for bulk commodities), labour,
accommodation; or the ease with which the infrastructure can be
provided, or accessed.
|
All
required infrastructure is already in place for the Porphyry Zone
deposit which is within the current the Tabakoroni mine
footprint
|
|
Costs
|
· The derivation of, or
assumptions made, regarding projected capital costs in the
study.
· The methodology used to
estimate operating costs.
· Allowances made for the
content of deleterious elements.
· The derivation of
assumptions made of metal or commodity price(s), for the principal
minerals and co- products.
· The source of exchange rates
used in the study.
· Derivation of transportation
charges.
· The basis for forecasting or
source of treatment and refining charges, penalties for failure to
meet specification, etc.
· The allowances made for
royalties payable, both Government and private.
|
The Porphyry Zone deposit is adjacent to the Tabakoroni mine, with
established mining operations. Ore is trucked to Syama where
it is processed at Syama's oxide circuit. General and
administration costs are shared between the oxide plant and the
sulphide plant which treats the Syama UG orebody. The
Porphyry Zone deposit will be mined contemporaneously with the
Tabakoroni pits using the same mining and haulage fleet. The
mining and haulage rates are based on known contract
rates.
The oxide plant produces gold doré
(without problematic deleterious elements) that is subsequently
refined offsite. Refining costs are not material.
Exchange rates used for planning
purposes are from consensus forecasts provided by external
corporate advisers.
Ad valorem Government royalties of
6% are payable on gold production
|
|
Revenue factors
|
• The derivation of, or
assumptions made regarding revenue factors including head grade,
metal or commodity price(s) exchange rates, transportation and
treatment charges, penalties, net smelter returns,
etc.
• The derivation of
assumptions made of metal or commodity price(s), for the principal
metals, minerals and co-products.
|
A
gold price of US$1,500/oz formed the basis of the Ore
Reserves.
|
|
Market assessment
|
• The demand, supply and
stock situation for the particular commodity, consumption trends
and factors likely to affect supply and demand into the
future.
• A customer and competitor
analysis along with the identification of likely market windows for
the product.
• Price and volume forecasts
and the basis for these forecasts.
• For industrial minerals the
customer specification, testing and acceptance requirements prior
to a supply contract.
|
The
market for gold is robust with prevailing gold price being around
US$1,850/oz.
Supply and demand are not
considered material to the Ore Reserve calculations.
|
|
Economic
|
• The inputs to the economic
analysis to produce the net present value (NPV) in the study, the
source and confidence of these economic inputs including estimated
inflation, discount rate, etc.
• NPV ranges and sensitivity
to variations in the significant assumptions and
inputs.
|
The
financial evaluation undertaken as part of the evaluation of these
open pits indicated a positive net present value (NPV) at a 5%
discount rate and operating results to date have exceeded
production and NPV forecasts.
|
|
Social
|
• The status of agreements
with key stakeholders and matters leading to social license to
operate.
|
The
Porphyry Zone falls under the SOMIFI exploitation permit and is
managed by SOMISY SA under Management and Toll Treatment agreements
lodged with the Government of Mali.
It is the intention to encourage
economic development within the local community. During the
operation of Tabakoroni and its satellite deposits the focus has
been on improving farming and health care plus providing access to
water; this will continue to remain a focus.
The Syama Mine Community
Consultative Committee, which includes representation from
Tabakoroni and the villages adjacent to the Syama Satellites, was
established in February 2001 with representatives from local
villages, the Malian Government and SOMISY. Since April 2004
the Committee has met regularly as a communication forum and to
address community issues and assist with community project
proposals; it continues to meet on the first or second Tuesday of
each month.
|
|
Other
|
• To the extent relevant, the
impact of the following on the project and/or on the estimation and
classification of the Ore Reserves:
• Any identified material
naturally occurring risks.
• The status of material
legal agreements and marketing arrangements.
• The status of governmental
agreements and approvals critical to the viability of the project,
such as mineral tenement status, and government and statutory
approvals. There must be reasonable grounds to expect that all
necessary Government approvals will be received within the
timeframes anticipated in the Pre-Feasibility or Feasibility study.
Highlight and discuss the materiality of any unresolved matter that
is dependent on a third party on which extraction of the reserve is
contingent.
|
All
current government agreements and approvals are in good standing
and no anticipated changes are expected.
|
|
Classification
|
• The basis for the
classification of the Ore Reserves into varying confidence
categories.
• Whether the result
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
• The proportion of Probable
Ore Reserves that have been derived from Measured Mineral Resources
(if any).
|
Proved and Probable Ore Reserves were declared based on the
Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources.
The Ore Reserve estimate
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
|
|
Audits or reviews
|
• The results of any audits
or reviews of Ore Reserve estimates.
|
|
|
Discussion of relative
accuracy/ confidence
|
• Where appropriate a
statement of the relative accuracy and confidence level in the Ore
Reserve estimate using an approach or procedure deemed appropriate
by the Competent Person. For example, the application of
statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify the relative
accuracy of the reserve within stated confidence limits, or, if
such an approach is not deemed appropriate, a qualitative
discussion of the factors which could affect the relative accuracy
and confidence of the estimate.
• The statement should
specify whether it relates to global or local estimates, and, if
local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be relevant to
technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should include
assumptions made and the procedures used.
• Accuracy and confidence
discussions should extend to specific discussions of any applied
Modifying Factors that may have a material impact on Ore Reserve
viability, or for which there are remaining areas of uncertainty at
the current study stage.
• It is recognized that this
may not be possible or appropriate in all circumstances. These
statements of relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate
should be compared with production data, where available.
|
The
relative accuracy and confidence of the Ore Reserve estimate is
inherent in the Ore Reserve Classification.
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
Syama Satellite Deposits - Cashew, Paysans, Tellem and Syama
North
Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Sampling techniques
|
· Nature and quality of
sampling (e.g. cut channels, random chips, or specific specialised
industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the minerals
under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld
XRF instruments, etc.). These examples should not be taken as
limiting the broad meaning of sampling.
· Include reference to
measures taken to ensure sample representivity and the appropriate
calibration of any measurement tools or systems
used.
· Aspects of the determination
of mineralisation that are Material to the Public
Report.
· In cases where 'industry
standard' work has been done this would be relatively simple (e.g.
'reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m samples from
which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire
assay'). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as
where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems.
Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (e.g. submarine
nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information.
|
The samples were collected from reverse circulation (RC) and
diamond core drill holes.
RC samples were collected on 1m
intervals by riffle split (dry) or by scoop (wet), to obtain
a 1-3kg sample which was sent to the laboratory for crushing,
splitting and pulverising to provide a 30g charge for
analysis.
Diamond core was sampled at 1m
intervals and cut in half, to provide a 2-4kg sample,
which was sent to the laboratory for crushing, splitting and
pulverising to provide a 30g charge for analysis.
Sampling and sample preparation
protocols are industry standard and are deemed appropriate by the
Competent Person.
|
Drilling techniques
|
· Drill type (e.g. core,
reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air blast, auger,
Bangka, sonic, etc.) and details (e.g. core diameter, triple or
standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other
type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method,
etc.).
|
Drill types used include diamond core of PQ and HQ sizes and
RC.
Core is oriented at 3m down hole
intervals using a Reflex Act II RD Orientation Tool.
|
Drill sample recovery
|
· Method of recording and
assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results
assessed.
· Measures taken to maximise
sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the
samples.
· Whether a relationship
exists between sample recovery and grade and whether sample bias
may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse
material.
|
Drill core interval recoveries are measured from core block to core
block using a tape measure.
Appropriate measures are taken to
maximise sample recovery and ensure the representative nature of
the samples.
No apparent relationship is noted
between sample recovery and grade.
|
Logging
|
· Whether core and chip
samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level
of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation,
mining studies and metallurgical studies.
· Whether logging is
qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean, channel,
etc.) photography.
· The total length and
percentage of the relevant intersections logged.
|
Drill holes were geologically logged by geologists for colour,
grainsize, lithology, minerals, alteration and weathering on
geologically-domained intervals.
Geotechnical and structure
orientation data was measured and logged for all diamond core
intervals.
Diamond core was photographed (wet
and dry).
Holes were logged in their entirety
(100%) and this logging was considered reliable and
appropriate.
|
Sub-sampling techniques
and sample preparation
|
· If core, whether cut or sawn
and whether quarter, half or all core taken.
· If non-core, whether
riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc. and whether sampled wet
or dry.
· For all sample types, the
nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation
technique.
· Quality control procedures
adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise representivity of
samples.
· Measures taken to ensure
that the sampling is representative of the in-situ material
collected, including for instance results for field
duplicate/second-half sampling.
· Whether sample sizes are
appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled.
|
Diamond core was sampled at 1m intervals and cut in half to obtain
a 2-4kg sample.
Reverse circulation samples were
collected on 1m intervals by riffle split (dry) or by scoop (wet)
to obtain a 1-3kg sample.
Sample preparation for diamond core
and RC samples includes oven drying, crushing to 10mm, splitting
and pulverising to 85% passing -75µm. These preparation techniques
are deemed to be appropriate to the material being
sampled.
Drill core coarse duplicates were
split by the laboratory after crushing at a rate of 1:20 samples.
Reverse circulation field duplicates were collected by the Company
at a rate of 1:20 samples.
Sampling, sample preparation and
quality control protocols are of industry standard and all attempts
were made to ensure an unbiased representative sample was
collected. The methods applied in this process were deemed
appropriate by the Competent Person.
|
Quality of assay data and laboratory tests
|
· The nature, quality and
appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and
whether the technique is considered partial or
total.
· For geophysical tools,
spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc., the parameters used
in determining the analysis including instrument make and model,
reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation,
etc.
· Nature of quality control
procedures adopted (e.g. standards, blanks, duplicates, external
laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (i.e.
lack of bias) and precision have been established.
|
All samples were dispatched to ALS Bamako for gold analysis by 30g
fire assay fusion with AAS instrument finish (method code Au-AA25).
Over-range results were re-analysed and reported by 30g fire assay
fusion with gravimetric finish (method code Au-GRA21). The
analytical method was appropriate for the style of
mineralisation.
No geophysical tools were used to
determine elemental concentrations.
Quality control (QC) procedures
included the use of certified standards (1:40), non-certified sand
blanks (1:40), diamond core coarse duplicates (1:20) and reverse
circulation field duplicates (1:20).
Laboratory quality control data,
including laboratory standards, blanks, duplicates, repeats, grind
size results and sample weights were also captured into the digital
database.
Analysis of the QC sample assay
results indicates that an acceptable level of accuracy and
precision has been achieved.
|
Verification of sampling and assaying
|
· The verification of
significant intersections by either independent or alternative
company personnel.
· The use of twinned
holes.
· Documentation of primary
data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage
(physical and electronic) protocols.
· Discuss any adjustment to
assay data.
|
Verification of significant intersections have been completed by
Company personnel and the Competent Person.
No drill holes within the resource
area were twinned.
Drill holes were logged into
digital templates with lookup codes, validated and then compiled
into a relational SQL 2012 database using DataShed data management
software. The database has verification protocols which are used to
validate the data entry. The drill hole database is backed up on a
daily basis to the head office server.
Assay result files were reported by
the laboratory in PDF and CSV format and imported into the SQL
database without adjustment or modification.
|
Location of data points
|
· Accuracy and quality of
surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys),
trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral
Resource estimation.
· Specification of the grid
system used.
· Quality and adequacy of
topographic control.
|
Collar coordinates were picked up in UTM (WGS84) by staff surveyors
using an RTK DGPS with an expected accuracy of ±0.05m; elevations were height above
EGM96 geoid.
Down hole surveys were collected
at intervals between 5m and 30m using either a Reflex EZ-Gyro north
seeking instrument or a Reflex EZ-Trac magnetic instrument in
single shot or multi shot mode. A time-dependent declination was
applied to the magnetic readings to determine UTM
azimuth.
Coordinates and azimuths are
reported in UTM WGS84 Zone 29 North.
Coordinates were translated to
local mine grid using 1 point and rotation.
Local topographic control is via
LIDAR surveys, satellite photography and drone UAV aerial
survey.
|
Data spacing and distribution
|
· Data spacing for reporting
of Exploration Results.
· Whether the data spacing and
distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of geological
and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral Resource and Ore
Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications
applied.
· Whether sample compositing
has been applied.
|
Drill hole spacing was sufficient to demonstrate geological and
grade continuity appropriate for a Mineral Resource and the
classifications applied under the 2012 JORC Code.
The appropriateness of the drill
spacing was reviewed by the geological technical team, both on site
and head office. This was also reviewed by the Competent
Person.
Samples were collected on 1m
intervals; no sample compositing is applied during
sampling.
|
Orientation of data in relation to geological
structure
|
· Whether the orientation of
sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the
extent to which this is known, considering the deposit
type.
· If the relationship between
the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised
structures is considered to have introduced a sampling bias, this
should be assessed and reported if material.
|
Holes were drilled predominantly perpendicular to mineralised
domains where possible.
No orientation-based sampling bias
has been identified in the data.
|
Sample security
|
· The measures taken to ensure
sample security.
|
Samples were collected from the drill site and stored on site.
All samples were individually bagged and labelled with unique
sample identifiers, then securely dispatched to the laboratories.
All aspects of sampling and dispatch process were supervised and
tracked by SOMIFI/SOMISY personnel.
|
Audits or reviews
|
· The results of any audits or
reviews of sampling techniques and data.
|
External audits of procedures indicate protocols are within
industry standards.
|
Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Mineral tenement and land tenure status
|
·
Type, reference
name/number, location and ownership including agreements or
material issues with third parties such as joint ventures,
partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests,
historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental
settings.
·
The security of
the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known
impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the
area.
|
Drilling at Syama was conducted within the Malian Exploitation
Concession Permit PE 93/003 which covers an area of
200.6km2.
Resolute Mining Limited has an 80%
interest in the Syama project and the Exploitation Permit PE
93/003, on which it is based, through its Malian subsidiary,
Sociêtê des Mines de Syama SA (SOMISY). The Malian Government holds
a free carried 20% interest in SOMISY.
The Permits are held in good
standing. Malian mining law provides that all Mineral Resources are
administered by DNGM (Direction Nationale de la Géologie et des
Mines) or National Directorate of Geology and Mines under the
Ministry of Mines, Energy and Hydrology.
|
Exploration done by other parties
|
·
Acknowledgment
and appraisal of exploration by other parties.
|
The Syama deposit was originally discovered by a regional
geochemical survey undertaken by the Direction National de Géologie
et des Mines (DNGM) with assistance from the United Nations
Development Program (UNDP) in 1985. There had also been a long
history of artisanal activities on the hill where an outcropping
chert horizon originally marked the present-day position of the
open pit.
BHP during 1987-1996 sampled pits,
trenches, auger, RC and diamond drill holes across Syama prospects.
Randgold Resources Ltd during 1996-2000 sampled pits, trenches,
auger, RAB, RC and diamond drill holes across Syama
prospects.
Etruscan Resources Inc explored
Tabakoroni during 2002-2003 by auger, aircore, RC and diamond drill
hole tails. The Tabakoroni area was previously explored Barrick
Gold (1990) by auger, pits, trenches, RAB and diamond core
drilling.
|
Geology
|
·
Deposit type,
geological setting and style of mineralisation.
|
The Syama Project is found on the northern margin of the
Achaean-Proterozoic Leo Shield which forms the southern half of the
West African Craton. The project area straddles the boundary
between the Kadiana-Madinani terrane and the Kadiolo terrane. The
Kadiana-Madinani terrane is dominated by greywackes and a narrow
belt of interbedded basalt and argillite. The Kadiolo terrane
comprises polymictic conglomerate and sandstone that were sourced
from the Kadiana-Madinani terrane and deposited in a late- to
syntectonic basin.
Prospects are centred on the NNE
striking, west dipping, Syama-Bananso Fault Zone and Birimian
volcano-sedimentary units of the Syama Formation. The major
commodity being sought is gold.
|
Drill hole Information
|
·
A summary of all
information material to the understanding of the exploration
results including a tabulation of the following information for all
Material drill holes:
o easting and northing of the
drill hole collar
o elevation or RL (Reduced
Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole
collar
o dip and azimuth of the
hole
o down hole length and
interception depth
o Whole length.
·
If the exclusion
of this information is justified on the basis that the information
is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the
understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly
explain why this is
the case.
|
All information, including easting, northing, elevation, dip,
azimuth, coordinate system, drill hole length, intercept length and
depth are measured and recorded in UTM Zone 29 WGS84.
The Syama belt is mostly located
on the Tengrela 1/200,000 topo sheet (Sheet NC
29-XVIII).
Spectrum Survey & Mapping from
Australia established survey control at Tabakoroni using AusPos
online processing to obtain an accurate UTM Zone 29 (WGS84) and
'above geoid' RL for the origin of the survey control
points.
Accuracy of the survey
measurements is considered to meet acceptable industry
standards.
Drill hole information has been
tabulated for this release in the intercepts table of the
accompanying text.
For completeness the following
information about the drill holes is provided:
· Easting, Northing and RL of the drill hole collars are
measured and recorded in UTM Zone 29 (WGS84).
· Dip is the inclination of the drill hole from horizontal. A
drill hole drilled at -60° is 60° from the horizontal.
· Down hole length is the distance down the inclination of the
hole and is measured as the distance from the horizontal to end of
hole.
· Intercept depth is the distance from the start of the hole
down the inclination of the hole to the depth of interest or
assayed interval of interest.
|
Data aggregation methods
|
·
In reporting
Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or
minimum grade truncations (e.g. cutting of high grades) and cut-off
grades are usually Material and should be stated.
·
Where aggregate
intercepts incorporate short lengths of high-grade results and
longer lengths of low-grade results, the procedure used for such
aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such
aggregations should be shown in detail.
·
The assumptions
used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly
stated.
|
Exploration results are tabulated using the following
parameters:
· Grid coordinates are WGS84 Zone 29 North.
· Cut-off grade for reporting of intercepts is >=1g/t
Au.
· No top cut of individual assays prior to length weighted
compositing of the reported intercept has been applied.
· Maximum 3m consecutive internal dilution included within the
intercept.
Metal equivalent values are not
used in reporting.
|
Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept
lengths
|
·
These
relationships are particularly important in the reporting of
Exploration Results.
·
If the geometry
of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is
known, its nature should be reported.
·
If it is not
known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be
a clear statement to this effect (e.g. 'down hole length, true
width not known').
|
The Cashew NE, Paysans and Syama North mineralisation is shallowly
dipping at about 30 degrees to the west (local grid).
The majority of the Tellem
mineralisation is narrow and sub vertical.
The majority of the drill holes are
planned at a general inclination of ‑60 degrees east and as close
to perpendicular to the ore zone as possible.
At the angle of the drill holes and
the dip of the ore zones, the reported intercepts will be slightly
more than true width.
|
Diagrams
|
·
Appropriate maps
and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be
included for any significant discovery being reported These should
include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar
locations and appropriate sectional views.
|
No exploration results have been reported in this
release.
|
Balanced reporting
|
·
Where
comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not
practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades
and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of
Exploration Results.
|
Significant intercepts of new drill holes have not been reported in
this release.
|
Other substantive exploration data
|
·
Other
exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported
including (but not limited to): geological observations;
geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk
samples - size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results;
bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics;
potential deleterious or contaminating
substances.
|
No geophysical and geochemical data or any additional exploration
information has been reported in this release, as they are not
deemed relevant to the release.
|
Further work
|
·
The nature and
scale of planned further work (e.g. tests for lateral extensions or
depth extensions or large-scale step-out
drilling).
·
Diagrams clearly
highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main
geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this
information is not commercially sensitive.
|
Further drilling is planned.
|
|
|
| |
Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE
EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Database integrity
|
· Measures taken to ensure
that data has not been corrupted by, for example, transcription or
keying errors, between its initial collection and its use for
Mineral Resource estimation purposes.
· Data validation procedures
used.
|
Cashew,Paysans and Tellem Data has
been compiled into a relational SQL database; the setup of this
database precludes the loading of data which do not meet the
required validation protocols. The data is managed using DataShed©
drill hole management software using SQL database techniques.
Validation checks are conducted using SQL and DataShed© relational
database standards. Data has also been checked against original
hard copies for 100% of the data, and where possible, loaded from
original data sources.
Resolute completed the following
basic validation checks on the data
supplied prior to resource estimation:
· Drill
holes with overlapping sample intervals.
· Sample
intervals with no assay data or duplicate records.
· Assay
grade ranges.
· Collar
coordinate ranges.
· Valid
hole orientation data.
There are no significant issues
identified with the data.
|
Site visits
|
· Comment on any site visits
undertaken by the Competent Person and the outcome of those
visits.
· If no site visits have been
undertaken indicate why
this is the case.
|
Cashew and Paysans Mr Bruce Mowat, a
full-time employee of Resolute Mining Ltd and a Member of the
Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy is the Competent
Person who has visited this site multiple times.
Tellem and Syama North
Mr Patrick Smillie is a full-time
employee of Resolute Mining Ltd and a Member of the Society for
Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration is the competent person and has
visited site on multiple occasions.
All aspects of drilling, sampling
and mining are considered by the Competent Persons to be of a high
industry standard.
|
Geological interpretation
|
· Confidence in (or
conversely, the uncertainty of) the geological interpretation of
the mineral deposit.
· Nature of the data used and
of any assumptions made.
· The effect, if any, of
alternative interpretations on Mineral Resource
estimation.
· The use of geology in
guiding and controlling Mineral Resource
estimation.
· The factors affecting
continuity both of grade and geology.
|
Cashew and Paysans The digital
database used for the interpretation included logged intervals for
the key stratigraphic zones of Cashew NE, Paysans and Tellem.
Detailed geological logs were available in hardcopy and digital and
reviewed where necessary.
Wireframes used to constrain the
estimation are based on drill hole intercepts and geological
boundaries. All wireframes at Cashew NE and Paysans have been
constructed to a 0.3g/t Au cut-off grade for shape consistency. At
Tellem they were constructed at nominal 0.1g/t Au mineralised
envelope.
There is a moderate level of
confidence for the interpretation at Cashew NE, Paysans, Tellem and
Syama North due to the relatively close-spaced drilling at surface.
The mineralisation is generally quite consistent and drill
intercepts clearly define the shape of the mineralised zones with
limited options for large scale alternate
interpretations.
|
Dimensions
|
· The extent and variability
of the Mineral Resource
expressed as length (along strike or otherwise), plan width,
and depth below surface to the upper and lower limits of the
Mineral Resource.
|
Cashew The mineral resource at Cashew
comprises three individual domains they all dip at about 30 degrees
to the west (local grid) from surface and extend 200 metres down
dip. The three domains extend for approximately 350 metres along
strike and the gold mineralised zone width varies between 1.5 and
20 metres, with an average thickness of 7 metres.
Paysans Three domains have been
identified at Paysans. The three domains all dip at about 30
degrees to the west (local grid) and extend for 300 metres down
dip. The mineralised zone width varies between 1.5 and 10 metres
with an average thickness of 3 metres. They strike north-south
(local grid) for approximately 1,700 metres. The deposit has been
divided into three areas by two faults which run east-west
(local grid).
Tellem There are three mineralised domains at Tellem. The three
domains are narrow sub vertical zone of stockwork veins modelled to
be between a few metres to 1.5 metres in thickness. The strike
length is approximately 4.3 kilometres and covers a vertal extent
of 270 metres.
Syama North The Syama North Mineral Resource area extends over a strike
length of 6,000 metres (from 1,196,925mN to 1,202,800mN), and
includes the 310m vertical interval from 455mRL to 145mRL. The
overall plan width of the mineralised lodes varies between 10
metres to 100 metres in horizontal thickness.
|
Estimation and modelling techniques
|
•
The nature and
appropriateness of the estimation technique(s) applied and key
assumptions, including treatment of extreme grade values,
domaining, interpolation parameters and maximum distance of
extrapolation from data points. If a computer assisted estimation
method was chosen include a description of computer software and
parameters used.
· The availability of check
estimates, previous estimates and/or mine production records and
whether the Mineral Resource estimate takes appropriate account of
such data.
· The assumptions made
regarding recovery of by- products.
· Estimation of deleterious
elements or other
non-grade variables of economic significance (e.g. sulphur for acid
mine drainage characterization).
· In the case of block model
interpolation, the block size in relation to the average sample
spacing and the search employed.
· In the case of block model
interpolation, the block size in relation to the average sample
spacing and the search employed.
· Any assumptions behind
modelling of selective mining units.
· Any assumptions about
correlation between variables.
· Description of how the
geological interpretation was used to control the resource
estimates.
· Discussion of basis for
using or not using grade cutting or capping.
· The process of validation,
the checking process used, the comparison of model data to drill
hole data, and use of reconciliation data if
available.
|
Cashew Estimation was completed in
Datamine Studio RM using an Ordinary Kriged model to estimate the
gold, sulphide sulphur and organic carbon grades. Grades were
estimated into parent block of 5mE by 5mN by 2.5mRL with sub-
celling down to 2.5mE by 2.5mN by 2.5mRL was employed for
resolution of the mineralisation boundaries as defined by
wireframes. The drill spacing at Cashew is a nominal 25 by 25
metres for the exploration holes for the majority of the deposits
and 50 by 50 metres around the periphery. The main part of the
deposit has been gc drilled out to 12.5 by 5 metres.
Drillhole sample data was flagged
using domain codes generated from three-dimensional mineralisation
domains. The samples were composited to 1 metre
intervals.
Variogram orientations were
largely controlled by the strike of the mineralisation and downhole
variography. One set of variograms was generated for all the
mineralisation due to similar orientation of each of the
domains.
Kriging neighbourhood analysis was
performed to optimise the block size, sample numbers and
discretisation levels with the goal of minimising conditional bias
in the gold grade estimates.
The mineralisation domains were
treated as hard boundaries in the estimation process while
oxidation surfaces were treated as soft boundaries.
Three search passes were used,
with the first search pass set to the range of the variogram for
each domain. A minimum of 8 and a maximum of 30 samples were used.
The search stayed the same for the second pass but was increased by
a factor of 2 for the third and final pass. The minimum number of
samples was reduced to six for the second pass and for the third
pass.
No deleterious elements were found
in the ore.
No selective mining units have
been assumed.
Top cuts were applied to reduce
the variability of the data and to remove the outliers.
The estimated block model grades
were visually validated against the input drillhole data and
comparisons were carried out against the drillhole data and by
northing and elevation slices. Global comparison between the input
data and the block grades for each variable is considered
acceptable (±10%)
Paysans
Estimation was completed in Datamine Studio RM using an Ordinary
Kriged model to estimate the gold grade. Grades were estimated into
parent block of 10mE by 20mN (at Cashew, 25mN at Paysans) by 5mRL
with sub- celling down to 2.5mE by 2.5mN by 2.5mRL was employed for
resolution of the mineralisation boundaries as defined by
wireframes. The drill spacing at Paysans is a nominal 25 by 25
metres for the exploration holes for the majority of the deposits
and 50 by 50 metres around the periphery.
Drillhole sample data was flagged
using domain codes generated from three-dimensional mineralisation
domains. The samples were composited to one metre
intervals.
Variogram orientations were
largely controlled by the strike of the mineralisation and downhole
variography. One set of variograms was generated for all the
mineralisation due to similar orientation of each of the domains
and sometimes lack of composites.
Kriging neighbourhood analysis was
performed to optimise the block size, sample numbers and
discretisation levels with the goal of minimising conditional bias
in the gold grade estimates.
At Cashew mineralisation domains
were treated as hard boundaries in the estimation process while
oxidation surfaces were treated as soft boundaries. At Paysans the
mineralisation domains were treated as hard boundaries as well as
the boundary
between the transitional and fresh material within each domain.
The boundary between the oxide and transitional is treated as a
soft boundary. Three search passes were used, with the first search
pass set to the range of the variogram for each domain. A minimum
of eight and a maximum of 30 samples were used. The search stayed
the same for the second pass but was increased by a factor of three
for the third and final pass. The minimum number of samples was
reduced to six for the second pass and four for the third
pass.
No deleterious elements were found
in the ore.
No selective mining units have
been assumed.
Top cuts were applied to reduce
the variability of the data and to remove the outliers.
The estimated block model grades
were visually validated against the input drillhole data and
comparisons were carried out against the drillhole data and by
northing and elevation slices. Global comparison between the input
data and the block grades for each variable is considered
acceptable (±10%).
Syama North and Tellem
Estimation of gold grade has been
completed using Ordinary Kriging (OK).
The deposit mineralisation has
been constrained by wireframes constructed using a combination of
downhole gold assay and associated lithological logging. These lode
wireframes have been used to define domain codes used for
estimation. The drillholes have been flagged with the domain code
and composited using the domain code to segregate the
data.
Domain boundary analysis has been
undertaken, with hard boundaries used for all domains.
Drillholes have been composited to
1m intervals using Leapfrog Geo 2023.2 with residual lengths
distributed evenly across all composites. There are no residual
samples.
The influence of extreme gold
assays has been reduced by top-cutting across selected domains.
Top-cuts have been determined using a combination of log
probability, log histogram, and mean-variance plots. Top-cuts have
been reviewed and applied to the composites on a domain-by-domain
basis.
Variography has been determined
using Datamine Supervisor v.8.14 software using top-cut values.
Where there is insufficient data in individual domains to generate
meaningful variograms, domains have been grouped, or variograms
borrowed from other similar domains.
Drillhole data spacing ranges from
10m spacing in areas of dense drilling to approximately 100m
spacing in sparsely drilled, deeper areas.
Syama North
The block model parent block size
is 5m (X) by 10m (Y) by 5m (Z) with sub-blocks down to 0.3125m (X)
by 0.625m (Y) by 0.3125m (Z), with the sub-blocks estimated at the
scale of the parent block. The block size is considered appropriate
for the drillhole spacing throughout the deposit.
Grade estimation has been
completed in three passes:
Ø Pass 1 estimation has been undertaken using a minimum and
maximum number of sample composites (determined using Datamine
Supervisor v.8.14 KNA tool) into a search ellipsoid with dimensions
equal to half the variogram range of the domain.
Ø Pass 2 estimation has been undertaken with the same
minimum/maximum samples as Pass 1 into a search ellipsoid twice the
first pass.
Ø Pass 3 estimation has been undertaken with a minimum of 4
samples, and the same maximum number of samples as the first two
passes into a search ellipsoid twice the second pass
Previous Mineral Resource
estimates are comparable in size and scope when considering the
additional extensional drilling included in the current
estimate.
The Mineral Resource estimate has
been validated using visual validation tools, mean grade
comparisons between the block model and declustered composite grade
means, and swath plots comparing the input composite grades and the
block model grades by Northing, Easting, and RL
No selective mining units are
assumed in the estimate.
There will be no by-products
recovered from mining.
No additional or deleterious
elements have been estimated.
The model focuses on interpreting
mineralisation beneath existing open pits. Historical
reconciliation data is incomplete and has not been used.
Tellem
The block model parent block size
is 5m (X) by 10m (Y) by 5m (Z) with sub-blocks down to 0.625m (X)
by 1.25m (Y) by 0.625m (Z), with the sub-blocks estimated at the
scale of the parent block. The block size is considered appropriate
for the drillhole spacing throughout the deposit.
Grade estimation has been
completed in three passes:
Ø Pass 1 estimation has been undertaken using a minimum and
maximum number of sample composites (determined using Datamine
Supervisor v.8.14 KNA tool) into a search ellipsoid with dimensions
equal to half the variogram range of the domain.
Ø Pass 2 estimation has been undertaken with the same
minimum/maximum samples as Pass 1 into a search ellipsoid twice the
first pass.
Ø Pass 3 estimation has been undertaken with a minimum of 4
samples, and the same maximum number of samples as the first two
passes into a search ellipsoid twice the second pass
Previous Mineral Resource
estimates are comparable in size and scope when considering the
additional extensional drilling included in the current
estimate.
The Mineral Resource estimate has
been validated using visual validation tools, mean grade
comparisons between the block model and declustered composite grade
means, and swath plots comparing the input composite grades and the
block model grades by Northing, Easting, and RL
No selective mining units are
assumed in the estimate.
There will be no by-products
recovered from mining.
No additional or deleterious
elements have been estimated.
The model focuses on interpreting
mineralisation beneath existing open pits. Historical
reconciliation data is incomplete and has not been used.
|
Moisture
|
· Whether the tonnages are
estimated on a dry basis or with natural moisture, and the method
of determination
of the moisture content.
|
Cashew, Paysans, Tellem and Syama North All tonnages have been estimated on a dry basis.
|
Cut-off parameters
|
· The basis of the adopted
cut-off grade(s) or quality parameters applied.
|
Mineral Resources for open pit extraction have been reported
at a 1g/t Au grade cut-off.
|
Mining factors or assumptions
|
· Assumptions made regarding
possible mining methods, minimum mining dimensions and internal
(or, if applicable, external) mining dilution. It is always
necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable
prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider potential
mining methods, but the assumptions made regarding mining methods
and parameters when estimating Mineral Resources may not always be
rigorous. Where this is the case, this should be reported with an
explanation of the basis of the mining assumptions made.
|
Cashew, Paysans, Tellem and Syama North The Resource models assume that a moderate level of mining
selectivity is achieved in open pit mining. It has been assumed
that high quality grade control will be applied to ore/waste
delineation processes using RC drilling, or similar, at a nominal
(and no greater) spacing of 5 metre by 12.5 metre and applying a
pattern sufficient to ensure adequate coverage of the
mineralisation zones.
This is consistent with current
mining practises at Syama.
|
Metallurgical factors or assumptions
|
· The basis for assumptions or
predictions regarding metallurgical amenability. It is always
necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable
prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider potential
metallurgical methods, but the assumptions regarding metallurgical
treatment processes and parameters made when reporting Mineral
Resources may not always be rigorous. Where this is the case, this
should be reported with an explanation of the basis of the
metallurgical assumptions made.
|
Cashew, Paysans, Tellem and Syama North No metallurgical factors or assumptions have been made during
the resource estimation process as these will be addressed during
the conversion to Ore Reserves.
|
Environmental factors or assumptions
|
· Assumptions made regarding
possible waste and process residue disposal options. It is always
necessary as part
of the process of determining reasonable prospects for eventual
economic extraction to consider the potential environmental impacts
of the mining and processing operation. While at this stage the
determination of potential environmental impacts, particularly for
a green fields project, may not always be well advanced, the status
of early consideration of these potential environmental impacts
should be reported. Where these aspects have
not been considered this should be reported with an explanation of
the environmental assumptions made.
|
Cashew, Paysans, Tellem and Syama North It is a requirement of Decree No.03-594/P-RM of 31 December
2003 of Malian law that an Environmental and Social Impact Study
(Étude d'Impact Environmental et Social - EIES) must be undertaken
to update the potential environmental and social impacts of the
mine's redevelopment. The EIES for the Syama Gold Mine (including
Tabakoroni) was approved in November 2007 and an Environment Permit
(07- 0054/MEA - SG) was issued by the Ministry of Environment and
Sanitation on 22 November 2007. The Ministry of Environment
conducts timely reviews of the Syama Gold Mine to ensure that the
Company maintains compliance with the EIES guidelines.
At Syama, there are three key
practices for disposal of wastes and residues namely, stacking of
waste rock from open pit mining; storage of tailings from mineral
processes; and "tall-stack dispersion" of sulphur dioxide from the
roasting of gold bearing concentrate. All waste disposal practices
are in accordance with the guidelines in the EIES.
The Environmental and Social
Impact Study - "Société des Mines de Syama, Syama Gold Mine, Mali",
dated 2007 indicated there was minimal potential for acid mine
drainage from waste rock due to the elevated carbonate content
which buffers a potential acid generation. Resolute maintains a
plan for progressive rehabilitation of waste rock landforms as part
of ongoing mine development and waste rock dumping.
The landform of tailings
impoundments does not have a net acid generating potential. The
largest volume is flotation tailings where the sulphide minerals
have already been removed from the host rock. Its mineralogy
includes carbonates which further buffer any acid-formation
potential from sulphides that may also be present.
Cyanide levels in the
leached-calcine tailings are typically less than 50ppm in the weak
acid dissociable form. Groundwater away from the tailings landform
is intercepted by trenches and sump pumps.
Sulphur dioxide is generated from
the roasting of gold concentrate so that gold can be extracted and
refined. Tall-Stack "dispersion" of the sulphur dioxide emission is
monitored continuously. Prevailing weather and dissipation of the
sulphur dioxide is modelled daily to predict the need to pause the
roasting process to meet the air quality criteria set out in the
Environmental and Social Impact Study.
|
Bulk density
|
· Whether assumed or
determined. If assumed, the basis for the assumptions. If
determined, the method used, whether wet or dry, the frequency of
the measurements, the nature, size and representativeness of the
samples.
· The bulk density for bulk
material must have been measured by methods that adequately account
for void spaces (vugs, porosity, etc), moisture and differences
between rock and alteration zones within the
deposit.
· Discuss assumptions for bulk
density estimates used in the evaluation process of the different
materials.
|
Paysans and Tellem No bulk density
measurements have been taken at Paysans.
An average SG was applied to the
model by weathering type based on similar deposits at
Syama:
a)
Oxide
1.80 t/m3
b)
Transitional 2.40
t/m3
c)
Fresh
2.70
t/m3
Cashew One hole had density measurements at Cashew. The average
density was adjusted to reflect the density of this hole. The
density was assigned based on weathering:
a)
Oxide
2.00 t/m3
b)
Transitional 2.56 t/m3
c)
Fresh
2.75
t/m3
Syama North
Site personnel have completed
numerous bulk density comparative estimates on HQ drill core to
assess variability using the Archimedes method of dry weight versus
weight in water. This method was used for 96% of the bulk
density measurements.
Other tests were completed by SGS
using the pycnometer method.
Based on the data collected the
following SG estimates were applied to the model:
Oxide
1.80 t/m3
Transitional
2.40 t/m3
Fresh
2.70
t/m3
|
Classification
|
· The basis for the
classification of the Mineral Resources into varying confidence
categories.
· Whether appropriate account
has been taken of all relevant factors (i.e. relative confidence in
tonnage/grade estimations, reliability of input data, confidence in
continuity of geology and metal values, quality, quantity and
distribution of the data).
· Whether the result
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
|
Cashew and Paysans The Indicated
Mineral Resource classification is based on moderate confidence in
the geology and gold grade continuity with 25m x 25m spaced
drillhole density or less.
The Inferred Mineral Resource
classification is applied to extensions of mineralised zones on the
margins of the deposit where drill spacing is more than 50m x 50m
and the extents of mineralisation at depth.
The validation of the block model
has confirmed satisfactory correlation of the input data to the
estimated grades and reproduction of data trends.
Tellem and Syama North
Mineral Resources were classified in accordance
with the Australasian Code for the Reporting of Exploration
Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (JORC,
2012).
The deposits have been classified
as Measured, Indicated, and Inferred Mineral Resource based on a
combination of quantitative and qualitative criteria which include
geologic continuity, confidence in volume models, data quality,
sample spacing, lode continuity, and estimation parameters (number
of informing composites, estimation pass number, kriging quality
parameters, and minimum and average distance
composites).
The Measured portion of the
Resource was defined using areas populated on the first estimation
pass, within 20m of informing composites; the kriging efficiency
and slope of regression were generally >=0.7; and high
confidence exists in lode continuity (strike and
thickness).
The Indicated portion of the
Resource was defined using areas populated on the first two
estimation passes within 50m of informing composites; the kriging
efficiency and slope of regression were generally >=0.7; and
moderate to high confidence exists in lode continuity (strike and
thickness).
Mineralisation that not classified
by the above parameters has been classified as Inferred.
The input data is comprehensive in
its coverage and does not favour or misrepresent the in situ
mineralisation. The definition of the mineralised zones is based on
a high level of geologic understanding from good quality sample
data, producing models of continuous mineralised lodes. Validation
of the block model shows good correlation of the input data to the
block estimated grades.
The Mineral Resource estimate
appropriately reflects the view of the Competent
Person.
|
Audits or reviews
|
· The results of any audits or
reviews of Mineral
· Resource
estimates.
|
Cashew, Paysans, Tellem and Syama North There has been no external review of the Mineral Resource
estimate.
|
Discussion of relative accuracy/ confidence
|
· Where appropriate a
statement of the relative accuracy and confidence level in the
Mineral Resource estimate using an approach or procedure deemed
appropriate by the Competent Person. For example, the application
of statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify the
relative accuracy of the resource within stated confidence limits,
or, if such an approach is not deemed appropriate,
a qualitative discussion of the factors that could affect the
relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate.
· The statement should specify
whether it relates to global or local estimates, and, if local,
state the relevant tonnages, which should be relevant to technical
and economic evaluation. Documentation should include assumptions
made and the procedures used.
· These statements of relative
accuracy and confidence of the estimate should be compared with
production data, where available.
|
Cashew, Paysans, Tellem and Syama North The Mineral Resource estimate has been classified based on
the quality of the data collected, the density of data, the
confidence of the geological models and mineralisation models, and
the grade estimation quality. This has been applied to a relative
confidence based on data density and zone confidence for resource
classification. No relative statistical or geostatistical
confidence or risk measure has been generated or
applied.
The relative accuracy of the
Mineral Resource estimate is reflected in the reporting of
Indicated and Inferred resource categories as defined by 2012 JORC
Code guidelines.
The estimate is considered to be
relevant to an annual level of reporting of tonnage and
grade.
No production data available for
comparison.
|
|
|
| |
Section 4 Estimation and Reporting of Ore Reserves
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE
EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Mineral Resource estimate for conversion to Ore
Reserves
|
· Description of the Mineral
Resource estimate used
as a basis for the conversion to an Ore Reserve.
· Clear statement as to
whether the Mineral Resources
are reported additional to, or inclusive of, the Ore
Reserve.
|
Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo and Tellem
Resources and Rese
Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo and Tellem
Resources and Reserves at Cashew
South, Paysans_Samogo and Tellem are reported above a 1 g/t cut-off
. This was calculated as a marginal cut-off utilising open pit
mining methods. Material below this cut-off is not included in the
mineral resource.
Ore Reserves are the material
reported as a sub-set of the resource, that which can be extracted
from the mine and processed with an economically acceptable
outcome.
Mineral Resources are reported
inclusive of Ore Reserves.rves at Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo and
Tellem are reported above a 1 g/t cut-off . This was calculated as
a marginal cut-off utilising open pit mining methods. Material
below this cut-off is not included in the mineral
resource.
Ore Reserves are the material
reported as a sub-set of the resource, that which can be extracted
from the mine and processed with an economically acceptable
outcome.
Mineral Resources are reported
inclusive of Ore Reserves.
Syama North
The Ore Reserves are based on the
Mineral Resource estimate detailed in the ASX release dated
January 2023. The resource was reported above a 1.0 g/t gold
grade cut-off, based on an equivalent gold price of US$2,000/oz and
using an Open pit mining methodology. The Material below this
cut-off is not included in the Mineral Resource.
Ore Reserves are the Material
reported as a sub-set of the resource, that which can be extracted
from the region and processed with an economically acceptable
outcome.
|
Site visits
|
· Comment on any site visits
undertaken by the
Competent Person and the outcome of those visits.
· If no site visits have been
undertaken indicate why
this is the case.
|
Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo and Tellem
Mr Kitwa Ndjibu a member of the
Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and is a Competent
Person who has visited the site the project is in the year
2023.
Syama North
The Competent Person, Mr Kitwa
Ndjibu, is a full-time employee of Resolute Mining Ltd and a Member
of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.
Regular site visit to the project
area was conducted during the year 2023, and weekly contact with
site teams was maintained throughout the period. These site visits
help to validate technical and operating assumptions used in the
preparation of these ore reserves
The site visit reviewed the
project site and proposed waste dump location, a review of current
operations at Syama and Tabakoroni, existing open pit
infrastructure available, a review of selected drill core and
various meetings were held with site personnel key stakeholders to
the study.
|
Study status
|
· The type and level of study
undertaken to enable
Mineral Resources to be converted to Ore
Reserves.
· The Code requires that a
study to at least Pre-Feasibility Study level has been undertaken
to convert Mineral Resources to Ore Reserves. Such studies will
have been carried out and will have determined a mine plan that is
technically achievable and economically viable, and that material
Modifying Factors have been considered.
|
Cashew South, Paysans- Samogo and Tellem
Feasibility studies were completed
for mining of open satellite deposits in 2009 and mining of
satellite pits has been occurring since 2014.
Further optimisations have been
undertaken in 2022 given the change in gold price and other inputs
such as mining and processing costs. The above-mentioned
optimisations resulted in new pit designs at all sites, Cashew
South, Paysans_Samogo and Tellem.
Syama North
Syama No Syama North Consist of
A21, Beta, Alpha & Ba04.
Feasibility Studies were completed
for mining of Open pit satellite deposits in 2016, and mining of
satellite pits has been occurring since 2016. Recent drilling in
Syama North has identified a significant resource in sulphide,
spread across the Syama North region, an extension to the known
oxide deposit. Additional drilling was completed targeting the A21
area and the resource model was updated in August 2023 with
additional information. Pit was reoptimized using the new model and
redesigned to match the latest optimisation. All Reserves were
declared as Probable as more test works and drilling is ongoing to
firm up the modifying factors (geotechnical inputs).
The work undertaken to date has
addressed all material Modifying Factors required for the
conversion of a Mineral Resources estimate into an Ore Reserve
estimate and has shown material change to the reserve; i.e, change
in tonnes, grades, rock type (Oxide; Transisitional and Fresh).
Furthermore, the result shows that the mine plan is technically
feasible and economically viable.rth Consist of A21, Beta, Alpha
& Ba04.
Feasibility Studies were completed
for mining of Open pit satellite deposits in 2016, and mining of
satellite pits has been occurring since 2016. Recent drilling in
Syama North has identified a significant resource in sulphide,
spread across the Syama North region, an extension to the known
oxide deposit. Additional drilling was completed targeting the A21
area and the resource model was updated in August 2023 with
additional information. Pit was reoptimized using the new model and
redesigned to match the latest optimisation. All Reserves were
declared as Probable as more test works and drilling is ongoing to
firm up the modifying factors (geotechnical inputs).
The work undertaken to date has
addressed all material Modifying Factors required for the
conversion of a Mineral Resources estimate into an Ore Reserve
estimate and has shown material change to the reserve; i.e, change
in tonnes, grades, rock type (Oxide; Transisitional and Fresh).
Furthermore, the result shows that the mine plan is technically
feasible and economically viable.
|
Cut-off parameters
|
· The basis of the cut-off
grade(s) or quality
parameters applied.
|
Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo and Tellem
Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo and
Tellem. use a cut-off of 0.8 g/t, based on the economic parameters
described in subsequent sections. The increase in gold price from
$1500/oz-$1650/oz has been balanced by the increase in dilution
across the Syama south resulting in no change to the cut of
grade
Syama North
Based on the economic parameters
described in subsequent sections, calculated cut of grade of the
fresh representing more than 90% of Syama North ore is
approximately 1.07 g/t. As a result, Syama North uses a cut-off of
1.0 g/t.
|
Mining factors or assumptions
|
· The method and assumptions
used as reported in the Pre-Feasibility or Feasibility Study to
convert the Mineral Resource to an Ore Reserve (i.e. either by
application of appropriate factors by optimization or by
preliminary or detailed design).
· The choice, nature and
appropriateness of the selected mining method(s) and other mining
parameters including associated design issues such as pre-strip,
access, etc.
· The assumptions made
regarding geotechnical parameters (e.g. pit slopes, stope sizes,
etc.), grade control and pre-production drilling.
· The major assumptions made
and Mineral Resource model used for pit and stope optimization (if
appropriate).
· The mining dilution factors
used.
· The mining recovery factors
used.
· Any minimum mining widths
used.
· The manner in which Inferred
Mineral Resources are utilized in mining studies and the
sensitivity of the outcome to their inclusion.
· The infrastructure
requirements of the selected mining methods.
|
Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo and Tellem
The reported Ore Reserve estimates
Cashew NE, Tellem and Paysans are based on pit optimisations
conducted using the Lerchs-Grossman (LG) algorithm utilizing the
Whittle to determine the optimal pit at specific input parameters
and pit designs. Costs are based on existing contract mining and
haulage rates and site costs which are understood with a high
degree of accuracy.
Mining is planned to be undertaken
by conventional open pit methods of drill and blast, followed by
load and haul.
Detailed pit design work was
completed based on pit optimisations using Whittle Four-X
optimisation software. Only Measured and Indicated Resources
were used in the pit optimisation.
Overall slope angles are
approximately 40° based on empirical experience from the mining
other similar satellite pits
Grade control consists of RC
drilling, based on a 5.0mE x 12.5mN drill pattern
A 5 % dilution factor and 10%
mining loss factors have been applied to all satellite
Cashew South, Paysans, Folona and
Tellem.
Minimum Mining Width used is
15m.Syama North
The reported Ore Reserve estimates
for Syama North are based on pit optimisations conducted using the
Lerchs-Grossman (LG) algorithm utilizing the NPV Scheduler and
reviewed in Whittle to calculate the optimal pit at specific input
parameters and pit designs. Costs are based on existing contract
mining and haulage rates and site costs which are understood with a
high degree of accuracy.
Mining is planned to be undertaken
by conventional open pit methods of drill and blast, followed by
load and haul.
Detailed pit design work was
completed based on pit optimisations result. Only Measured and
Indicated Resources were used in the pit optimisation.
Overall slope angles are dependent
on rock type; approximately 34° for Oxide, 38° for Transisitional
and 50° for Fresh as recommended by Geotechnical consultants and
operational experience in mining other similar pits in same
region.
A 5% dilution and 10 % mining loss
factor applied. All Inferred material is treated as waste and is
excluded from Reserve Reporting. However, at A21 central west,
currently operating, site has applied 10% dilution and 5% mining
loss.
Inferred Mineral Resources are not
included in the pit optimisation and pit design. A mining and
production schedule were completed with Inferred Mineral Resource
treated as waste. As a result, the conversion of Inferred Mineral
Resource to processed product is not required for the overall
financial viability of the project.
|
Metallurgical factors or assumptions
|
· The metallurgical process
proposed and the appropriateness of that process to the style of
mineralization.
· Whether the metallurgical
process is well-tested technology or novel in
nature.
· The nature, amount and
representativeness of metallurgical test work undertaken, the
nature of the metallurgical domaining applied and the corresponding
metallurgical recovery factors applied.
· Any assumptions or
allowances made for deleterious elements.
· The existence of any bulk
sample or pilot scale test work and the degree to which such
samples are considered representative of the ore body as a
whole.
· For minerals that are
defined by a specification, has the ore reserve estimation been
based on the appropriate mineralogy to meet the specifications?
|
Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo and Tellem
Processing is by conventional
primary crushing followed by single stage SAG milling. Gold
recovery is by means of a gravity recovery circuit and carbon in
leach process.
Processing recoveries used are
90%, 80% and 65% for Oxide, Transitional and Fresh material
respectively.
Mine is operational with good
reconciliation between predicted recoveries and actuals.
Allowances are made in the
recovery estimates for Transitional and Fresh ore as the Au
recovery is impacted by some of the gold being hosted in refractory
sulphide and preg-robbing carbon
Syama North
Metallurgical test work was
conducted on multiple samples. The tests indicated that, similarly
to the Syama ore. The processing of the ore will be similar to
that of the Syama sulphide circuit which has been in operation for
several years and is well understood, consisting of the following
stages:
· Crushing and grinding utilising the existing oxide process
plant infrastructure
· Gravity gold recovery utilising the existing oxide gravity
circuit
· Flotation to produce a sulphide rich concentrate
· Concentrate thickening
· Roasting, followed by calcine quench and wash
· Carbon-in-leach (CIL)
· Tailings disposal
The oxide crushing and grinding
circuit has an oxide capacity of 1.6 Mtpa, and Sulphide crushing
& grinding has a sulphide capacity of 2.4 Mtpa. PFS study is
underway to expand the oxide circuit to a dual feed circuit to feed
additional Sulphide ore once the oxide ore depletes.
The Syama roaster, CIL circuit and
tailings storage facility has enough capacity to process the
additional concentrate from Syama North Sulphide ore
stream.
A total gold recovery of 86%, 80%
and 78%, has been assumed for Oxide, Transitional and Fresh
Material respectively, based on test results to date. This is in
line with similar ore being processed at Syama.
|
Environmental
|
· The status of studies of
potential environmental impacts of the mining and processing
operation. Details of waste rock characterization and the
consideration of potential sites, status of design options
considered and, where applicable, the status of approvals for
process residue storage and waste dumps should be
reported.
|
Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo and Tellem
Ore from these pits will be
processed at Syama and tailings storage will be impounded in
existing footprint area approved in the Environmental & Social
Impact Study. Progressive raising of the tailings occurs
regularly with the 9th lift completed in 2019. Routine
progress on the monitoring is reported to government and at
stakeholder meetings in concert with routine inspections by
government representatives.Syama
North
An active waste rock
characterisation program has been put in place. Potentially Acid
Forming (PAF) and Non Acid Forming (NAF) will be identified for
waste material dumping in light of closure plan
consideration.
Ore from these pits will be
processed at Syama and tailings storage will be impounded in
existing tailings storage area.
|
Infrastructure
|
· The existence of appropriate
infrastructure: availability of land for plant development, power,
water, transportation (particularly for bulk commodities), labour,
accommodation; or the ease with which the infrastructure can be
provided, or accessed.
|
Cashew NE, Paysans, Tellem, and Syama North These pits will be supported by existing infrastructure at
Syama
as they are close to the main facility.
|
Costs
|
· The derivation of, or
assumptions made, regarding projected capital costs in the
study.
· The methodology used to
estimate operating costs.
· Allowances made for the
content of deleterious elements.
· The derivation of
assumptions made of metal or commodity price(s), for the principal
minerals and co- products.
· The source of exchange rates
used in the study.
· Derivation of transportation
charges.
· The basis for forecasting or
source of treatment and refining charges, penalties for failure to
meet specification, etc.
· The allowances made for
royalties payable, both
· Government and
private.
|
All
pits are located within approximately 10km of Syama. Ore is trucked
to Syama where it is processed at Syama's oxide circuit. General
and administration costs are shared between the oxide plant and the
sulphide plant which treats the Syama UG orebody. As part of
ongoing operations, capital and operating budgets are prepared from
first principles and considering existing contractual
agreements.
The oxide plant produces gold doré
(without problematic deleterious elements) that is subsequently
refined offsite. Refining costs are not material.
·
Exchange rates used for planning purposes are
from consensus forecasts provided by external corporate
advisers.
·
Ad valorem Government royalties of 6% are payable
on gold production.
|
Revenue factors
|
· The derivation of, or
assumptions made regarding revenue factors including head grade,
metal or commodity price(s) exchange rates, transportation and
treatment charges, penalties, net smelter returns,
etc.
· The derivation of
assumptions made of metal or commodity price(s), for the principal
metals, minerals and co-products.
|
A
gold price of US$1,650/oz formed the basis of the Ore Reserves.
Gold prices used for planning are from consensus forecasts provided
by external corporate advisers.
No penalties are incurred, nor is
any revenue received from co-products.
|
Market assessment
|
· The demand, supply and stock
situation for the particular commodity, consumption trends and
factors likely to affect supply and demand into the
future.
· A customer and competitor
analysis along with the identification of likely market windows for
the product.
· Price and volume forecasts
and the basis for these forecasts.
· For industrial minerals the
customer specification, testing and acceptance requirements prior
to a supply contract.
|
The
market for gold is robust with prevailing gold price being well
above the Reserve price.
Supply and demand are not
considered material to the Ore
Reserve calculations.
|
Economic
|
· The inputs to the economic
analysis to produce the net present value (NPV) in the study, the
source and confidence of these economic inputs including estimated
inflation, discount rate, etc.
· NPV ranges and sensitivity
to variations in the significant assumptions and inputs.
|
Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo and Tellem
The financial evaluation
undertaken as part of the evaluation of these open pits indicated a
positive net present value (NPV) at 7% discount rate and operating
results to date have exceeded production and NPV
forecasts.
Syama North
The financial evaluation
undertaken as part of the evaluation indicated a positive net
present value (NPV) at a 7% annual discount rate. The following
major economic inputs were used:
· Costs
as previous described
· Gold
price of US$1650/oz
· Royalties of 6%
· Effective tax rate of 25% (Corporate tax rate of 30% with 5%
discount provided by the Malian government to
Tabakoroni)
· Discount rate of 7% per annum for real, post-tax cash
flows.
|
Social
|
· The status of agreements
with key stakeholders and matters leading to social license to
operate.
|
Cashew South, Paysans_samogo and Tellem
The Southern Satellite Pits fall
within the Syama exploitation permit and will be managed and
operated by SOMISY SA.
Development of the Southern
Satellite pits has required updating of the SOMISY ESIA which has
been lodged with the Government of Mali since December 2019.
The ESIA process has required consultation with local community and
local government leadership plus other relevant stakeholders.
Engagement will continue up to and during operations including the
payment of compensation to farmers whose fields are disturbed as
per Malian legal requirements.
It is anticipated that Malian
nationals will fill most operating and management positions related
to the Southern Satellite open pits.
It is the intention to encourage
economic development within the local community
The Syama Mine Community
Consultative Committee, which includes representation from
Tabakoroni and the villages adjacent to the Southern Satellites,
was established in February 2001 with representatives from local
villages, the Malian Government and SOMISY. Since April 2004
the Committee has met regularly as a communication forum and to
address community issues and assist with community project
proposals; it continues to meet on the first or second Tuesday of
each month.Syama North
The Syama North Pits fall within
the Syama exploitation permit and will be managed and operated by
SOMISY SA.
Development of the Syama North
requires updating of the SOMISY ESIA. The ESIA process requires
consultation with local community and government leadership and
other relevant stakeholders. Engagement will continue up to and
during operations including the payment of compensation to farmers
whose fields are disturbed as per Malian legal
requirements.
Malian nationals are anticipated
to fill most operating and management positions related to the
Southern Satellite open pits. The intention is to encourage
economic development within the local community
|
Other
|
· To the extent relevant, the
impact of the following on the project and/or on the estimation and
classification of the Ore Reserves:
· Any identified material
naturally occurring risks.
· The status of material legal
agreements and marketing arrangements.
· The status of governmental
agreements and approvals critical to the viability of the project,
such as mineral tenement status, and government and statutory
approvals. There must be reasonable grounds to expect that all
necessary Government approvals will be received within the
timeframes anticipated in the Pre-Feasibility or Feasibility study.
Highlight and discuss the materiality of any unresolved matter that
is dependent on a third party on which extraction of the reserve is
contingent.
|
Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo, Tellem and Syama North
All current government agreements and approvals
are in good standing and no anticipated changes are expected.
Political instability is a potential risk in Mali, but the owner
has many years operating experience in this environment through the
current Syama operations. The current Malian government is
supportive of mining operations and the current Syama and
operations are in good standing with the authorities. There are no
current unresolved matters affecting this project.
|
Classification
|
· The basis for the
classification of the Ore Reserves into varying confidence
categories.
· Whether the result
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
· The proportion of Probable
Ore Reserves that have been derived from Measured Mineral Resources
(if any).
|
Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo and Tellem
Probable Ore Reserves were
declared based on the Indicated Mineral Resources and Measured
Resources considering the uncertainty of the Modifying Factors such
as geotechnical inputs.
Nevertheless, since Paysans
Central is an operating mine, the uncertainties are reduced but
geotechnical study is yet to confirm the modifying factors (pit
geometry; i.e; batter face angle and berm width. As a result, there
is no Measures Resources conversion into Proved Reserve.
The Ore Reserve estimate
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.Syama North
Proved and Probable Ore Reserves
were declared based on the Measured and Indicated Mineral
Resources.
The Ore Reserve estimate
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
None of the Measured Mineral
Resource was converted to Proven Ore Reserves as the PFS study for
plant expansion is underway.
|
Audits or reviews
|
· The results of any audits or
reviews of Ore Reserve estimates.
|
Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo, Tellem, and Syama North
No external audits of resources/reserves were
undertaken.
|
Discussion of relative accuracy/ confidence
|
· Where appropriate a
statement of the relative accuracy and confidence level in the Ore
Reserve estimate using an approach or procedure deemed appropriate
by the Competent Person. For example, the application of
statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify the relative
accuracy of the reserve within stated confidence limits, or, if
such an approach is not deemed appropriate, a qualitative
discussion of the factors which could affect the relative accuracy
and confidence of the estimate.
· The statement should specify
whether it relates to global or local estimates, and, if local,
state the relevant tonnages, which should be relevant to technical
and economic evaluation. Documentation should include assumptions
made and the procedures used.
· Accuracy and confidence
discussions should extend to specific discussions of any applied
Modifying Factors that may have a material impact on Ore Reserve
viability, or for which there are remaining areas of uncertainty at
the current study stage.
· It is recognized that this
may not be possible or appropriate in all circumstances. These
statements of relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate
should be compared with production data, where available.
|
Cashew South, Paysans_Samogo,Tellem, and Syama North
The relative accuracy and confidence of the Ore
Reserve estimate is inherent in the Ore Reserve
Classification.
All the parameters assumed and
adopted along with financial modelling and analysis have been
subject to internal peer review.
|
Tabakoroni Satellite Deposits - Porphyry Zone
(Splay)
Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Sampling techniques
|
·
Nature and
quality of sampling (e.g. cut channels, random chips, or specific
specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the
minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or
handheld XRF instruments, etc.). These examples should not be taken
as limiting the broad meaning of sampling.
·
Include
reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity and the
appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems
used.
·
Aspects of the
determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public
Report.
·
In cases where
'industry standard' work has been done this would be relatively
simple (e.g. 'reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m
samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for
fire assay'). In other cases more explanation may be required, such
as where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems.
Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (e.g. submarine
nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed
information.
|
The samples were collected from reverse circulation (RC) and
diamond core drill holes.
RC samples were collected on 1m intervals by riffle split
(dry) or by scoop (wet), to obtain a 1-3kg sample which was sent to
the laboratory for crushing, splitting and pulverising to provide a
30g charge for analysis.
Diamond core was sampled at 1m intervals and cut in half, to
provide a 2-4kg sample, which was sent to the laboratory for
crushing, splitting and pulverising to provide a 30g charge for
analysis.
Sampling and sample preparation protocols are industry
standard and are deemed appropriate by the Competent
Person.
|
Drilling techniques
|
·
Drill type
(e.g. core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air
blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc.) and details (e.g. core diameter,
triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit
or other type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method,
etc.).
|
Drill types used include diamond core of PQ and HQ sizes and
RC.
Core is oriented at 3m down hole intervals using a Reflex Act
II RD Orientation Tool.
|
Drill sample recovery
|
·
Method of
recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results
assessed.
·
Measures taken
to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the
samples.
·
Whether a
relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and whether
sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of
fine/coarse material.
|
Drill core interval recoveries are measured from core block to core
block using a tape measure.
Appropriate measures are taken to maximise sample recovery
and ensure the representative nature of the
samples.
No apparent relationship is noted between sample recovery
and grade.
|
Logging
|
·
Whether core
and chip samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged
to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource
estimation, mining studies
and metallurgical studies.
·
Whether logging
is qualitative or quantitative in nature.
Core (or costean, channel, etc.) photography.
·
The total
length and percentage of the relevant
intersections logged.
|
Drill holes were geologically logged by geologists for colour,
grainsize, lithology, minerals, alteration and weathering on
geologically-domained intervals.
Geotechnical and structure orientation data was measured and
logged for all diamond core intervals.
Diamond core was photographed (wet and
dry).
Holes were logged in their entirety (100%) and this logging
was considered reliable and appropriate.
|
Sub-sampling techniques and sample
preparation
|
·
If core,
whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core
taken.
·
If non-core,
whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc. and whether
sampled wet or dry.
·
For all sample
types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample
preparation technique.
·
Quality control
procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise
representivity of samples.
·
Measures taken
to ensure that the sampling is representative of the in-situ
material collected, including for instance results for field
duplicate/second-half sampling.
·
Whether sample
sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being
sampled.
|
Diamond core was sampled at 1m intervals and cut in half to obtain
a 2-4kg sample.
Reverse circulation samples were collected on 1m intervals by
riffle split (dry) or by scoop (wet) to obtain a 1-3kg
sample.
Sample preparation for diamond core and RC samples includes
oven drying, crushing to 10mm, splitting and pulverising to 85%
passing -75µm. These preparation techniques are deemed to be
appropriate to the material being sampled.
Drill core coarse duplicates were split by the laboratory
after crushing at a rate of 1:20 samples. Reverse circulation field
duplicates were collected by the Company at a rate of 1:20
samples.
Sampling, sample preparation and quality control protocols
are of industry standard and all attempts were made to ensure an
unbiased representative sample was collected. The methods applied
in this process were deemed appropriate by the Competent
Person.
|
Quality of assay data and laboratory tests
|
·
The nature,
quality and appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory
procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or
total.
·
For geophysical
tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc., the
parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument
make and model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and
their derivation, etc.
·
Nature of
quality control procedures adopted (e.g. standards, blanks,
duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable
levels of accuracy (i.e. lack of bias) and precision have been
established.
|
All samples were dispatched to ALS Bamako for gold analysis by 30g
fire assay fusion with AAS instrument finish (method code Au-AA25).
Over-range results were re-analysed and reported by 30g fire assay
fusion with gravimetric finish (method code Au-GRA21). The
analytical method was appropriate for the style of
mineralisation.
No geophysical tools were used to determine elemental
concentrations.
Quality control (QC) procedures included the use of certified
standards (1:40), non-certified sand blanks (1:40), diamond core
coarse duplicates (1:20) and reverse circulation field duplicates
(1:20).
Laboratory quality control data, including laboratory
standards, blanks, duplicates, repeats, grind size results and
sample weights were also captured into the digital
database.
Analysis of the QC sample assay results indicates that an
acceptable level of accuracy and precision has been
achieved.
|
Verification of sampling and assaying
|
·
The
verification of significant intersections by either independent or
alternative company personnel.
·
The use of
twinned holes.
·
Documentation
of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data
storage (physical and electronic) protocols.
·
Discuss any
adjustment to assay data.
|
Verification of significant intersections have been completed by
Company personnel and the Competent Person.
No drill holes within the resource area were
twinned.
Drill holes were logged into digital templates with lookup
codes, validated and then compiled into a relational SQL 2012
database using DataShed data management software. The database has
verification protocols which are used to validate the data entry.
The drill hole database is backed up on a daily basis to the head
office server.
Assay result files were reported by the laboratory in PDF and
CSV format and imported into the SQL database without adjustment or
modification.
|
Location of data points
|
·
Accuracy and
quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole
surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in
Mineral Resource estimation.
·
Specification
of the grid system used.
·
Quality and
adequacy of topographic control.
|
Collar coordinates were picked up in UTM (WGS84) by staff surveyors
using an RTK DGPS with an expected accuracy of ±0.05m; elevations were height above
EGM96 geoid.
Down hole surveys were collected
at intervals between 5m and 30m using either a Reflex EZ-Gyro north
seeking instrument or a Reflex EZ-Trac magnetic instrument in
single shot or multi shot mode. A time-dependent declination was
applied to the magnetic readings to determine UTM
azimuth.
Coordinates and azimuths are
reported in UTM WGS84 Zone 29 North.
Coordinates were translated to
local mine grid using 1 point and rotation.
Local topographic control is via
LIDAR surveys, satellite photography and drone UAV aerial
survey.
|
Data spacing and distribution
|
·
Data spacing
for reporting of Exploration Results.
·
Whether the
data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree
of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral
Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and
classifications applied.
·
Whether sample
compositing has been applied.
|
Drill hole spacing was sufficient to demonstrate geological and
grade continuity appropriate for a Mineral Resource and the
classifications applied under the 2012 JORC Code.
The appropriateness of the drill
spacing was reviewed by the geological technical team, both on site
and head office. This was also reviewed by the Competent
Person.
Samples were collected on 1m
intervals; no sample compositing is applied during
sampling.
|
Orientation of data in relation to geological
structure
|
·
Whether the
orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible
structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the
deposit type.
·
If the
relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation
of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a
sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if
material.
|
Holes were drilled predominantly perpendicular to mineralised
domains where possible.
No orientation-based sampling bias
has been identified in the data.
|
Sample security
|
·
The measures
taken to ensure sample security.
|
Samples were collected from the drill site and stored on site. All
samples were individually bagged and labelled with unique sample
identifiers, then securely dispatched to the laboratories. All
aspects of sampling and dispatch process were supervised and
tracked by SOMIFI personnel.
|
Audits or reviews
|
·
The results of
any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and
data.
|
External audits of procedures indicate protocols are within
industry standards.
|
Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Mineral tenement and land tenure status
|
·
Type, reference
name/number, location and ownership including agreements or
material issues with third parties such as joint ventures,
partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests,
historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental
settings.
·
The security of
the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known
impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the
area.
|
Porphyry Zone drilling was completed within the
Finkolo-Tabakoroni Exploitation Licence PE 13/19. Resolute Mining
Limited has an 85% interest in Exploitation Permit PE 13/19,
through its Malian subsidiary, Sociêtê des Mines de Finkolo SA
(SOMIFI). The Malian Government holds a free carried 10% interest
in SOMIFI.
The Permits are held in good
standing. Malian mining law provides that all Mineral Resources are
administered by DNGM (Direction Nationale de la Géologie et des
Mines) or National Directorate of Geology and Mines under the
Ministry of Mines, Energy and Hydrology.
|
Exploration done by other parties
|
·
Acknowledgment
and appraisal of exploration by other parties.
|
Etruscan Resources Inc explored Tabakoroni during 2002-2003 by
auger, aircore, RC and diamond drill hole tails. The Tabakoroni
area was previously explored by BHP (1988-1990) and Barrick Gold
(1990) by auger, pits, trenches, RAB and diamond core
drilling.
|
Geology
|
·
Deposit type,
geological setting and style of mineralisation.
|
The Tabakoroni Porphyry Zone is located on a NNE trending splay of
the NNW oriented Main Tabakoroni Shear Zone.
Host rocks are comprised of
interbedded greywacke and shale with small intrusions of quartz
feldspar phyric dacite porphyry. Ductile shearing affects all units
and is particularly focussed within the shale units.
Mineralisation occurs as
quartz-pyrite veins and sulphidic shears within shale units.
Visible gold is commonly seen in vein quartz.
The gold mineralisation at the
'Porphyry Zone" is somewhat erratic with more coherent zones
striking NNE and dipping shallowly and steeply west.
|
Drill hole Information
|
·
A summary of
all information material to the understanding of the exploration
results including a tabulation of the following information for all
Material drill holes:
o easting and northing of the
drill hole collar
o elevation or RL (Reduced
Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole
collar
o dip and azimuth of the
hole
o down hole length and
interception depth
o Whole
length.
·
If the
exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the
information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract
from the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should
clearly explain why this is
the case.
|
No exploration results have been reported in this
release.
All information, including
easting, northing, elevation, dip, azimuth, coordinate system,
drill hole length, intercept length and depth are measured and
recorded in UTM Zone 29 WGS84.
The Syama belt is mostly located
on the Tengrela 1/200,000 topo sheet (Sheet NC
29-XVIII).
The Tabakoroni local grid has been
tied to the UTM Zone 29 WGS84 co-ordinate system.
Spectrum Survey & Mapping from
Australia established survey control at Tabakoroni using AusPos
online processing to obtain an accurate UTM Zone 29 (WGS84) and
'above geoid' RL for the origin of the survey control
points.
Accuracy of the survey
measurements is considered to meet acceptable industry
standards.
Drill hole information has been
tabulated for this release in the intercepts table of the
accompanying text.
For completeness the following
information about the drill holes is provided:
· Easting, Northing and RL of the drill hole collars are
measured and recorded in UTM Zone 29 (WGS84).
· Dip
is the inclination of the drill hole from horizontal. A drill hole
drilled at -60° is 60° from the horizontal.
· Down
hole length is the distance down the inclination of the hole and is
measured as the distance from the horizontal to end of
hole.
· Intercept depth is the distance from the start of the hole
down the inclination of the hole to the depth of interest or
assayed interval of interest.
|
Data aggregation methods
|
·
In reporting
Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or
minimum grade truncations (e.g. cutting of high grades) and cut-off
grades are usually Material and should be stated.
·
Where aggregate
intercepts incorporate short lengths of high grade results and
longer lengths of low grade results, the procedure used for such
aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such
aggregations should be shown in detail.
·
The assumptions
used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly
stated.
|
Exploration results are tabulated using the following
parameters:
· Grid
coordinates are WGS84 Zone 29 North.
· Cut-off grade for reporting of intercepts is >=1g/t
Au.
· No top
cut of individual assays prior to length weighted compositing of
the reported intercept has been applied.
· Maximum 3m consecutive internal dilution included within the
intercept.
Metal equivalent values are not
used in reporting.
|
Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept
lengths
|
·
These
relationships are particularly important in the reporting of
Exploration Results.
·
If the geometry
of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is
known, its nature should be reported.
·
If it is not
known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be
a clear statement to this effect (e.g. 'down hole length, true
width not known').
|
The majority of the drill holes are planned at a general
inclination of ‑60 degrees east and as close to perpendicular to
the ore zone as possible.
At the angle of the drill holes
and the dip of the ore zones, the reported intercepts will be
slightly more than true width.
|
Diagrams
|
·
Appropriate
maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts
should be included for any significant discovery being reported
These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill
hole collar locations and appropriate sectional
views.
|
No exploration results have been reported in this
release.
|
Balanced reporting
|
·
Where
comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not
practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades
and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of
Exploration Results.
|
Significant intercepts of new drill holes have not been reported in
this release.
|
Other substantive exploration data
|
·
Other
exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported
including (but not limited to): geological observations;
geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk
samples - size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results;
bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics;
potential deleterious or contaminating
substances.
|
No geophysical and geochemical data or any additional exploration
information has been reported in this release,
as they are not deemed relevant to the release.
|
Further work
|
·
The nature and
scale of planned further work (e.g. tests for lateral extensions or
depth extensions or large-scale step-out
drilling).
·
Diagrams
clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including
the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas,
provided this information is not commercially sensitive.
|
Further drilling is planned.
|
|
|
| |
Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE
EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Database integrity
|
· Measures taken to ensure
that data has not been corrupted by, for example, transcription or
keying errors, between its initial collection and its use for
Mineral Resource estimation purposes.
· Data validation procedures
used.
|
Data has been compiled into a relational SQL database; the setup of
this database precludes the loading of data which do not meet the
required validation protocols. The data is managed using DataShed©
drill hole management software using SQL database techniques.
Validation checks are conducted using SQL and DataShed© relational
database standards. Data has also been checked against original
hard copies for 100% of the data, and where possible, loaded from
original data sources.
Resolute completed the following
basic validation checks on the data
supplied prior to resource estimation:
· Drill
holes with overlapping sample intervals.
· Sample
intervals with no assay data or duplicate records.
· Assay
grade ranges.
· Collar
coordinate ranges.
· Valid
hole orientation data.
There are no significant issues
identified with the data.
|
Site visits
|
· Comment on any site visits
undertaken by the Competent Person and the outcome of those
visits.
· If no site visits have been
undertaken indicate why this is the case.
|
Mr Bruce Mowat, a fulltime employee of Resolute Mining Limited and
a Member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy is
the Competent Person who has visited this site on multiple
occasions.
All aspects of drilling, sampling
and mining are considered by the Competent Persons to be of a high
industry standard.
|
Geological interpretation
|
· Confidence in (or
conversely, the uncertainty of) the geological interpretation of
the mineral deposit.
· Nature of the data used and
of any assumptions made.
· The effect, if any, of
alternative interpretations on Mineral Resource
estimation.
· The use of geology in
guiding and controlling Mineral Resource
estimation.
· The factors affecting
continuity both of grade and geology.
|
The digital database used for the interpretation included logged
intervals for the key stratigraphic zones of the Porphyry Zone.
Detailed geological logs were available in hardcopy and digital and
reviewed where necessary.
A wireframe was used to constrain
the estimation is based on drill hole intercepts and geological
boundaries. The wireframe has been constructed to a 0.5g/t Au
cut-off grade for shape consistency. Only one wireframe was
constructed in the closely spaced drilled area and the remaining
mineralisation was in the wider spaced drilling area and an
alternate estimation method was used.
The confidence in the geological
interpretation is a moderate level and is based on good quality
drilling and ongoing drill hole logging. The main zone has been gc
drilled and therefore is considered robust, the area outside the gc
drilling has a lower confidence give the sparse drilling. There
could be alternative interpretations in this area which is
reflected in the classification.
The logging in the geological
database of lithology and weathering were considered during the
mineralisation domain interpretations, and where
available.
|
Dimensions
|
· The extent and variability
of the Mineral Resource expressed as length (along strike or
otherwise), plan width, and depth below surface to the upper and
lower limits of the Mineral Resource.
|
The Porphyry Zone Mineral Resource area extends over a strike
length of 700 metres (from 1,164,600 mN to 1,165,300 mN) and
includes the 175 metre vertical interval from 345mRL to 170mRL. The
overall plan width of the mineralised lodes varies between a few
metres to 20 metres in thickness and is 600 metres wide (from
810,265 mE to 810,865 mE).
|
Estimation and modelling techniques
|
· The nature and
appropriateness of the estimation technique(s) applied and key
assumptions, including treatment of extreme grade values,
domaining, interpolation parameters and maximum distance of
extrapolation from data points. If a computer assisted estimation
method was chosen include a description of computer software and
parameters used.
· The availability of check
estimates, previous estimates and/or mine production records and
whether the Mineral Resource estimate takes appropriate account of
such data.
· The assumptions made
regarding recovery of by- products.
· Estimation of deleterious
elements or other non-grade variables of economic significance
(e.g. sulphur for acid mine drainage
characterization).
· In the case of block model
interpolation, the block size in relation to the average sample
spacing and the search employed.
· In the case of block model
interpolation, the block size in relation to the average sample
spacing and the search employed.
· Any assumptions behind
modelling of selective mining units.
· Any assumptions about
correlation between variables.
· Description of how the
geological interpretation was used to control the resource
estimates.
· Discussion of basis for
using or not using grade cutting or capping.
· The process of validation,
the checking process used, the comparison of model data to drill
hole data, and use of reconciliation data if
available.
|
Estimation was completed in Datamine Studio RM using two estimation
methods. Gold was estimation into a three-dimensional block model
by dynamic anisotropy using ordinary kriging (OK) into the main
domain (Domain 10). A hard boundary was used between mineralisation
domains. A soft boundary was used between the oxide and
transitional and a hard boundary between transitional and fresh
within the main domain. To capture the complex low angled
surrounding mineralisation an unconstrained inverse distance cubed
(ID3) estimation technique was used.
The drill spacing at The Porphyry
Zone is a nominal 25 by 25 metres for the exploration holes for the
majority of the deposits and 50 by 50 metres around the periphery.
The main part of the deposit has been gc drilled out to 12.5 by 10
metres. Parent blocks of 4mE by 10mN by 5mRl were used for the
block model to tie in with the existing grade control model. Sub
blocking down to 1mE by 2.5mN by 1.25mRl was employed for
resolution of the mineralisation boundaries as define by
wireframes
Drillhole sample data was flagged
using domain codes generated from three-dimensional mineralisation
domains. The samples were composited to 1 metre
intervals.
Variogram orientations were
largely controlled by the strike of the mineralisation and downhole
variography. The search ellipse for the background mineralisation
is orientated striking towards the north and dipping 30o
to the west.
Kriging neighbourhood analysis was
performed to optimise the block size, sample numbers and
discretisation levels with the goal of minimising conditional bias
in the gold grade estimates.
Three search passes were used,
with the first search pass set to the range of the variogram for
each domain. A minimum of eight and a maximum of 30 samples were
used. The search stayed the same for the second pass but was
increased by a factor of two for the third and final pass. The
minimum number of samples was reduced to 6 for the second pass and
four for the third pass.
No deleterious elements were found
in the ore.
No selective mining units have
been assumed.
Top cuts were applied to reduce
the variability of the data and to remove the outliers.
The estimated block model grades
were visually validated against the input drillhole data and
comparisons were carried out against the drillhole data and by
northing and elevation slices. Global comparison between the input
data and the block grades for each variable is considered
acceptable (±10%).
|
Moisture
|
· Whether the tonnages are
estimated on a dry basis or with natural moisture, and the method
of determination of the moisture content.
|
All tonnages have been estimated on a dry basis.
|
Cut-off parameters
|
· The basis of the adopted
cut-off grade(s) or quality parameters applied.
|
The cut-off grade of 1g/t for the stated open pit Mineral Resource
estimate is determined from economic parameters that reflect
geotechnical, mining and processing parameters and costs for an
open pit mining operation.
|
Mining factors or assumptions
|
· Assumptions made regarding
possible mining methods, minimum mining dimensions and internal
(or, if applicable, external) mining dilution. It is always
necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable
prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider potential
mining methods, but the assumptions made regarding mining methods
and parameters when estimating Mineral Resources may not always be
rigorous. Where this is the case, this should be reported with an
explanation of the basis of the mining assumptions made.
|
The Resource models assume that a moderate level of mining
selectivity is achieved in open pit mining. It has been assumed
that high quality grade control will be applied to ore/waste
delineation processes using RC drilling, or similar, at a nominal
(and no greater) spacing of 10 metre by 12.5 metre and applying a
pattern sufficient to ensure adequate coverage of the
mineralisation zones.
This is consistent with current
mining practises at Syama.
|
Metallurgical factors or assumptions
|
· The basis for assumptions
or predictions regarding metallurgical amenability. It is always
necessary as part of the process of determining reasonable
prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider potential
metallurgical methods, but the assumptions regarding metallurgical
treatment processes and parameters made when reporting Mineral
Resources may not always be rigorous. Where this is the case, this
should be reported with an explanation of the basis of the
metallurgical assumptions made.
|
No metallurgical factors or assumptions have been made during the
resource estimation process as these will be addressed during the
conversion to Ore Reserves.
|
Environmental factors or assumptions
|
· Assumptions made regarding
possible waste and
process residue disposal options. It is always necessary as part of
the process of determining reasonable prospects for eventual
economic extraction to consider the potential environmental impacts
of the mining and processing operation. While at this stage the
determination of potential environmental impacts, particularly for
a green fields project, may not always be well advanced, the status
of early consideration of these potential environmental impacts
should be reported. Where these aspects have not been considered
this should be reported with an explanation of the environmental
assumptions made.
|
It is a requirement of Decree No.03-594/P-RM of 31 December 2003 of
Malian law that an Environmental and Social Impact Study (Étude
d'Impact Environmental et Social - EIES) must be undertaken to
update the potential environmental and social impacts of the mine's
redevelopment. The EIES for the Syama Gold Mine (including
Tabakoroni) was approved in November 2007 and an Environment Permit
(07- 0054/MEA - SG) was issued by the Ministry of Environment and
Sanitation on 22 November 2007. The Ministry of Environment
conducts timely reviews of the Syama Gold Mine to ensure that the
Company maintains compliance with the EIES guidelines.
At Syama and Tabakoroni, there are
three key practices for disposal of wastes and residues namely,
stacking of waste rock from open pit mining; storage of tailings
from mineral processes; and "tall-stack dispersion" of sulphur
dioxide from the roasting of gold bearing concentrate. All waste
disposal practices are in accordance with the guidelines in the
EIES.
The Environmental and Social
Impact Study - "Société des Mines de Syama, Syama Gold Mine, Mali",
dated 2007 indicated there was minimal potential for acid mine
drainage from waste rock due to the elevated carbonate content
which buffers a potential acid generation. Resolute maintains a
plan for progressive rehabilitation of waste rock landforms as part
of ongoing mine development and waste rock dumping.
The landform of tailings
impoundments does not have a net acid generating potential. The
largest volume is flotation tailings where the sulphide minerals
have already been removed from the host rock. Its mineralogy
includes carbonates which further buffer any acid-formation
potential from sulphides that may also be present.
Cyanide levels in the
leached-calcine tailings are typically less than 50ppm in the weak
acid dissociable form. Groundwater away from the tailings landform
is intercepted by trenches and sump pumps.
Sulphur dioxide is generated from
the roasting of gold concentrate so that gold can be extracted and
refined. Tall-Stack "dispersion" of the sulphur dioxide emission is
monitored continuously. Prevailing weather and dissipation of the
sulphur dioxide is modelled daily to predict the need to pause the
roasting process to meet the air quality criteria set out in the
Environmental & Social Impact Study.
|
Bulk density
|
· Whether assumed or
determined. If assumed, the basis for the assumptions. If
determined, the method used, whether wet or dry, the frequency of
the measurements, the nature, size and representativeness of the
samples.
· The bulk density for bulk
material must have been measured by methods that adequately account
for void spaces (vugs, porosity, etc), moisture and differences
between rock and alteration zones within the
deposit.
· Discuss assumptions for
bulk density estimates used in the evaluation process of the
different materials.
|
No bulk density measurements have been taken at the Porphyry
Zone.
An average SG was applied to the
model by weathering types based on similar deposits at
Syama:
• Oxide
2.12 t/m3
• Transitional 2.38 t/m3
• Fresh
2.72 t/m3
|
Classification
|
· The basis for the
classification of the Mineral
Resources into varying confidence categories.
· Whether appropriate account
has been taken of all
relevant factors (i.e. relative confidence in tonnage/
grade estimations, reliability of input data, confidence in
continuity of geology and metal values, quality, quantity
and distribution of the data).
· Whether the result
appropriately reflects the
Competent Person's view of the deposit.
|
In general, the Inferred Mineral Resource classification is applied
to extensions of mineralised zones on the margins of the deposit
where drill spacing is more than 50m x 50m and the extents of
mineralisation at depth. However, due to the complexity of the
surrounding mineralisation and the low confidence in the geological
interpretation in addition to the estimation method being
unconstrained. The competent person decided to classify the whole
of the deposit to Inferred until more drilling can be
carried out.
The validation of the block model
has confirmed satisfactory correlation of the input data to the
estimated grades and reproduction of data trends.
The Mineral Resource estimates
appropriately reflects the view of the Competent Person.
|
Audits or reviews
|
· The results of any audits
or reviews of Mineral
· Resource estimates.
|
There has been no external review of the Mineral Resource
estimate.
|
Discussion of relative accuracy/ confidence
|
· Where appropriate a
statement of the relative accuracy and confidence level in the
Mineral Resource estimate using an approach or procedure deemed
appropriate by the Competent Person. For example, the application
of statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify the
relative accuracy of the resource within stated confidence limits,
or, if such an approach is not deemed appropriate, a qualitative
discussion of the factors that could affect the relative accuracy
and confidence of the estimate.
· The statement should
specify whether it relates to global or local estimates, and, if
local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be relevant to
technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should include
assumptions made and the procedures used.
· These statements of
relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate should be compared
with production data, where available.
|
The Mineral Resource estimate has been classified based on the
quality of the data collected, the density of data, the confidence
of the geological models and mineralisation models, and the grade
estimation quality. This has been applied to a relative confidence
based on data density and zone confidence for resource
classification. No relative statistical or geostatistical
confidence or risk measure has been generated or
applied.
Mine production data was used in
the validation process and showed to be within 20% of the estimated
tonnes, grade and ounces within the mined area.
|
Section 4 Estimation and Reporting of Ore Reserves
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE
EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Mineral Resource estimate for conversion to Ore
Reserves
|
· Description of the Mineral
Resource estimate used as a basis for the conversion to an Ore
Reserve.
· Clear statement as to
whether the Mineral Resources are reported additional to, or
inclusive of, the Ore Reserve.
|
Resources at Porphyry Zone are reported above a 1g/t cut-off. This
was calculated as a marginal cut-off utilising open pit mining
methods. Material below this cut-off is not included in the
Mineral Resource.
Ore Reserves are the material
reported as a sub-set of the resource, that which can be extracted
from the mine and processed with an economically acceptable
outcome.
Mineral Resources are reported
inclusive of Ore Reserves.
|
Site visits
|
· Comment on any site visits
undertaken by the Competent Person and the outcome of those
visits.
· If no site visits have been
undertaken indicate why this is the case.
|
Mr Scott Atkinson is a member of the Australasian Institute of
Mining and Metallurgy and is a Competent Person who has visited the
site where the project is located.
|
Study status
|
· The type and level of study
undertaken to enable Mineral Resources to be converted to Ore
Reserves.
· The Code requires that a
study to at least Pre-Feasibility Study level has been undertaken
to convert Mineral Resources to Ore Reserves. Such studies will
have been carried out and will have determined a mine plan that is
technically achievable and economically viable, and that material
Modifying Factors have been considered.
|
The Porphyry Zone deposit is adjacent to the Tabakoroni mine which
had a Feasibility study was completed in 2009 with updates in 2012
and 2016.
Tabakoroni has been in continuous
mining operation since August 2018. During this time the
performance the project has shown a positive reconciliation between
mineral resources and gold production and delivered positive
cashflows.
|
Cut-off parameters
|
· The basis of the cut-off
grade(s) or quality parameters applied.
|
A cut-off of 1.1g/t has been applied for Porphyry
Zone
|
Mining factors or assumptions
|
· The method and assumptions
used as reported in the Pre-Feasibility or Feasibility Study to
convert the Mineral Resource to an Ore Reserve (i.e. either by
application of appropriate factors by optimization or by
preliminary or detailed design).
· The choice, nature and
appropriateness of the selected mining method(s) and other mining
parameters including associated design issues such as pre-strip,
access, etc.
· The assumptions made
regarding geotechnical parameters (e.g. pit slopes, stope sizes,
etc.), grade control and pre-production drilling.
· The major assumptions made
and Mineral Resource model used for pit and stope optimization (if
appropriate).
· The mining dilution factors
used.
· The mining recovery factors
used.
· Any minimum mining widths
used.
· The manner in which
Inferred Mineral Resources are utilized in mining studies and the
sensitivity of the outcome to their inclusion.
· The infrastructure
requirements of the selected mining methods.
|
The reported Ore Reserve estimate for Porphyry Zone is based on pit
optimisations conducted using the Lerchs-Grossman (LG) algorithm of
the Whittle software to calculate the optimal pit at specific input
parameters and pit designs. Costs are based on existing contract
mining and haulage rates and site costs which are understood with a
high degree of accuracy.
Mining is undertaken by
conventional open pit methods of drill and blast, followed by load
and haul, utilising mining equipment comprising 120t - 230t diesel
hydraulic excavators and 90t off-highway dump trucks.
Detailed pit design work was
completed based on pit optimisations using Whittle Four-X
optimisation software. Only Indicated Resources were used in the
pit optimisation.
Pit slope parameters for Porphyry
Zone were based on a geotechnical assessment that included a total
of seven specific geotechnical holes. Overall slopes angles are
approximately 40°. All other pits adopt similar overall slope
angles.
Grade control consists of RC
drilling, based on a 5.0mE x 12.5mN drill pattern
The MIK resource estimation
technique used for the Porphyry Zone implicitly incorporates
internal mining dilution at the scale of the assessed SMU so no
additional modifying factor was applied.
|
Metallurgical factors or assumptions
|
· The metallurgical process
proposed and the appropriateness of that process to the style of
mineralization.
· Whether the metallurgical
process is well-tested technology or novel in
nature.
· The nature, amount and
representativeness of metallurgical test work undertaken, the
nature of the metallurgical domaining applied and the corresponding
metallurgical recovery factors applied.
· Any assumptions or
allowances made for deleterious elements.
· The existence of any bulk
sample or pilot scale test work and the degree to which such
samples are considered representative of the ore body as a
whole.
· For minerals that are
defined by a specification, has the ore reserve estimation been
based on the appropriate mineralogy to meet the
specifications?
|
Processing is by conventional primary crushing followed by single
stage SAG milling. Gold recovery is by means of a gravity recovery
circuit and carbon in leach process.
Processing recoveries used are
90%, 80% and 65% for Oxide, Transitional and fresh material
respectively
Mine is operational with good
reconciliation between predicted recoveries and actual
Allowances are made in the
recovery estimates for transitional and fresh ore as the Au
recovery is impacted by some of the gold being hosted in refractory
sulphide and preg-robbing carbon
|
Environmental
|
· The status of studies of
potential environmental impacts of the mining and processing
operation. Details of waste rock characterization and the
consideration of potential sites, status of design options
considered and, where applicable, the status of approvals for
process residue storage and waste dumps should be
reported.
|
An active waste rock characterisation program has been put in place
for Porphyry Zone.
Ore Reserves from Porphyry Zone
will be processed at Syama and tailings storage will be impounded
in existing footprint area approved in the Environmental and Social
Impact Study. Progressive raising of the tailings occurs regularly
with the 9th lift completed in 2019. Routine progress on
the monitoring is reported to government and at stakeholder
meetings in concert with routine inspections by government
representatives.
|
Infrastructure
|
· The existence of
appropriate infrastructure: availability of land for plant
development, power, water, transportation (particularly for bulk
commodities), labour, accommodation; or the ease with which the
infrastructure can be provided, or accessed.
|
All required infrastructure is already in place for the Porphyry
Zone deposit which is within the current the Tabakoroni mine
footprint
|
Costs
|
· The derivation of, or
assumptions made, regarding projected capital costs in the
study.
· The methodology used to
estimate operating costs.
· Allowances made for the
content of deleterious elements.
· The derivation of
assumptions made of metal or commodity price(s), for the principal
minerals and co- products.
· The source of exchange
rates used in the study.
· Derivation of
transportation charges.
· The basis for forecasting
or source of treatment and refining charges, penalties for failure
to meet specification, etc.
· The allowances made for
royalties payable, both Government and private.
|
The Porphyry Zone deposit is adjacent to the Tabakoroni mine, with
established mining operations. Ore is trucked to Syama where it is
processed at Syama's oxide circuit. General and administration
costs are shared between the oxide plant and the sulphide plant
which treats the Syama UG orebody. The Porphyry Zone deposit will
be mined contemporaneously with the Tabakoroni pits using the same
mining and haulage fleet. The mining and haulage rates are based on
known contract rates.
The oxide plant produces gold doré
(without problematic deleterious elements) that is subsequently
refined offsite. Refining costs are not material.
Exchange rates used for planning
purposes are from consensus forecasts provided by external
corporate advisers.
Ad valorem Government royalties of
6% are payable on
gold production.
|
Revenue factors
|
· The derivation of, or
assumptions made regarding
revenue factors including head grade, metal or
commodity price(s) exchange rates, transportation and treatment
charges, penalties, net smelter returns, etc.
· The derivation of
assumptions made of metal or commodity price(s), for the principal
metals, minerals
and co-products.
|
A gold price of US$1,500/oz formed the basis of the Ore
Reserves.
|
Market assessment
|
· The demand, supply and
stock situation for the particular commodity, consumption trends
and factors likely to affect supply and demand into the
future.
· A customer and competitor
analysis along with the identification of likely market windows for
the product.
· Price and volume forecasts
and the basis for these forecasts.
· •or industrial minerals the
customer specification, testing and acceptance requirements prior
to a supply contract.
|
The market for gold is robust with prevailing gold price being
around US$1,850/oz.
Supply and demand are not
considered material to the Ore Reserve calculations.
|
Economic
|
· The inputs to the economic
analysis to produce the net present value (NPV) in the study, the
source and confidence of these economic inputs including estimated
inflation, discount rate, etc.
· NPV ranges and sensitivity
to variations in the significant assumptions and inputs.
|
The financial evaluation undertaken as part of the evaluation of
these open pits indicated a positive net present value (NPV) at a
5% discount rate and operating results to date have exceeded
production and NPV forecasts.
|
Social
|
· The status of agreements
with key stakeholders and matters leading to social license to
operate.
|
The Porphyry Zone falls under the SOMIFI exploitation permit and is
managed by SOMISY SA under Management and Toll Treatment agreements
lodged with the Government of Mali.
It is the intention to encourage
economic development within the local community. During the
operation of Tabakoroni and its satellite deposits the focus has
been on improving farming and health care plus providing access to
water; this will continue to remain a focus.
The Syama Mine Community
Consultative Committee, which includes representation from
Tabakoroni and the villages adjacent to the Syama Satellites, was
established in February 2001 with representatives from local
villages, the Malian Government and SOMISY. Since April 2004 the
Committee has met regularly as a communication forum and to address
community issues and assist with community project proposals; it
continues to meet on the first or second Tuesday of each
month.
|
Other
|
· To the extent relevant, the
impact of the following on the project and/or on the estimation and
classification of the
Ore Reserves:
· Any identified material
naturally occurring risks.
· The status of material
legal agreements and marketing arrangements.
· The status of governmental
agreements and approvals critical to the viability of the project,
such as mineral tenement status, and government and statutory
approvals. There must be reasonable grounds to expect that all
necessary Government approvals will be received within the
timeframes anticipated in the Pre-Feasibility or Feasibility study.
Highlight and discuss the materiality of any unresolved matter that
is dependent on a third party on which extraction of the reserve is
contingent.
|
All current government agreements and approvals are in good
standing and no anticipated changes are expected.
|
Classification
|
· The basis for the
classification of the Ore Reserves into varying confidence
categories.
· Whether the result
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
· The proportion of Probable
Ore Reserves that have been derived from Measured Mineral Resources
(if any).
|
Proved and Probable Ore Reserves were declared based on the
Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources.
The Ore Reserve estimate
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
|
Audits or reviews
|
· The results of any audits
or reviews of Ore Reserve estimates.
|
|
Discussion of relative accuracy/ confidence
|
· Where appropriate a
statement of the relative accuracy and confidence level in the Ore
Reserve estimate using an approach or procedure deemed appropriate
by the Competent Person. For example, the application of
statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify the relative
accuracy of the reserve within stated confidence limits, or, if
such an approach is not deemed appropriate, a qualitative
discussion of the factors which could affect the relative accuracy
and confidence of the estimate.
· The statement should
specify whether it relates to global or local estimates, and, if
local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be relevant to
technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should include
assumptions made and the procedures used.
· Accuracy and confidence
discussions should extend to specific discussions of any applied
Modifying Factors that may have a material impact on Ore Reserve
viability, or for which there are remaining areas of uncertainty at
the current study stage.
· It is recognized that this
may not be possible or appropriate in all circumstances. These
statements of relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate
should be compared with production data, where available.
|
The relative accuracy and confidence of the Ore Reserve estimate is
inherent in the Ore Reserve Classification.
|
|
|
| |
Mako
Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Sampling techniques
|
·
Nature and
quality of sampling (e.g. cut channels, random chips, or specific
specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the
minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or
handheld XRF instruments, etc.). These examples should not be taken
as limiting the broad meaning of sampling.
·
Include
reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity and the
appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems
used.
·
Aspects of the
determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public
Report.
·
In cases where
'industry standard' work has been done this would be relatively
simple (e.g. 'reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m
samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for
fire assay'). In other cases more explanation may be required, such
as where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems.
Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (e.g. submarine
nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed
information.
|
Sampling has been by diamond drill coring and reverse circulation
chip techniques with minor trench and surface sampling.
Diamond core is geologically
logged and sampled to geological contacts with nominal sample
lengths between 0.3m and 4.5m (most commonly 1.5m). Core selected
for assay is systematically cut lengthwise into half core by
diamond blade rock saw, numbered and bagged before dispatch to the
laboratory for analysis.
All core is photographed, wet and
dry.
Reverse circulation chips are
geologically logged and sampled on regular lengths of 1m. Chip
material selected for assay is systematically divided to a 1/8
proportion using a rotary splitter attached to the cyclone sample
recovery system, numbered and bagged before dispatch to the
laboratory for analysis.
|
Drilling techniques
|
·
Drill type
(e.g. core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air
blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc.) and details (e.g. core diameter,
triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit
or other type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method,
etc.).
|
Diamond core drilling with standard inner tubes. NTW diameter
(57.1 mm) to target depth where possible with some smaller NQ2
intervals as tails. Core is marked and oriented.
Reverse Circulation drilling with
4" or 4.5" hammer and 4" rod string to target depth.
|
Drill sample recovery
|
·
Method of
recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results
assessed.
·
Measures taken
to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the
samples.
·
Whether a
relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and whether
sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of
fine/coarse material.
|
Diamond core recoveries are measured in the core trays and recorded
as recovered metres and recovered % as part of the geological
logging process.
Diamond core drilling prior to the
latest deep diamond drilling had just over 96% of core sample
intervals measured (28,701 measurements totalling 46,200m of core)
with core recoveries of 75% or better. Approximately 85% of core
sample intervals measured had core recoveries of 100%. The
percentage core recovery data was examined graphically against the
gold grades and no relationship is evident between core loss and
gold grade in the regions of low core recovery.
In 2016 % core recovery data was
examined graphically against the gold grades and no relationship is
evident between core loss and gold grade in the regions of low
sample recovery.
RC recoveries are monitored by
chip sample weight recording. Of 43 RC holes reviewed in 2016 all
recorded weight/m in consolidated rock material ranged from 19 to
38kg/m (mode=25; mean=25; median=25kg/m) which equates to rock
densities between 2 and 3gcm3.
|
Logging
|
·
Whether core
and chip samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged
to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource
estimation, mining studies and metallurgical
studies.
·
Whether logging
is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean,
channel, etc.) photography.
·
The total
length and percentage of the relevant intersections
logged.
|
Diamond core has been geologically and geotechnically logged to a
level of detail to support appropriate classification and reporting
of a Mineral Resource.
Reverse circulation chip samples
have been geologically logged to a level of detail to support
appropriate classification and reporting of a Mineral
Resource.
Total length of DD logged data is
69,728.01m from total 70,527.01m drilled.
|
Sub-sampling techniques and sample
preparation
|
·
If core,
whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core
taken.
·
If non-core,
whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc. and whether
sampled wet or dry.
·
For all sample
types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample
preparation technique.
·
Quality control
procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise
representivity of samples.
·
Measures taken
to ensure that the sampling is representative of the in situ
material collected, including for instance results for field
duplicate/second-half sampling.
·
Whether sample
sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being
sampled.
|
Core is systematically cut lengthwise into half core with a diamond
saw.
In the initial drill phases
between 2kg and 6kg of broken core sample was dispatched by
contracted truck transport to SGS Mali (Phase 1- 90 holes) or ALS
Mali (Phases 2 and 3 - 88 holes) for sample preparation.
More recent samples (Phase 3 to 5
and the 2018 deep diamond holes) have undergone sample preparation
at the site sample prep laboratory.
The 2018 deep diamond programme
(PWD362 to 420) was prepared onsite with assay pulps analysed by
ALS Loughrea (Ireland).
RC samples representing a 1/8
split are taken directly from the rig mounted cyclone by rotary
splitter, sample weight is recorded, sample is bagged in pre
numbered plastic and sample tickets are inserted and bag is sealed
for transport to preparation facility.
Generally, one of each of the two
control samples (blank or CRM standard) is inserted into the sample
stream every tenth sample. Over the 2018 deep diamond programme A
total of 4,582 samples have had 249 CRM and 260 blanks inserted,
sufficient as per industry standards. An industry standard,
documented process of sample mark-up, core splitting, bagging and
ticketing and recording is in place at the Mako site. The
laboratories sample preparation followed a standard documented
process flow with whole sample crushing (better than 70% passing
2mm) followed by a 1kg riffle split for pulverisation to 75 micron
(better than 85% pass).
Master pulps of 250g were split
and placed in airtight, sealed bags and sent by courier to the
assaying laboratory for analysis.
For the majority of the Phase 1
drilling the mineralised interval sample preparation done at SGS
Mali has been repeated and re-assayed. As a result the nature,
quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation technique are
to industry standard.
Sample size of 2-6kg is
appropriate for the grain size of material.
|
Quality of assay data and laboratory tests
|
·
The nature,
quality and appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory
procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or
total.
·
For geophysical
tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc., the
parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument
make and model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and
their derivation, etc.
·
Nature of
quality control procedures adopted (e.g. standards, blanks,
duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable
levels of accuracy (i.e. lack of bias) and precision have been
established.
|
Au assays are determined by fire assay with AAS finish. Laboratory
and assay procedures are appropriate for Mineral Resource
estimation.
QAQC consisted of standards,
blanks and laboratory duplicates (both coarse and pulp). The QAQC
sample results showed acceptable levels of accuracy and
precision.
The assay data is considered to be
suitable for Mineral Resource estimation.
|
Verification of sampling and assaying
|
·
The
verification of significant intersections by either independent or
alternative company personnel.
·
The use of
twinned holes.
·
Documentation
of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data
storage (physical and electronic) protocols.
·
Discuss any
adjustment to assay data.
|
All aspects of the core sampling, assay procedures and QA/QC
program have been reviewed and were judged to be of industry
standard and suitable for use in the estimation of Mineral
Resources.
Independent sampling has been
undertaken and the results closely match the original
data.
Drill hole assay result data has
been checked against the original hardcopy laboratory assay reports
for a representative number of holes.
Site based checks of the raw assay data have been undertaken to
verify grade intersections were consistent with a visual inspection
of mineralisation in the core.
Below detection limit values
(negatives) have been replaced by background values.
Un-sampled intervals have been
retained as un-sampled (null or blank). The majority of these
intervals occur within the waste domain and have no material impact
on the estimate.
|
Location of data points
|
·
Accuracy and
quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole
surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in
Mineral Resource estimation.
·
Specification
of the grid system used.
·
Quality and
adequacy of topographic control.
|
Drill holes have been surveyed by a contract surveyor (P.C.
Drysdale Land and Engineering Surveyor) using a Leica GS12 GNSS
(GPS) survey system.
Down hole surveys were undertaken
by the drilling contractor using a Reflex Ex-Trac tool with a
reading taken approx. every 50m down the hole.
Cube consulting made independent
verification of the collar surveys of three diamond core in
progress holes (PWD409, 408 and 407) which were all found to be
within an acceptable tolerance of the planned and reported
coordinates. Cube also verified the coordinated positions of laid
out grade control planned holes on the pit floor.
Grid system is based on the UTM28N
grid on the WGS84 ellipsoid. Survey heights are based on PRS097
(with independent checks on AusPos) and are orthometric (i.e.
msl).
A topographic surface was provided
based on a one metre resolution satellite DTM surface of Central
Mako, including the Petowal prospect area, and a number of smaller
resolution (10m x 10m) data files derived from the one metre source
data. The smaller resolution data (10m x 10m) has been used for all
validation and estimation purposes.
|
Data spacing and distribution
|
·
Data spacing
for reporting of Exploration Results.
·
Whether the
data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree
of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral
Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and
classifications applied.
·
Whether sample
compositing has been applied.
|
Data spacing is variable being in the range of 80m x 40m to 20m x
20m. Additionally, a significant area of grade control drilling at
10m x 10m has been completed defining a volume of approximately
four million BCM. This spacing is adequate to determine the
geological and grade continuity for reporting of Measured,
Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources.
Drill samples were composited to
3m for use in the estimate.
|
Orientation of data in relation to geological
structure
|
·
Whether the
orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible
structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the
deposit type.
·
If the
relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation
of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a
sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if
material.
|
The drill hole orientation was designed to intersect the
mineralisation orthogonal to dip and strike of the major
mineralisation bodies. The majority of drill hole azimuths were
between 140° and 160⁰ with dips varying from -50 to -80⁰ below
horizontal. For a small number of holes, different orientations
were selected to target different portions of the mineralisation
depending on localised mineralised structures or
features.
The preliminary RC grade control
programme drilling was
all vertical (azimuth of 0⁰ and dip of -90⁰). Mine grade control
during 2017 and 2018 was primarily drilled on azimuth 140⁰ dipping
-60⁰.
Drilling primarily targeted the
FEL unit which contained the most significant mineralisation
and dipped at
about 20-30⁰ to the
northwest
near surface, steepening to about 45⁰ dip at depth. The drilling
orientation is adequate for a non-biased assessment of the orebody
with respect to interpreted structures and interpreted controls on
mineralisation.
|
Sample security
|
·
The measures
taken to ensure sample security.
|
Labelling and submission of samples complies with industry
standard.
|
Audits or reviews
|
·
The results of
any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and
data.
|
An independent audit of the sample preparation laboratory has been
undertaken in 2018 (Fis, 2018) and the review undertaken at the
project by Cube in August 2018 and both found no material issues
with the sampling methods or data.
|
Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Mineral tenement and land tenure status
|
·
Type, reference
name/number, location and ownership including agreements or
material issues with third parties such as joint ventures,
partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests,
historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental
settings.
·
The security of
the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known
impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the
area.
|
To date no exploration results have been reported on a granted
exploration permit, owned 100% by Petowal Mining Company SA
(Petowal).
The permit is in good
standing.
|
Exploration done by other parties
|
·
Acknowledgment
and appraisal of exploration by other parties.
|
Exploration has been performed by Mako Exploration Company SARL
("MEC"), 100% owned by TORO.
|
Geology
|
·
Deposit type,
geological setting and style of mineralisation.
|
It is currently interpreted that the northeast striking structure
controlled the flow of the gold bearing hydrothermal fluids, with
the preferential chemistry/rheology of the felsic volcanic horizon
acting as a favourable horizon for silicification and the
deposition of the gold-pyrite mineral assemblage. Intensity of gold
mineralisation appears to correlate with the intensity of pyrite
development and exhibits good lateral and vertical continuity
through the mineralised zone.
Mineralisation has a relatively
simple geometry comprising a zone that varies from 30 to 60m in
width, along the 1,700m strike length drilled to date. The zone
dips approximately 20-30⁰ to the northwest near surface, steepening
to approximately 45⁰ dip
at depth.
|
Drill hole Information
|
·
A summary of
all information material to the understanding of the exploration
results including a tabulation of the following information for all
Material drill holes:
o easting and northing of the
drill hole collar
o elevation or RL (Reduced
Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole
collar
o dip and azimuth of the
hole
o down hole length and
interception depth
o Whole
length.
·
If the
exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the
information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract
from the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should
clearly explain why this is
the case.
|
Easting, Northing and RL of the drill hole collars are based on the
UTM28N grid on the WGS84 ellipsoid. Survey heights are based on
PRS097 (with independent checks on AusPos) and are orthometric
(i.e. msl).
The MRE has used drill hole collar
RL derived from the topographical surface.
Dip is the inclination of the hole
from the horizontal. For example, a vertically down drilled hole
from the surface is -90°. Azimuth is reported in degrees as the
grid direction toward which the hole is drilled.
Down hole length of the hole is
the distance from the surface to the end of the hole, as measured
along the drill trace. Intersection depth is the distance down the
hole as measured along the drill trace. Intersection width is the
downhole distance of an intersection as measured along the drill
trace.
Drill hole length is the distance
from the surface to the end of the hole, as measured along the
drill trace.
|
Data aggregation methods
|
·
In reporting
Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or
minimum grade truncations (e.g. cutting of high grades) and cut-off
grades are usually Material and should be stated.
·
Where aggregate
intercepts incorporate short lengths of high grade results and
longer lengths of low grade results, the procedure used for such
aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such
aggregations should be shown in detail.
·
The assumptions
used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly
stated.
|
Gold assay intercepts were composited to 3m length down the hole,
using length weighting, in order to provide a uniform sample
support size for grade estimation.
High grade cuts have been applied
to gold grade composites, but only for use in producing check
estimates. The primary, reported estimates were based on a Uniform
Conditioning approach which used cut grade values.
The assay intervals are reported
as down hole length as the true width variable is not
known.
Gold assays are rounded to two
decimal places.
No metal equivalent reporting is
used or applied.
|
Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept
lengths
|
·
These
relationships are particularly important in the reporting of
Exploration Results.
·
If the geometry
of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is
known, its nature should be reported.
·
If it is not
known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be
a clear statement to this effect (e.g. 'down hole length, true
width not known').
|
The intersection width is measured down the hole trace and may not
be the true width.
All drill results are downhole
intervals only due to the variable orientation of the
mineralisation.
|
Diagrams
|
·
Appropriate
maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts
should be included for any significant discovery being reported
These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill
hole collar locations and appropriate sectional views.
|
A plan view is contained within this document. New cross-sectional
interpretations are included.
|
Balanced reporting
|
·
Where
comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not
practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades
and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of
Exploration Results.
|
Diamond and RC drill holes forming the basis of the Mineral
Resource estimate have been reported previously as part of the 2018
MRE. Additional drilling has informed the 2018 update.
|
Other substantive exploration data
|
·
Other
exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported
including (but not limited to): geological observations;
geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk
samples - size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results;
bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics;
potential deleterious or contaminating substances.
|
No other exploration data is considered meaningful and material to
this document.
|
Further work
|
·
The nature and
scale of planned further work (e.g. tests for lateral extensions or
depth extensions or large-scale step-out
drilling).
·
Diagrams
clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including
the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas,
provided this information is not commercially
sensitive.
|
Future exploration may involve the drilling of more drill holes,
both diamond core and reverse circulation, to further extend the
mineralised zones and to collect additional detailed data on known
mineralized zones. Geophysical exploration is also planned as part
of the future exploration of the permit.
|
|
|
| |
Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE
EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Database
integrity
|
·
Measures taken to ensure that data has not been corrupted by, for example, transcription or keying errors, between its initial
collection and its use for Mineral Resource estimation purposes.
·
Data
validation procedures used.
|
Database is maintained by PMC who compile and validate all data
files on the project.
Cube completed validation checks
on the database including checks for overlapping sample intervals,
checks on minimum and maximum assays, depths, azimuths, dips and
co-ordinates for consistency. No material errors were identified.
Cube undertook site based checks of the raw assay data to verify
that grade intersections were consistent with a visual inspection
of mineralisation in the core.
A number of drill hole collar
positions were also verified in the field.
|
Site visits
|
·
Comment on any
site visits undertaken by the Competent Person and the outcome of
those visits.
·
If no site
visits have been undertaken indicate why this
is the case.
|
The competent person has visited site on multiple
occasions.
|
Geological interpretation
|
·
Confidence in
(or conversely, the uncertainty of) the geological interpretation
of the mineral deposit.
·
Nature of the
data used and of any assumptions made.
·
The effect, if
any, of alternative interpretations on Mineral Resource
estimation.
·
The use of
geology in guiding and controlling Mineral Resource
estimation.
·
The factors
affecting continuity both of grade and geology.
|
The geological confidence is considered to be moderate to
high.
The mineralised volume at Petowal
has been based on a drill section interpretation of mineralisation
defined by a lower limit gold grade of 0.2 g/t Au, along with the
observed close association between mineralisation and the felsic
lithological unit. The overall shape and trend of the
mineralisation was guided by the form of the felsic unit and its
contacts with the surrounding basalt. Four mineralisation domains,
the first contained within the felsic unit, the second and third in
the adjacent footwall basalt and the fourth in the hanging wall
basalt unit, were defined (Domains 100 200 300 400, respectively).
A separate Domain (500) was created based on mineralisation 450m
northwest of the Mako deposit. An overall envelope, called Domain 1
encapsulating all the material not contained within Domains 100,
200, 300, 400 and 500 out to the limit of drill coverage, was also
created. The resulting volumes encapsulate the complete mineralised
distribution and produce a model that reduces the risk of
conditional bias that could be introduced where the constraining
interpretation and data selection is based on a significantly
higher grade than the natural geological grade cut-off.
The factors affecting continuity
both of grade and geology are most likely to be associated with
structural controls and local complexity, the knowledge of which is
limited with the current spacing of information. The broad approach
to the mineralisation modelling is an attempt to model an unbiased
interpretation.
|
Dimensions
|
·
The extent and
variability of the Mineral Resource expressed as length (along
strike or otherwise), plan width, and depth below surface to the
upper and lower limits of the Mineral Resource.
|
The gold mineralisation identified to date varies from 30m to 60m
in width, along the 1,700m strike length drilled to date. The zone
dips approximately 20-30⁰ to the northwest near surface, steepening
to approximately 45⁰ dip at depth.
|
Estimation and modelling techniques
|
·
The nature and
appropriateness of the estimation technique(s) applied and key
assumptions, including treatment of extreme grade values,
domaining, interpolation parameters and maximum distance of
extrapolation from data points. If a computer assisted estimation
method was chosen include a description of computer software and
parameters used.
·
The
availability of check estimates, previous estimates and/or mine
production records and whether the Mineral Resource estimate takes
appropriate account of such data.
·
The assumptions
made regarding recovery of by- products.
·
Estimation of
deleterious elements or other non-grade variables of economic
significance (e.g. sulphur for acid mine drainage
characterization).
·
In the case of
block model interpolation, the block size in relation to the
average sample spacing and the search employed.
·
In the case of
block model interpolation, the block size in relation to the
average sample spacing and the search employed.
·
Any assumptions
behind modelling of selective mining units.
·
Any assumptions
about correlation between variables.
·
Description of
how the geological interpretation was used to control the resource
estimates.
·
Discussion of
basis for using or not using grade cutting or
capping.
·
The process of
validation, the checking process used, the comparison of model data
to drill hole data, and use of reconciliation data if
available.
|
Three metre downhole composite gold grade data were interpolated
into 20mE x 20mN x 5mRL sized panels using Ordinary Kriging
(OK).
The minimum number of composites
was set at 8 and the maximum number of composites was set at either
16 (Domain 100), 26 (Domain 200) or 24 (Domains 300, 400 and
4000).
The maximum search ellipse radius was set at either 180m (Domain
100), 160 (Domain 200), 120m (Domain 300), 200m (Domain 400) or
300m (Domain 4000). The orientation of the variogram model and
search ellipse was dynamically set according to the shape of the
felsic hanging wall and footwall, as well the trend of high grade
mineralisation within the felsic unit.
Change of Support (CoS)
calculations were conducted, conditioned to the panel grade
estimates, for selectivity on 5mE x 5mN x 2.5mRL SMU-sized blocks
in order to produce a recoverable resource estimate. The
Gaussian-based Uniform Conditioning approach was applied to the OK
check grade estimates. An information effect correction was applied
during the CoS calculations, to account for a future theoretical
grade control drill configuration of 10mE x 10mN x 1mRL. The CoS
process yields a set of array variables, stored in the panel block
model, detailing the estimates for tonnage, grade and metal above a
range of grade cut-offs.
A process of localisation was
completed, by which the output of the CoS is mapped into single
grade estimate per 5mE x 5mN x 2.5mRL block in an SMU block model,
which comprises the final product of the grade
estimation.
Domain 500 was estimated using ID2
methodology. Due to the limited number of samples within the domain
a robust variogram could not be produced. Two passes were used with
second pass having double the initial search radii of
45m.
Surpac Mining software 6.9 and
Isatis were used for estimation.
No by-product recoveries were
considered.
Estimations of density were also
made with this Mineral Resource estimation.
Block model validation was
undertaken globally by comparing the mean LUC block grade estimates
to the mean of the informing composite grades on a domain by domain
basis. The LUC estimates were also compared to the mean grade of a
check ID2 estimation.
|
Moisture
|
·
Whether the
tonnages are estimated on a dry basis or with natural moisture, and
the method of determination of the moisture content.
|
Moisture was not considered in the density assignment.
|
Cut-off parameters
|
·
The basis of
the adopted cut-off grade(s) or quality
parameters applied.
|
A nominal lower cut-off grade of 0.2g/t Au was used to define the
mineralised domains to encompass the complete mineralised
distribution and produce a model that reduces the risk of
conditional bias that could be introduced where the constraining
interpretation and data selection is based on a significantly
higher grade than the natural geological grade
cut-off.
The cut-off grade for reporting
(above 0.5g/t Au) was used in line with the previous resource
reporting and is based on the results of Whittle optimisation
shells using cost and recovery data sourced from the operation of
the open pit mine by PMC during 2017-18.
A Whittle optimisation shell using
these operational costs and a gold price of US$2,000/ounce has been
used to limit the reported MRE to that with reasonable expectations
of economic exploitation.
|
Mining factors or assumptions
|
·
Assumptions
made regarding possible mining methods, minimum mining dimensions
and internal (or, if applicable, external) mining dilution.
It is always necessary as part of the process of determining
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider
potential mining methods, but the assumptions made regarding mining
methods and parameters when estimating Mineral Resources may not
always be rigorous. Where this is the case, this should be reported
with an explanation of the basis of the mining assumptions
made.
|
The shallow occurrence of the mineralisation indicates that open
pit mining is appropriate for Petowal in line with other deposits
in the area.
The estimation methodology used results in an amount of edge
dilution being incorporated into the blocks of the model. No
account of mining loss has been incorporated.
|
Metallurgical factors or assumptions
|
·
The basis for
assumptions or predictions regarding metallurgical amenability. It
is always necessary as part of the process of determining
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider
potential metallurgical methods, but the assumptions regarding
metallurgical treatment processes and parameters made when
reporting Mineral Resources may not always be rigorous. Where this
is the case, this should be reported with an explanation of the
basis of the metallurgical assumptions made.
|
No specific assumptions were made regarding metallurgical factors
for this estimate.
Metallurgical test work on the
mineralisation commenced in 2012 and is ongoing.
|
Environmental factors or assumptions
|
·
Assumptions
made regarding possible waste and process residue disposal options.
It is always necessary as part of the process of determining
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider
the potential environmental impacts of the mining and processing
operation. While at this stage the determination of potential
environmental impacts, particularly for a green fields project, may
not always be well advanced, the status of early consideration of
these potential environmental impacts should be reported. Where
these aspects have not been considered this should be reported with
an explanation of the environmental assumptions made.
|
No assumptions were made regarding environmental
restrictions.
|
Bulk density
|
·
Whether assumed
or determined. If assumed, the basis for the assumptions. If
determined, the method used, whether wet or dry, the frequency of
the measurements, the nature, size and representativeness of the
samples.
·
The bulk
density for bulk material must have been measured by methods that
adequately account for void spaces (vugs, porosity, etc), moisture
and differences between rock and alteration zones within the
deposit.
·
Discuss
assumptions for bulk density estimates used in the evaluation
process of the different materials.
|
Specific gravity values for the Petowal Prospect have been measured
based on the Archimedean Principle using the immersion method for
individual core samples. A total of 16,078 density measurements
were available for use, with the vast majority of these being in
fresh rock below the saprock and laterite domains. This data has
been used as the basis of the block model bulk density.
Visual inspection shows a clear
relationship between lithology and density in fresh rock. No
relationship between density and sulphur content or gold content
could be established.
A default bulk density of
1.70t/m3 was assigned to the thin laterite horizon
capping the deposit and to the underlying saprock.
A default bulk density of
2.46t/m3 was assigned to soft (oxidised?)
rock.
In fresh rock, Ordinary Kriging
was used to estimate density, with the variogram and search
neighbourhood being dynamically oriented as per the gold grade
estimation. Default values for un-estimated fresh rock were set as
undifferentiated rock=2.86t/m3; fresh UBU
2.99t/m3; fresh LBU 2.96t/m3 and fresh FEL
2.75t/m3, fresh RHD 2.69t/m3.
|
Classification
|
·
The basis for
the classification of the Mineral Resources into varying confidence
categories.
·
Whether
appropriate account has been taken of all relevant factors (i.e.
relative confidence in tonnage/grade estimations, reliability of
input data, confidence in continuity of geology
and metal values, quality, quantity and distribution of the
data).
·
Whether the
result appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
|
The Measured, Indicated and Inferred classification is based on the
confidence in the continuity of geology and mineralisation and
quality/confidence in the estimation and quality of assay data and
bulk density data. Sectional wireframe interpretations encompass
material of Measured and Indicated classification. The
classification is Measured where it is informed by 20m spaced
drilling on 20m spaced sections or better, the slope of regression
estimation quality parameter is greater than 0.8. It is classified
as Indicated where it is informed by 20m to 40m spaced drilling on
40m spaced sections or better, the slope of regression estimation
quality parameter is greater than 0.7.
Inferred classification is
informed by 40m spaced drilling on 80m spaced sections, or
better.
The Mineral Resource estimate
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
|
Audits or reviews
|
·
The results of
any audits or reviews of Mineral
·
Resource
estimates.
|
No external reviews have been completed.
|
Discussion of relative accuracy/ confidence
|
·
Where
appropriate a statement of the relative accuracy and confidence
level in the Mineral Resource estimate using an approach or
procedure deemed appropriate by the Competent Person. For example,
the application of statistical or geostatistical procedures to
quantify the relative accuracy of the resource within stated
confidence limits, or, if such an approach is not deemed
appropriate, a qualitative discussion of the factors that could
affect the relative accuracy and confidence of the
estimate.
·
The statement
should specify whether it relates to global or local estimates,
and, if local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be
relevant to technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should
include assumptions made and the procedures used.
·
These
statements of relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate
should be compared with production data, where
available.
|
Although the estimate for gold is considered to be without bias, it
is for the some of the estimated volume based on relatively wide
spaced data. The estimate is therefore of moderate confidence and
expected to be of moderate relative accuracy at the local (SMU)
scale when drilling density exceeds 20m x 20m. Infill grade control
drilling will be required to improve the confidence of the local
estimate.
The LUC estimate has been compared
to ID estimates and in a limited volume to an OK estimate of close
spaced grade control drilling. Differences have been identified,
however these do not exceed expectations and no material issues
have been identified in these comparisons and the LUC estimate
appropriately represents the source data.
|
|
|
| |
Section 4 Estimation and Reporting of Ore Reserves
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE
EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Mineral Resource estimate for conversion to Ore
Reserves
|
·
Description of
the Mineral Resource estimate used as a basis for the conversion to
an Ore Reserve.
·
Clear statement
as to whether the Mineral Resources are reported additional to, or
inclusive of, the Ore Reserve.
|
Ore Reserves are the material reported as a sub-set of the
resource, that which can be extracted from the mine and processed
with an economically acceptable outcome. Mineral Resources are
reported inclusive of Ore Reserves.
|
Site visits
|
·
Comment on any
site visits undertaken by the Competent Person and the outcome of
those visits.
·
If no site
visits have been undertaken indicate why this is
the case.
|
The Competent Person, Mr Kitwa Ndjibu, is a full-time employee of
Resolute Mining Ltd and a Member of the Australasian Institute of
Mining and Metallurgy. He conducted a site visit to the project
area in October 2022.
|
Study status
|
·
The type and
level of study undertaken to enable Mineral Resources to be
converted to Ore Reserves.
·
The Code
requires that a study to at least Pre-Feasibility Study level has
been undertaken to convert Mineral Resources to Ore Reserves. Such
studies will have been carried out and will have determined a mine
plan that is technically achievable and economically viable, and
that material Modifying Factors have been considered.
|
A mining study update was conducted by Mining Focus Consultants Pty
Ltd in July 2020 based on the 2015 Definitive feasibility study
Mako open pit has been in continuous mining operation since August
2017. During this time the performance of the open pit has shown a
positive reconciliation between mineral resources and gold
production and delivered positive cashflows. Primary contributors
to the study were: · Mining Focus Consultants
|
Cut-off parameters
|
·
The basis of
the cut-off grade(s) or quality
parameters applied.
|
A Mill breakeven cut-off grade (COG) change from 0.6 g/t to 0.9 g/t
gold has been applied for Mako to account for the increase to the
long-term processing costs.
|
Mining factors or assumptions
|
·
The method and
assumptions used as reported in the
Pre-Feasibility or Feasibility Study to convert the Mineral
Resource to an Ore Reserve (i.e. either by application of
appropriate factors by optimization or by preliminary or detailed
design).
·
The choice,
nature and appropriateness of the selected mining method(s) and
other mining parameters including associated design issues such as
pre-strip, access, etc.
·
The assumptions
made regarding geotechnical parameters (e.g. pit slopes, stope
sizes, etc.), grade control and
pre-production drilling.
·
The major
assumptions made and Mineral Resource model used for pit and stope
optimization (if appropriate).
·
The mining
dilution factors used.
·
The mining
recovery factors used.
·
Any minimum
mining widths used.
·
The manner in
which Inferred Mineral Resources are utilized in mining studies and
the sensitivity of the outcome to their
inclusion.
·
The
infrastructure requirements of the selected mining
methods.
|
· Mako
operations are open pit mining methods.
· Whittle pit shell optimisations were conducted as component
of the mining study. ·
· Ground conditions at Mako are good with overall slope angle
55° with batter face angle of 75°. ·
· Footwall slope is on average 45 degrees in line with the dip
of the orebody. ·
· The
Resource model was a diluted model; no additional dilution is
required. ·
· 95%
Mining recovery used. ·
· No
Inferred Mineral Resource is included within the Reserve.
·
· No
additional infrastructure is required for the remaining mine
life.
|
Metallurgical factors or assumptions
|
·
The
metallurgical process proposed and the appropriateness of that
process to the style of mineralization.
·
Whether the
metallurgical process is well-tested technology or novel in
nature.
·
The nature,
amount and representativeness of metallurgical test work
undertaken, the nature of the metallurgical domaining applied and
the corresponding metallurgical recovery factors
applied.
·
Any assumptions
or allowances made for deleterious elements.
·
The existence
of any bulk sample or pilot scale test work and the degree to which
such samples are considered representative of the ore body as a
whole.
·
For minerals
that are defined by a specification, has the ore reserve estimation
been based on the appropriate mineralogy to meet the
specifications?
|
· Different recovery is used for different ore types. Basalt
and Felsic ore have 90% and 95% recoveries respectively. The
mentioned recoveries are in line with current plant performance.
·
· Recovery process is well tested and performing to
expectation. ·
· No
deleterious elements, no organics or other elements impacting on Au
recovery
|
Environmental
|
·
The status of
studies of potential environmental impacts of the mining and
processing operation. Details of waste rock characterization and
the consideration of potential sites, status of design options
considered and, where applicable, the status of approvals for
process residue storage and waste dumps should be reported.
|
No acid generation from the waste dumps have been observed in line
with test work expectations. No acid forming metallurgy
within waste rock material.
|
Infrastructure
|
·
The existence
of appropriate infrastructure: availability of land for plant
development, power, water, transportation (particularly for bulk
commodities), labour, accommodation; or the ease with which the
infrastructure can be provided, or accessed.
|
All infrastructure for the Mako project has been
completed.
Water supply dams, TSF dams have
been completed with ongoing TSF lifts planned through the remaining
mine life. All power station and camp accommodation
infrastructure has been completed.
|
Costs
|
·
The derivation
of, or assumptions made, regarding projected capital costs in the
study.
·
The methodology
used to estimate operating costs.
·
Allowances made
for the content of deleterious elements.
·
The derivation
of assumptions made of metal or commodity price(s), for the
principal minerals and co- products.
·
The source of
exchange rates used in the study.
·
Derivation of
transportation charges.
·
The basis for
forecasting or source of treatment and refining charges, penalties
for failure to meet specification, etc.
·
The allowances
made for royalties payable, both Government and
private.
|
Royalties paid are variable dependent on gold price At 1500 the
gold royalty is 3.53%. at 1800 $/oz the royalty is
3.8%
Costs used are taken from mine
actuals and Mining contractor unit rates.
|
Revenue factors
|
·
The derivation
of, or assumptions made regarding revenue factors including head
grade, metal or commodity price(s) exchange rates, transportation
and treatment charges, penalties, net smelter returns,
etc.
·
The derivation
of assumptions made of metal or commodity price(s), for the
principal metals, minerals and co-products.
|
A gold price of US$1,500/oz formed the basis of the Ore
Reserves. Gold price used for planning purposes are from
consensus forecasts provided by external corporate
advisers.
No penalties are incurred for
deleterious material.
No revenue received from
co-products.
|
Market assessment
|
·
The demand,
supply and stock situation for the particular commodity,
consumption trends and factors likely to affect supply and demand
into the future.
·
A customer and
competitor analysis along with the identification of likely market
windows for the product.
·
Price and
volume forecasts and the basis for these
forecasts.
·
For industrial
minerals the customer specification, testing and acceptance
requirements prior to a supply contract.
|
The market for gold is robust with prevailing gold price being well
above US$1,500/oz.
Supply and demand are not
considered material to the Ore Reserve calculations.
|
Economic
|
·
The inputs to
the economic analysis to produce the net present value (NPV) in the
study, the source and confidence of these economic inputs including
estimated inflation, discount rate, etc.
·
NPV ranges and
sensitivity to variations in the significant assumptions and
inputs.
|
The financial evaluation undertaken as part of the evaluation
indicated a positive net present value (NPV) at a 7% annual
discount rate. The following major economic inputs were
used:
· Costs as previous described
· Gold
price of US$1500/oz
· Royalties of 3.5%
|
Social
|
·
The status of
agreements with key stakeholders and matters leading to social
license to operate.
|
The government of Senegal has a 10% free carried interest in the
operation.
No other stakeholder agreements in
place.
|
Other
|
·
To the extent
relevant, the impact of the following on the project and/or on the
estimation and classification of the Ore
Reserves:
·
Any identified
material naturally occurring risks.
·
The status of
material legal agreements and marketing
arrangements.
·
The status of
governmental agreements and approvals critical to the viability of
the project, such as mineral tenement status, and government and
statutory approvals. There must be reasonable grounds to expect
that all necessary Government approvals will be received within the
timeframes anticipated in the Pre-Feasibility or Feasibility study.
Highlight and discuss the materiality of any unresolved matter that
is dependent on a third party on which extraction of the reserve is
contingent.
|
No additional naturally occurring risks. No flood risk, low
seismicity risk.
|
Classification
|
·
The basis for
the classification of the Ore Reserves into varying confidence
categories.
·
Whether the
result appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
·
The proportion
of Probable Ore Reserves that have been derived from Measured
Mineral Resources (if any).
|
The Ore Reserve estimate appropriately reflects the Competent
Person's view of the deposit.
|
Audits or reviews
|
·
The results of
any audits or reviews of Ore Reserve estimates.
|
|
Discussion of relative accuracy/ confidence
|
·
Where
appropriate a statement of the relative accuracy and confidence
level in the Ore Reserve estimate using an approach or procedure
deemed appropriate by the Competent Person. For example, the
application of statistical or geostatistical procedures to quantify
the relative accuracy of the reserve within stated confidence
limits, or, if such an approach is not deemed appropriate, a
qualitative discussion of the factors which could affect the
relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate.
·
The statement
should specify whether it relates to global or local estimates,
and, if local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be
relevant to technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should
include assumptions made and the procedures used.
·
Accuracy and
confidence discussions should extend to specific discussions of any
applied Modifying Factors that may have a material impact on Ore
Reserve viability, or for which there are remaining areas of
uncertainty at the current study stage.
·
It is
recognized that this may not be possible or appropriate in all
circumstances. These statements of relative accuracy and confidence
of the estimate should be compared with production data, where
available.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
Tomboronkoto
Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
Sampling techniques
|
·
Nature and
quality of sampling (e.g. cut channels, random chips, or specific
specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the
minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or
handheld XRF instruments, etc.). These examples should not be taken
as limiting the broad meaning of sampling.
·
Include
reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity and the
appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems
used.
·
Aspects of the
determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public
Report.
·
In cases where
'industry standard' work has been done this would be relatively
simple (e.g. 'reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m
samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for
fire assay'). In other cases more explanation may be required, such
as where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems.
Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (e.g. submarine
nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed
information.
|
Sampling has been by diamond drill coring and reverse circulation
chip.
Diamond core has been geologically
logged and sampled to geological contacts with nominal sample
lengths between 0.3m and 4.5m (most commonly 1m). Core selected for
assay is systematically cut lengthwise into half core by diamond
blade rock saw, numbered and bagged before dispatch to the
laboratory for analysis.
All core is photographed, wet and
dry.
Reverse circulation chips are
geologically logged and sampled on regular lengths of 1m. Chip
material selected for assay is systematically divided to a 1/8
proportion using a rotary splitter attached to the cyclone sample
recovery system, numbered and bagged before dispatch to the
laboratory for analysis.
|
Drilling techniques
|
·
Drill type
(e.g. core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air
blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc.) and details (e.g. core diameter,
triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit
or other type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method,
etc.).
|
Diamond core drilling with standard inner tubes. NTW diameter
(57.1 mm) to target depth where possible with some smaller NQ2
intervals as tails. Core is marked and oriented.
Reverse Circulation drilling with
4" or 4.5" hammer and 4" rod string to target depth.
|
Drill sample recovery
|
·
Method of
recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results
assessed.
·
Measures taken
to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the
samples.
·
Whether a
relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and whether
sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of
fine/coarse material.
|
Diamond core recoveries are measured in the core trays and recorded
as recovered metres and recovered % as part of the geological
logging process.
RC recoveries are monitored by
chip sample weight recording. Sample weights have been analysed for
cyclicity with no relationship between sample weight and depth
noted.
|
Logging
|
·
Whether core
and chip samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged
to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource
estimation, mining studies and metallurgical
studies.
·
Whether logging
is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean,
channel, etc.) photography.
·
The total
length and percentage of the relevant intersections
logged.
|
Diamond core has been geologically and geotechnically logged to a
level of detail to support appropriate classification and reporting
of a Mineral Resource.
Reverse circulation chip samples
have been geologically logged to a level of detail to support
appropriate classification and reporting of a Mineral
Resource.
Total length of DD logged is
1,242m. Total length of RC logged is 12,986m.
|
Sub-sampling techniques and sample
preparation
|
·
If core,
whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core
taken.
·
If non-core,
whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc. and whether
sampled wet or dry.
·
For all sample
types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample
preparation technique.
·
Quality control
procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise
representivity of samples.
·
Measures taken
to ensure that the sampling is representative of the in situ
material collected, including for instance results for field
duplicate/second-half sampling.
·
Whether sample
sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being
sampled.
|
Historic core has been systematically cut lengthwise into half core
with a diamond saw.
RC samples representing a 1/8
split are taken directly from the rig mounted cyclone by rotary
splitter, sample weight is recorded, sample is bagged in pre
numbered plastic and sample tickets are inserted and bag is sealed
for transport to preparation facility.
Generally, one of each of the two
control samples (blank or CRM standard) is inserted into the sample
stream every tenth sample. Over the 2018 deep diamond programme. An
industry standard, documented process of sample mark-up, core
splitting, bagging and ticketing and recording is in place at the
Mako site. The laboratories sample preparation followed a standard
documented process flow with whole sample crushing (better than 70%
passing 2mm) followed by a 1kg riffle split for pulverisation to 75
micron (better than 85% pass).
Master pulps of 250g were split
and placed in airtight, sealed bags and sent by courier to the
assaying laboratory for analysis.
Sample size of 2-6kg is
appropriate for the grain size of material.
|
Quality of assay data and laboratory tests
|
·
The nature,
quality and appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory
procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or
total.
·
For geophysical
tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc., the
parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument
make and model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and
their derivation, etc.
·
Nature of
quality control procedures adopted (e.g. standards, blanks,
duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable
levels of accuracy (i.e. lack of bias) and precision have been
established.
|
Au assays are determined by fire assay with AAS finish. Laboratory
and assay procedures are appropriate for Mineral Resource
estimation.
QAQC consisted of standards,
blanks and laboratory duplicates (both coarse and pulp). The QAQC
sample results showed acceptable levels of accuracy and
precision.
The assay data is considered to be
suitable for Mineral Resource estimation.
|
Verification of sampling and assaying
|
·
The
verification of significant intersections by either independent or
alternative company personnel.
·
The use of
twinned holes.
·
Documentation
of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data
storage (physical and electronic) protocols.
·
Discuss any
adjustment to assay data.
|
All aspects of the core sampling, assay procedures and QA/QC
program have been reviewed and were judged to be suitable for use
in the estimation of Mineral Resources.
Drill hole assay result data has
been checked against the original hardcopy laboratory assay reports
for a representative number of holes.
Below detection limit values
(negatives) have been replaced by background values.
Un-sampled intervals have been
retained as un-sampled (null or blank). All of these intervals
occur within the waste domain and have no material impact on the
estimate.
|
Location of data points
|
·
Accuracy and
quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole
surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in
Mineral Resource estimation.
·
Specification
of the grid system used.
·
Quality and
adequacy of topographic control.
|
Drill holes have been surveyed by the Mako Mine staff surveyors
using a Leica GS14, GS15 and GS18 DGPS.
Down hole surveys were undertaken
by the drilling contractor using a Reflex DeviGyro tool with a
reading taken. every 3m down the hole.
Grid system is based on the UTM28N
grid on the WGS84 ellipsoid. Survey heights are based on PRS097
(with independent checks on AusPos) and are orthometric (i.e.
msl).
A topographic surface with 1m
resolution has been generated from a 2022 Lidar survey of the
Tomboronkoto area.
|
Data spacing and distribution
|
·
Data spacing
for reporting of Exploration Results.
·
Whether the
data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree
of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral
Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and
classifications applied.
·
Whether sample
compositing has been applied.
|
Data spacing is variable across the deposit, ranging from 50x50m at
the periphery to 25x25m in the more densely drilled core. This
spacing is adequate to determine the geological and grade
continuity for reporting of an Inferred Mineral
Resources.
Drill samples were composited to
1m for use in the estimate.
|
Orientation of data in relation to geological
structure
|
·
Whether the
orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible
structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the
deposit type.
·
If the
relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation
of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a
sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if
material.
|
Geological structures are interpreted to be steeply-dipping to the
south-southeast. Drilling intersects structures from the north and
south sides, generally dipping -60⁰ below horizontal, with azimuths
either at approximately 340⁰ or 160⁰.
Drilling primarily targeted the
granodiorite unit which contained the most significant
mineralisation and dipped at about 70⁰ to the south-southeast.
The drilling orientation is adequate for a
non-biased assessment of the orebody with respect to interpreted
structures and interpreted controls on mineralisation.
|
Sample security
|
·
The measures
taken to ensure sample security.
|
Labelling and submission of samples complies with industry
standard.
|
Audits or reviews
|
·
The results of
any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and
data.
|
An independent audit of the sample preparation laboratory has been
undertaken in 2018 (Fis, 2018) found no material issues with the
sampling methods or data.
|
|
|
| |
Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results
CRITERIA
|
JORC CODE EXPLANATION
|
COMMENTARY
|
|
Mineral tenement and land tenure status
|
·
Type, reference
name/number, location and ownership including agreements or
material issues with third parties such as joint ventures,
partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests,
historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental
settings.
·
The security of
the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known
impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the
area.
|
To date no exploration results have been reported on a granted
exploration permit, owned 100% by Petowal Mining Company SA
(Petowal).
The permit is in good
standing.
|
Exploration done by other parties
|
·
Acknowledgment
and appraisal of exploration by other parties.
|
Past exploration has been performed by Ashanti Gold and
Randgold Resources on a previously held Research Permit which was
relinquished prior to being held by Ardimines SARL. Randgold
had undertaken soil geochemistry, surface mapping and drilling on
the entire Research Permit. Regional auger drilling
identified gold anomalism which Ashanti Gold followed up with
Diamond and Reverse Circulation drilling and trenching on the
Tomboronkoto prospect. Subsequently Randgold undertook further DD
drilling and trenching.
|
Geology
|
·
Deposit type,
geological setting and style of mineralisation.
|
Mineralisation is currently interpreted to be within a shear in the
granodiorite unit. Intensity of gold mineralisation appears to
correlate with the intensity of pyrite development and exhibits
good lateral and vertical continuity through the mineralised
zone.
Mineralisation has a relatively
simple geometry comprising a zone that varies from 30 to 60m in
width, along the 1,700m strike length drilled to date. The zone
dips approximately 70⁰ to the south-southeast.
|
Drill hole Information
|
·
A summary of
all information material to the understanding of the exploration
results including a tabulation of the following information for all
Material drill holes:
o easting and northing of the
drill hole collar
o elevation or RL (Reduced
Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole
collar
o dip and azimuth of the
hole
o down hole length and
interception depth
o Whole
length.
·
If the
exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the
information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract
from the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should
clearly explain why this is
the case.
|
Easting, Northing and RL of the drill hole collars are based on the
UTM28N grid on the WGS84 ellipsoid. Survey heights are based on
PRS097 (with independent checks on AusPos) and are orthometric
(i.e. msl).
The MRE has used drill hole collar
RL derived from the topographical surface.
Dip is the inclination of the hole
from the horizontal. For example, a vertically down drilled hole
from the surface is -90°. Azimuth is reported in degrees as the
grid direction toward which the hole is drilled.
Down hole length of the hole is
the distance from the surface to the end of the hole, as measured
along the drill trace. Intersection depth is the distance down the
hole as measured along the drill trace. Intersection width is the
downhole distance of an intersection as measured along the drill
trace.
Drill hole length is the distance
from the surface to the end of the hole, as measured along the
drill trace.
|
Data aggregation methods
|
·
In reporting
Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or
minimum grade truncations (e.g. cutting of high grades) and cut-off
grades are usually Material and should be stated.
·
Where aggregate
intercepts incorporate short lengths of high grade results and
longer lengths of low grade results, the procedure used for such
aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such
aggregations should be shown in detail.
·
The assumptions
used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly
stated.
|
Drillholes have been
composited to 1m intervals using Leapfrog Geo 2023.2.0 with
residual lengths distributed evenly across all composites within
the domain. There are no residual samples.
The influence of extreme gold
assays has been limited by top-cutting assays across all domains.
Top-cuts have been determined using a combination of log
probability, log histogram, and mean variance plots. Top-cuts have
been reviewed and applied to the composites on a domain-by-domain
basis.
The assay intervals are reported
as down hole length as the true width variable is not
known.
Gold assays are rounded to two
decimal places.
No metal equivalent reporting is
used or applied.
|
Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept
lengths
|
·
These
relationships are particularly important in the reporting of
Exploration Results.
·
If the geometry
of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is
known, its nature should be reported.
·
If it is not
known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be
a clear statement to this effect (e.g. 'down hole length, true
width not known').
|
The intersection width is measured down the hole trace and may not
be the true width.
All drill results are downhole
intervals only due to the variable orientation of the
mineralisation.
|
Diagrams
|
·
Appropriate
maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts
should be included for any significant discovery being reported
These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill
hole collar locations and appropriate sectional views.
|
A plan view is contained within this document. New cross-sectional
interpretations are included.
|
Balanced reporting
|
·
Where
comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not
practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades
and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of
Exploration Results.
|
Diamond and RC drill holes forming the basis of the Mineral
Resource estimate have been reported previously.. Additional
drilling has informed the 2023 estimate.
|
Other substantive exploration data
|
·
Other
exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported
including (but not limited to): geological observations;
geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk
samples - size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results;
bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics;
potential deleterious or contaminating substances.
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No other exploration data is considered meaningful and material to
this document.
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Further work
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·
The nature and
scale of planned further work (e.g. tests for lateral extensions or
depth extensions or large-scale step-out
drilling).
·
Diagrams
clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including
the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas,
provided this information is not commercially
sensitive.
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Future exploration may involve the drilling of more drillholes,
both diamond core and reverse circulation, to further extend the
mineralised zones and to collect additional detailed data on known
mineralized zones. Geophysical exploration is also planned as part
of the future exploration of the permit.
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Section 3 Estimation and Reporting of Mineral Resources
CRITERIA
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JORC CODE
EXPLANATION
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COMMENTARY
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Database
integrity
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·
Measures taken to ensure that data has not been corrupted by, for example, transcription or keying errors, between its initial
collection and its use for Mineral Resource estimation purposes.
·
Data
validation procedures used.
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Data
has been compiled into a relational SQL database; the setup of this
database precludes the loading of data which do not meet the
required validation protocols. The data is managed using DataShed©
drill hole management software using SQL database techniques.
Validation checks are conducted using SQL and DataShed© relational
database standards. Data has also been checked against original
hard copies for 100% of the data, and where possible, loaded from
original data sources.
Resolute completed the following
basic validation checks on the data
supplied prior to resource estimation:
· Drill
holes with overlapping sample intervals.
· Sample
intervals with no assay data or duplicate records.
· Assay
grade ranges.
· Collar
coordinate ranges.
· Valid
hole orientation data.
There are no significant issues
identified with the data.
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Site visits
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·
Comment on any
site visits undertaken by the Competent Person and the outcome of
those visits.
·
If no site
visits have been undertaken indicate why this
is the case.
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Mr
Bruce Mowat, a fulltime employee of Resolute Mining Limited and a
Member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy is
the Competent Person who has visited this site on multiple
occasions.
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Geological interpretation
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·
Confidence in
(or conversely, the uncertainty of) the geological interpretation
of the mineral deposit.
·
Nature of the
data used and of any assumptions made.
·
The effect, if
any, of alternative interpretations on Mineral Resource
estimation.
·
The use of
geology in guiding and controlling Mineral Resource
estimation.
·
The factors
affecting continuity both of grade and geology.
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The digital database used for the interpretation included logged
intervals for the key granodiorite unit. There is a moderate level
of confidence in the interpretation of the mineralised shear
zoneprimarily due to the relatively wide-spaced drilling.
Additionally Resolute's drilling program was entirely RC, though
historic core has been reviewed and logged.
The mineralised volume has been
constructed using nested Leapfrog Indicator wireframes at lower
cut-offs of 0.2 g/t Au and 0.75 g/t Au. The
overall shape of the mineralised unit has been guided by a
sectional interpretation of the trend of mineralisation within the
mineralised shear.
The factors affecting continuity
both of grade and geology are most likely to be associated with
structural controls and local complexity, the knowledge of which is
limited with the current spacing of information. The broad approach
to the mineralisation modelling is an attempt to model an unbiased
interpretation.
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Dimensions
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·
The extent and
variability of the Mineral Resource expressed as length (along
strike or otherwise), plan width, and depth below surface to the
upper and lower limits of the Mineral Resource.
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Gold mineralisation varies from approximately 10 to 50m in
thickness along the approximately 750m strike length of defined
mineralisation. Mineralisation dips at approximately 70⁰ to the SSE
and is defined to approximately 150m vertical depth. The deposit
remains open at depth and to the west.
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Estimation and modelling techniques
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·
The nature and
appropriateness of the estimation technique(s) applied and key
assumptions, including treatment of extreme grade values,
domaining, interpolation parameters and maximum distance of
extrapolation from data points. If a computer assisted estimation
method was chosen include a description of computer software and
parameters used.
·
The
availability of check estimates, previous estimates and/or mine
production records and whether the Mineral Resource estimate takes
appropriate account of such data.
·
The assumptions
made regarding recovery of by- products.
·
Estimation of
deleterious elements or other non-grade variables of economic
significance (e.g. sulphur for acid mine drainage
characterization).
·
In the case of
block model interpolation, the block size in relation to the
average sample spacing and the search employed.
·
In the case of
block model interpolation, the block size in relation to the
average sample spacing and the search employed.
·
Any assumptions
behind modelling of selective mining units.
·
Any assumptions
about correlation between variables.
·
Description of
how the geological interpretation was used to control the resource
estimates.
·
Discussion of
basis for using or not using grade cutting or
capping.
·
The process of
validation, the checking process used, the comparison of model data
to drill hole data, and use of reconciliation data if
available.
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Estimation of gold grade has been completed using Ordinary Kriging
(OK). Mineralisation has been constrained using wireframes
constructed using nested Leapfrog Indicator wireframes constructed
within the host granodiorite unit. These wireframes have been used
to define domain codes for estimation. Drillholes have been flagged
with the domain code and composited using the domain code to
segregate the data.
Domain boundary analysis has been
undertaken with hard boundaries used for all domains.
Drillholes have been composited to
1m intervals using Leapfrog Geo 2023.2.0 with residual lengths
distributed evenly across all composites within the domain. There
are no residual samples.
The influence of extreme gold
assays has been limited by top-cutting assays across all domains.
Top-cuts have been determined using a combination of log
probability, log histogram, and mean variance plots. Top-cuts have
been reviewed and applied to the composites on a domain-by-domain
basis.
Variography has been undertaken on
a domain-by-domain basis in Datamine Supervisor v.8.14.3.3 using
top-cut values.
Drillhole data spacing ranges from
25m x 25m in densely drilled areas to approximately 50m x
50m.
The block model parent block size
is 25m (X) by 25m (Y) by 5m (Z) with up to 16 sub-blocks per parent
block in the X and Y directions, and up to 8 sub-blocks per parent
block in the Z direction. Sub-blocks have been estimated at the
parent block scale. Block size is considered appropriate for the
drillhole spacing throughout the deposit.
Grade estimation has been
completed in three passes:
Ø Pass 1 estimation has been undertaken using a minimum of 4
and maximum of 25 sample composites (determined using Datamine
Supervisor v.8.14 KNA tool) into a search ellipsoid with dimensions
equal to half the variogram range of the domain.
Ø Pass 2 estimation has been undertaken with the same
minimum/maximum samples as Pass 1 into a search ellipsoid twice the
first pass.
Ø Pass 3 estimation has been undertaken with a minimum of 2
samples, and the same maximum number of samples as the first two
passes into a search ellipsoid twice the second pass
Ø A
maximum of three samples per drillhole has been used in the first
two passes, with no limits set on the third pass.
This is the first mineral resource
estimate released for the Tomboronkoto deposit.
The mineral resource estimate has
been validated using visual validation tools, mean grade
comparisons between the block model and declustered composite grade
means, and swath plots comparing the input composite grades and the
estimated block model grades by Northing, Easting, and
RL.
Leapfrog Geo v2023.2.0 and
Datamine Supervisor v8.14.3.3 software have been used for
estimation.
No by-product recoveries were
considered.
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Moisture
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·
Whether the
tonnages are estimated on a dry basis or with natural moisture, and
the method of determination of the moisture content.
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Moisture was not considered in the density assignment.
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Cut-off parameters
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·
The basis of
the adopted cut-off grade(s) or quality
parameters applied.
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A nominal lower cut-off grade of 0.2g/t Au was used to define the
mineralised domains to encompass the complete mineralised
distribution and produce a model that reduces the risk of
conditional bias that could be introduced where the constraining
interpretation and data selection is based on a significantly
higher grade than the natural geological grade
cut-off.
The cut-off grade for reporting
(above 0.5g/t Au and above 1.0 g/t Au) was used in line with the
previous resource reporting at the nearby Mako deposit
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Mining factors or assumptions
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·
Assumptions
made regarding possible mining methods, minimum mining dimensions
and internal (or, if applicable, external) mining dilution.
It is always necessary as part of the process of determining
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider
potential mining methods, but the assumptions made regarding mining
methods and parameters when estimating Mineral Resources may not
always be rigorous. Where this is the case, this should be reported
with an explanation of the basis of the mining assumptions
made.
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The shallow occurrence of the mineralisation indicates that open
pit mining is appropriate, in line with other deposits in the
area.
The estimation methodology used results in an amount of edge
dilution being incorporated into the blocks of the model. No
account of mining loss has been incorporated.
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Metallurgical factors or assumptions
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·
The basis for
assumptions or predictions regarding metallurgical amenability. It
is always necessary as part of the process of determining
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider
potential metallurgical methods, but the assumptions regarding
metallurgical treatment processes and parameters made when
reporting Mineral Resources may not always be rigorous. Where this
is the case, this should be reported with an explanation of the
basis of the metallurgical assumptions made.
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No specific assumptions were made regarding metallurgical factors
for this estimate.
Metallurgy is assumed to be
similar to the nearby Mako deposit.
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Environmental factors or assumptions
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·
Assumptions
made regarding possible waste and process residue disposal options.
It is always necessary as part of the process of determining
reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction to consider
the potential environmental impacts of the mining and processing
operation. While at this stage the determination of potential
environmental impacts, particularly for a green fields project, may
not always be well advanced, the status of early consideration of
these potential environmental impacts should be reported. Where
these aspects have not been considered this should be reported with
an explanation of the environmental assumptions made.
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No assumptions were made regarding environmental
restrictions.
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Bulk density
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·
Whether assumed
or determined. If assumed, the basis for the assumptions. If
determined, the method used, whether wet or dry, the frequency of
the measurements, the nature, size and representativeness of the
samples.
·
The bulk
density for bulk material must have been measured by methods that
adequately account for void spaces (vugs, porosity, etc), moisture
and differences between rock and alteration zones within the
deposit.
·
Discuss
assumptions for bulk density estimates used in the evaluation
process of the different materials.
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Specific gravity values for the Tombo Prospect have been measured
based on the Archimedean Principle using the immersion method for
individual core samples. A total of 215 density measurements were
available for use, with the vast majority of these being in fresh
rock below the saprock and laterite domains. This data has been
used as the basis of the block model bulk density.
No relationship between density
and sulphur content or gold content could be
established.
A default bulk density of
1.76t/m3 was assigned to oxide rocks.
A default bulk density of
2.16t/m3 was assigned to transitional rock.
A default bulk density of
2.72t/m3 was assigned to fresh rock.
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Classification
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·
The basis for
the classification of the Mineral Resources into varying confidence
categories.
·
Whether
appropriate account has been taken of all relevant factors (i.e.
relative confidence in tonnage/grade estimations, reliability of
input data, confidence in continuity of geology
and metal values, quality, quantity and distribution of the
data).
·
Whether the
result appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
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The classification is based on the confidence in the continuity of
geology and mineralisation and quality/confidence in the estimation
and quality of assay data and bulk density data. Sectional
wireframe interpretations encompass material of Measured and
Indicated classification. As all of Resolute's drilling was RC, and
no confirmation of previous diamond drilling has been undertaken,
the entire Mineral Resource has been classified as
Inferred.
The Mineral Resource estimate
appropriately reflects the Competent Person's view of the
deposit.
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Audits or reviews
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·
The results of
any audits or reviews of Mineral
·
Resource
estimates.
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No external reviews have been completed.
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Discussion of relative accuracy/ confidence
|
·
Where
appropriate a statement of the relative accuracy and confidence
level in the Mineral Resource estimate using an approach or
procedure deemed appropriate by the Competent Person. For example,
the application of statistical or geostatistical procedures to
quantify the relative accuracy of the resource within stated
confidence limits, or, if such an approach is not deemed
appropriate, a qualitative discussion of the factors that could
affect the relative accuracy and confidence of the
estimate.
·
The statement
should specify whether it relates to global or local estimates,
and, if local, state the relevant tonnages, which should be
relevant to technical and economic evaluation. Documentation should
include assumptions made and the procedures used.
·
These
statements of relative accuracy and confidence of the estimate
should be compared with production data, where
available.
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Although the estimate for gold is considered to be without bias, it
is for the some of the estimated volume based on relatively wide
spaced data. The estimate is therefore of moderate confidence and
expected to be of moderate relative accuracy at the local scale
when drilling density exceeds 25m x 25m. Infill grade control
drilling will be required to improve the confidence of the local
estimate.
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