Namibia Critical Metals (TSX-V:NMI, OTCQB:NMREF) has launched a significant drill program at its Lofdal heavy rare earths project in Namibia, targeting resource expansion across multiple deposit areas.
The campaign targets a maiden resource estimate for a 1.5-kilometre xenotime-mineralized system at Area 5, situated between the planned Area 4 and Area 2B pits, while also aiming to increase measured and indicated resources at both existing deposit areas.
The program plans 83 reverse circulation drillholes using two rigs over five months for a total of approximately 13,000 meters of drilling.
A key element of the program is a deep core drill hole designed to test the extension of the Area 4 deposit to approximately 800 metres vertical depth, with an eye toward a potential future underground mining option.
"Testing the extension of the Area 4 deposit to a depth of about 800 meters has the biggest potential impact for further mine life or increased throughput," said Darrin Campbell, president of Namibia Critical Metals. "Our experts in underground mining design are on standby to potentially guide the project to a significant expansion of the mine."
Area 5 drilling will account for 5,670 meters of systematic coverage along the mineralized system.
The company also hosted senior executives from partners JOGMEC and Toyota-Tsusho at the Lofdal site during stakeholder meetings with Namibian government representatives and local communities.