Tuesday, 5th February 2008 (2454 views)

Ore processing has begun at the Youga gold mine in Burkina Faso, west Africa, the company behind the project has confirmed.

It marks the final phase of testing for the mine's processing plant and as a result the first gold pour is expected in February, Canadian firm Etruscan Resources said.

Further testing will be carried out throughout February to optimise plant equipment, with commercial production to follow in March or April.

Youga will aim to reach production of 60,000 to 70,000 ounces of gold by the end of 2008.

Bob Harris, Etruscan Resources' vice-president of operations said the extra time during the testing programme will ensure a smooth run-up to full production levels.

"A great deal of credit goes to our excellent operating team," he said.

Etruscan Resources has been exploring and mining gold prospects in Africa for the last 12 years. Today, its projects cover over 10,000 sq km in the gold belts of Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Ghana and Ivory Coast.

 

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