Fresh calculation based on extensive infill drilling shows development will be underpinned by 3.11Moz Measured and Indicated and 1.40Moz Inferred Resource
extensional drilling on all four (Nkran, Adubiaso, Abore and Asuadai) Obotan deposits.
The assay results from this drilling program have been incorporated in the final resource estimate undertaken as part of the Feasibility Study that is currently in progress. The estimate comprises:
Measured Resources: 15.57Mt at 2.47g/t for 1.23 million ounces
Indicated Resources: 29.21Mt at 2.00g/t for 1.88 million ounces
Inferred Resources: 21.91Mt at 1.99g/t for 1.40 million ounces
The previous October 2011 resource estimate at Obotan comprised:
Measured Resources: 14.67Mt at 2.66g/t for 1.22 million ounces
Indicated Resources: 27.5Mt at 2.32g/t for 2.00 million ounces
Inferred Resources: 17.54Mt at 2.35g/t for 1.29 million ounces
The latest resource estimate provides further confidence regarding the integrity of the total gold inventory and in particular the integrity, high grade and internal continuity of the Nkran deposit which forms the larger part of the total resource base.
The Feasibility Study remains on track for completion in the middle of this year, with a development decision scheduled for the September Quarter. This would put Obotan on course for full production in calendar 2014.
A revised reserve estimate for Obotan will be undertaken within the next stage of the feasibility study.
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