Bezant Resources, the copper-gold exploration and development company, said it expects first run-of-mine ore to be processed through the Tsoaxaub Metals Processing Plant during September, generating first concentrate from its Hope & Gorob project in Namibia.
The plant has received its C1 Civils and Structural Completion Certificate, with mechanical completion scheduled for this month covering slurry pumps, flotation cell mechanisms, a new cone crusher and electrical connections.
Mine-site camp construction is roughly 75% complete with 130 employees and contractors on site, and ore stockpiles from the first two blasts have already exceeded projected tonnage.
Bezant has accelerated its review of a Phase II expansion, prompted by current and projected long-term copper, gold and silver prices, which now support including previously sub-economic low-grade mineralisation in its Mineral Inventory.
Management is also assessing a higher mass-pull strategy for the ore sorter, potentially lifting copper recoveries at a lower pre-concentrate grade.
Combined with the current Mineral Inventory and JORC (2012) Mineral Resource, these factors underpin an estimated life of mine of approximately 35 years, though Bezant has not yet published a revised economic model to reflect it.
"This is a critical yet exciting time for all involved and we will keep shareholders and interested parties fully informed as we move towards that important production date", said executive chairman Colin Bird.
The ore sorter is currently clearing customs and is expected on site shortly, ahead of mechanical completion this month.
