West Wits Mining Ltd (ASX:WWI, OTCQB:WMWWF) has started mobilisation activities at its Qala Shallows project, marking a transition from early-stage works to project execution. Ore transfers have also begun under a processing agreement with Sibanye-Stillwater, with first gold production targeted for the first half of 2026.
The company is advancing site establishment and infrastructure development, with key contractors engaged and equipment arriving onsite.
Subject to final funding, Qala Shallows aims to ramp up to a steady-state production rate of 65,000 tonnes per month, delivering an average 70,000 ounces of gold per annum over 12 years.
Ore transfers to Ezulwini Processing Plant underway
Ore previously stockpiled by West Wits is now being transported to the Ezulwini Processing Plant under the company’s agreement with Sibanye-Stillwater.
Ore delivered and stockpiled at Ezulwini plant.
An external contractor is moving the material, which is being stored at a designated pad made available exclusively for Qala Shallows feed.
Stockpiling is set to continue until the first half of 2026, aligning with the start of processing and first gold pour.
Meanwhile, permanent infrastructure to support steady-state mining is now underway. West Wits has refurbished the existing box cut and decline, enabling immediate underground access and streamlined ramp-up.
On-the-ground mobilisation activity to support the start of production at Qala Shallows.
Key early site activities include installation of fuel and fluid storage, preparation of operational support areas, and on-ground surveying.
Contractor and equipment update
West Wits reports that critical project partners and suppliers are now engaged:
- EPCM: Solrock Mining Services and Bara Consulting lead execution.
- RHAM Equipment: First Load Haul Dump unit delivered in late June.
- HPE HydroPower: Initial training power pack delivered mid-July.
- AECI: Explosives scheduled for delivery in early August for sliping work.
- GST Supplies: Drill rig arrival expected by end of September to support October production start.
Further developments include initiation of surface geotechnical work, mid-July commissioning of diesel generators for initial power needs, and continued design of major infrastructure components.
Production preparation and ramp-up
Production blasting is scheduled to begin following the mobilisation phase (July–September 2025), subject to final funding.
West Wits aims to build a 30,000-tonne stockpile over six months to ensure continuous feed to the Ezulwini plant and smooth production ramp-up.
About West Wits Mining Ltd
West Wits is developing its 5.025 million-ounce gold project in South Africa’s Witwatersrand Basin and exploring gold and copper at Mt Cecilia in Western Australia. The Witwatersrand Basin is globally significant, having produced over 1.5 billion ounces of gold to date.