Tongo Diamond project update

FEED programme

The FEED programme for the Tongo project commenced in 1Q18 and is being co-ordinated by independent consulting groups, Paradigm Project Management and SRK Consulting. The FEED will more precisely define the technical requirements of the Tongo project and deliver an optimised underground mine design and treatment plant layout. This work will also refine the final capital expenditure estimate and operating cost budgets for the Tongo project. The FEED programme is on track for scheduled completion in 4Q18.

Mine development drilling campaign

A 9000 m mine development drilling campaign to complement the FEED commenced in May 2018. This campaign is designed to more precisely delineate the geological nature and morphology of the Kundu, Lando and Tongo kimberlites (and associated country rock) within the first two levels of planned underground mining of each kimberlite.

Some 95 drill holes have been completed to date for 8206 m. Kimberlite has been intersected in 87 holes. Drill spacing is predominantly at 50m strike intervals and to a vertical depth of approximately 80 m below surface, being the depth of the envisaged first two mining levels at the Tongo project. The campaign is expected to be completed in July 2018.

A new and more detailed geological model of these three main kimberlites will be generated post completion of the drilling. Select drill holes are also being subjected to hydrological and geotechnical test work as part of the underground mine design workstream within the FEED programme.

Mineral resource estimate update

Independent geological consulting group, MPH Consulting (MPH), has been appointed to provide an updated mineral resource estimate for the Tongo project. This updated estimate is expected to include current and new grade and diamond value data, as well as incorporate results from the present mine development drill programme. The scope of work also includes the provision of updated or maiden Exploration Target Ranges on deeper levels at Kundu, Lando and Tongo, as well as other kimberlites generally within the Tongo project.

Newfield’s Executive Director, Mike Lynn, commented: “Newfield has made strong progress at its flagship Tongo Diamond project following its merger with AIM-listed Stellar Diamonds plc in April. The FEED programme is full steam ahead and is on track for completion in the fourth quarter of this year. A mine development drilling campaign running alongside the FEED programme is expected to be concluded next month. This drilling campaign will also result in an updated mineral resource estimate for the project later in the year. Newfield continues to actively engage with government and community stakeholders with respect to its development plans. We remain firmly focused on the rapid progression of the Tongo Diamond project towards being the next diamond mining operation in Sierra Leone.”

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/exploration-development/03072018/tongo-diamond-project-update/