West African Resources (ASX: WAF) expects 2025 to be a game-changing year as it plans to boost its gold production. The company will rely on its flagship Sanbrado Gold Operations and the upcoming Kiaka Gold Project to achieve this goal. With Kiaka set to start production in the third quarter and Sanbrado continuing its strong performance, the company aims to produce between 290,000 and 360,000 ounces of gold this year. This expansion reinforces West African Resources’ role as a key player in Burkina Faso’s gold mining industry.
Sanbrado Gold Operations
Sanbrado, located about 90 km southeast of Ouagadougou, has been crucial to West African Resources’ success. Since its first gold pour in March 2020, the mine has consistently exceeded expectations. In 2025, it is expected to produce between 190,000 and 210,000 ounces of gold at an All-In Sustaining Cost (AISC) of less than $1,350 per ounce.
The mine holds resources of 83 million tonnes at 1.83 g/t, equaling 4.9 million ounces of gold. It also has reserves of 19.8 million tonnes at 2.4 g/t for 1.5 million ounces. Sanbrado aims to maintain an average annual production of over 210,000 ounces for the next decade. From 2026 to 2031, the output is projected to increase to over 230,000 ounces per year. This growth will come from the Toega open-pit and M5 South underground developments, ensuring long-term low-cost gold production.
To enhance productivity, West African Resources plans to develop the Toega open-pit and M5 South underground prospect in the second half of 2025. The Toega deposit, located 14 km southwest of the Sanbrado processing plant, already has its mining permit. It is expected to start production later this year, adding eight years of ore feed to the Sanbrado facility.
Kiaka Gold Project
The Kiaka Gold Project is 45 km south of Sanbrado. It is on track to begin production in the third quarter of 2025. The project is 60% complete and remains within budget. Key milestones have been reached, including 65% completion of concrete pouring and the installation of Carbon-in-Leach (CIL) tanks.
Once operational, Kiaka is expected to produce an average of 234,000 ounces of gold per year over its 20-year mine life. It holds reserves of 164 million tonnes at 0.9 g/t, totaling 4.8 million ounces of gold. The first gold pour from Kiaka is expected in the third quarter, contributing between 100,000 and 150,000 ounces to this year’s total production.
Strategic Investments and Exploration
To ensure ongoing, low-cost gold production, West African Resources is investing in its projects. In addition to developing Toega and M5 South, the company will release an updated resource, reserve, and ten-year production plan by late in the second quarter of 2025. This will include the maiden ore reserve statement for the M5 South underground expansion at Sanbrado, as well as throughput grades for both Sanbrado and Kiaka.
The company is also intensifying its exploration efforts. It has allocated $20 million for exploration in 2025, with 115,000 meters of drilling planned across its operations. This will target depth extensions and near-surface anomalies to boost gold resources and extend the life of existing mines.
Positioning for Growth
West African Resources is on track to increase its annual gold production to over 420,000 ounces by 2025. This growth will come from the successful integration of the Kiaka and Toega projects and the expansion of Sanbrado operations.
Burkina Faso is one of Africa’s top gold producers, and this expansion aligns with the growing global demand for gold. West African Resources is set to play a vital role in the region’s economic growth while committing to sustainable and responsible mining practices.
As the company embarks on this growth journey, it remains focused on delivering value to stakeholders and supporting Burkina Faso’s socio-economic development.