The Sabodala and Niakafiri deposits will be mined by open pit method over three phases, with the life of mine scheduled to run for 10 years. Major contracts have been awarded for the project’s engineering and construction works, which began in 2007.

The proposed operations at the Grande Côte will involve a large dredge operation in a substantial dredge pond operating within the natural water table. Virtually all water and approximately 98% of the sand are returned to the dredge pond within 30 minutes of dredging, providing for a minimal impact on the environment.

Both projects have potential to identify additional mineralisation beyond the limits of present drilling and add to the latest mineral resource/reserve estimates. Extensive resource drilling is continuing on both projects.