Resolute release initial resource for Bantaco gold project
Resolute Mining, listed on the ASX and LSE under the ticker RSG, has released an initial mineral resource estimate for its Bantaco gold project, located near the Mako open-pit mine in eastern Senegal.
The Mako mine is approaching the end of its active mining phase, and stockpile processing is scheduled to commence soon. The Bantaco project, identified as one of two nearby satellite deposits alongside Tomboronkoto, is being considered as a means to extend the life of the Mako operation. Both deposits are situated within a practical trucking distance to the Mako mill, making them strategically important for Resolute’s ongoing operations in the region.
Increase in the resource base
The initial resource estimate for Bantaco is based on shallow drilling conducted at the Bantaco South and West prospects. The results indicate an inferred gold resource of approximately 266,000 ounces. Further exploration is planned for the Bantaco Main zone later this year, which could lead to an increase in the resource base. Resolute highlighted that Bantaco may offer favorable development conditions and could potentially be brought into production ahead of Tomboronkoto, providing valuable flexibility and optionality for the company.
With the inclusion of both Bantaco and Tomboronkoto, Resolute now holds a combined estimated resource exceeding 600,000 ounces of gold. The company believes that continued exploration success at these satellite deposits could support an additional five to ten years of gold production in Senegal. The development of these resources is seen as a key element in sustaining and possibly expanding the company’s presence in the region, supported by existing infrastructure and established community relationships.
Resolute’s Chief Executive Officer, Chris Eger, praised the progress made by the exploration team and emphasized Bantaco’s importance in the long-term strategy for the Mako operation. He noted that the project aligns well with Resolute’s goal of maintaining a stable and productive presence in Senegal. Eger recently assumed the CEO role on a full-time basis following the departure of former CEO Terry Holohan, who resigned after being detained in Mali last year during a tax dispute with the government.
Overall, the Bantaco resource estimate marks a significant development for Resolute Mining, offering the potential to extend the productive life of its flagship Mako mine while leveraging nearby satellite resources to maintain operational efficiency and regional engagement.
