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June 2016
MODERN MINING
41
WEST AFRICA
feature
when Perseus moved to acquire Amara.
Located in central Côte d’Ivoire, it has
the potential for large-scale, long-life,
low cost production. An optimised PFS
completed by Amara earlier this year
outlined an open-pit mine with an aver-
age annual production of 248 000 ounces
in years 1-5 and average annual produc-
tion of 203 000 ounces over a 15-year
life of mine (LOM) from a single open
pit containing 3,2 Moz. The average
head grade processed would be 1,62 g/t
based upon the mineral reserve estimate
announced in January this year. The
PFS estimated the upfront capital cost
at US$334 million, including a US$44
million contingency and US$60 mil-
lion for an owner-operated mining fleet.
The PFS put the payback period at 2,1
years with mining throughout this period
focused on the higher grade, continuous CMA
zone where 72 % of Yaouré’s proven mineral
reserves are located.
Perseus is now starting work on a bankable
feasibility study for Yaouré, commencing with
a 42 000 m drilling programme designed to
confirm mineral resource estimates as a basis
for mine optimisation. It expects to complete
the DFS, financing and execution plan within
18-24 months with mine commissioning
following roughly within 18 months of a devel-
opment decision.
An early works programme
has been completed at
Sissingué (photo: Perseus).