Modern Mining January 2021

until the required technical parameters have been satisfied, while processing both ore types.” Quartermaine says there is merit in this more conservative approach as processing the fresh ore, which is is expected to be harder than the oxide ore, will provide added assurance that the plant is fit for purpose under all operating conditions. “It is not unusual to commission plants on oxide ore only, especially when access to fresh material is scheduled to occur after oxide ore is available. We applied this approach very successfully at our Sissingue Mine. Given that the availability of fresh ore appears likely to be brought forward, we have the option of taking the more conservative route and will make a decision on this as the March quarter unfolds.” Yaouré, which holds three exploration permits in

a definitive feasibility study (DFS). Construction of the mine started in August 2019, after permitting and negotiating a mining convention with the Ivorian government. Commercial production With construction of the Yaouré processing plant and associated infrastructure largely complete, Perseus will now focus on satisfying continuous performance tests and positioning to declare commercial produc- tion. The company expects to achieve both during the March 2021 quarter, when the first shipment of gold from the mine is expected to occur. “We originally planned to declare commercial production during the first quarter of 2021,” says Quartermaine. “In order to reach this point, we must demonstrate the sustained achievement of key oper-

The total construction cost, including COVID-19 measures pandemic, is projected to be below the budget of US$265- million.

Perseus has successfully completed the first pour of gold at its Yaouré Gold Mine.

ating parameters, including run time and throughput rates, as well as positive cashflow from operations.” Conservative approach He says that, according to the original schedule, Yaouré Mine would have processed low-grade oxide ores for a period of some six months while access to high-grade fresh ore supplies was being gained. “However, as a result of better-than- expected performance by our mining contractor, there is a chance that fresh ore will be available for processing sooner than originally anticipated. As a result, we are considering deferring declaration of commercial production

Top projects

January 2021  MODERN MINING  23