Production begins at Zgounder Mine in Morocco
Aya Gold & Silver Inc. has begun commercial production at its 100%-owned Zgounder Mine in Morocco. The new processing plant began operations in November 2024, achieving its first silver pour on November 27, and transitioned to commercial production.
Over 30 days, the mill processed 45,683 tonnes of ore, averaging 84 tonnes per hour at 75% availability and achieving 79% silver recovery. Between December 19–29, the mill’s throughput averaged 1,834 tonnes per day, peaking at 2,152 tonnes on December 27, with availability improving to 86%.
Objectives
Commercial production required 30 days of operating at a minimum of 60% of the mill’s 2,000 tpd capacity, a threshold surpassed with operations averaging 76% of capacity. President and CEO Benoit La Salle emphasized the achievement as a “transformative milestone” completed on budget. He commended the dedication of Aya’s workforce and contractors while reiterating the company’s commitment to sustainability, including near-term decarbonization goals.
“We remain committed to our sustainability objectives including our near-term decarbonization targets, as we continue with ramp up activities. I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who made this achievement possible, especially our shareholders, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in realizing this vision.”
Construction of the processing plant began in mid-2022, with a goal of declaring commercial production in 2024. Aya is on track to achieve the mill’s nameplate capacity by Q1 2025. The Zgounder Mine employs over 600 full-time workers and reflects Aya’s commitment to innovative ESG financing and sustainable growth.
