Scoping study for Canyon Resources' Minim Martap Bauxite Project in Cameroon forecasts two stage mining potentials

Canyon Resources, which is planning to develop its Minim Martap Bauxite Project in Cameroon in two stages, has recently released a scoping study supporting a simple and effective stage one mining operation.

The scoping study reveals that stage one would be a self-supporting bauxite mining operation with a simple, low cost and fast track shipping to market using the existing rail and port facilities. Stage two would aim higher export volumes and lower operating cost with the implementation of the Kribi rail extension allowing access to a deep-water port.

According to the scoping study estimate, stage one would be a low capital start-up option with a capaex of estimated US$78 million and the first stage will produce an estimated three million tonnes of bauxite per year. The study forecasts a profitable mining operation for stage one with an estimated production of three million tonnes.

The scoping study highlights the potential for a direct shipping ore (DSO) mining and logistics operation.  The deposit is highly amenable to surface mining extraction methods where the DSO can be mined at low average strip ratios.

The scoping study aims to determine the minimum-viable initial development solution to deliver a standalone bauxite mine with brilliant economic potential.

The stage two forecasts potential increase in volume, mine life and cost with the installation of a rail extension to the deepwater port of Kribi. The Cameroon Ministry of Transport has completed the Kribi-Link definitive feasibility study. The funding and execution plan is underway.

The project has the potential to be operational in 24 to 36 months.