Caracal Gold PLC (LSE:GCAT) announced the first gold production from its new heap leach plant at its Kilimapesa gold mine in Kenya.
Commissioning of its pilot heap leach plant has been completed and the first gold production has been achieved ahead of schedule, the company said, adding that it marked an important milestone in its wider expansion strategy to increase output to 24,000 ounces per year from Kilimapesa.
“We have a targeted growth strategy in place to increase operational efficiencies and maximise gold recoveries and profitability at Kilimapesa,” said chief executive Robbie McCrae. “To have delivered the first component of this strategy ahead of schedule is a fantastic achievement and testament to our commitment to maximise the value potential of our expanding gold portfolio.”
Results from the pilot plant exceeded expectations, said the London-listed company. It achieved 53.4% recovery within 14 days, much faster than the expected 60 days, and used less cyanide and lime than anticipated.
Based on the pilot plant results, the company approved the construction of additional pads required to treat the 30,000 tonnes of stockpiled low-grade material and then support the current 15,000 tonnes per annum, at grades above 1.5 grammes a tonne, production capacity.