Bezant Resources PLC has completed the first blast at the Hope open pit within its 90%-owned Hope & Gorob copper-gold project in Namibia, marking a further step toward mining and future concentrate production at the project.
The initial blast involved approximately 20,000 tonnes of material and is expected to liberate around 2,000 tonnes of commercially viable mineralisation. Preliminary evaluation of the exposed mineralisation indicates that its location and grade are broadly consistent with the project's existing geological block model.
Following the blast, grade-control work will compare assay results from blasthole samples with the exposed mineralisation to refine ore selection. Mining and transportation of run-of-mine (ROM) ore to the Tsaoxaub Metals flotation plant are expected to begin shortly, where material will be stockpiled ahead of future plant commissioning.
Preparations for further mining are also progressing. Blastholes have already been drilled for a second blast, while the mining contractor has commenced ground clearance and separation of ore and waste for haulage. Recruitment of plant operators is ongoing following the appointment of the plant site manager, while the mine geology team is working with external consultants to validate the existing block model.
The first blast represents an important operational milestone as Hope & Gorob moves closer to the processing stage. The next key developments will be the delivery of ROM ore to the plant, commissioning of the flotation facility and eventual production of saleable concentrate, providing clearer indications of the project's transition from development into copper-gold production.
