Asante kicks off mining at Russel Starter Pit
Asante Gold Corporation has commenced mining works at the Russel Starter Pit at the Bibiani Gold Mine in Ghana. Located 3.8 kilometers from the Bibiani process plant, the Russel deposit holds 119,000 ounces of measured and indicated gold resources at a grade of 1.80 grams per tonne. This marks the third satellite pit to be explored and developed since Asante’s acquisition of the Bibiani properties.
Mining process
Mining began after receiving the necessary permits from Ghana’s Environmental Protection Agency and the Minerals Commission. The pit will supply material over the next 30 months, complementing production from the Bibiani Main Pit.
Asante’s engagement with local communities and stakeholders has ensured smooth progress. The Ghanaian-owned Vuluxx Company Limited has been contracted for site preparation and mining services, demonstrating a strong commitment to local participation.
The Russel Starter Pit will operate for 15 months, followed by Russel Cut 2, with expected gold recovery of 90%. Asante plans to extend the resource, potentially transitioning to underground mining. CEO Dave Anthony emphasized that this progress contributes to Asante’s target of growing production to over 500,000 ounces by 2028. The continued development at Bibiani-Chirano aims to position it as one of Africa’s largest gold-producing districts.
“Once fully ramped-up, Bibiani-Chirano will be the seventh largest gold producing district in Africa and the only Tier One Gold District in Africa held outside of a major gold producer,” said CEO Dave Anthony.
