Kaoko Metals Initiates First Diamond Drilling Campaign at Chalkos Copper-Silver Project in Namibia

Optimine Selected for Maiden Drilling Contract After Rigorous Tender Process

Following a thorough competitive tender, Kaoko Metals appointed Optimine Exploration & Drilling Namibia to conduct its maiden diamond drilling program at the Chalkos Copper-Silver Project. Selection criteria included technical proficiency, operational experience, safety measures, equipment readiness, local expertise, and mobilisation speed. Optimine was chosen due to its strong performance across these factors.

Optimine is a Namibian-owned drilling company with extensive experience in diamond-core, reverse-circulation, underground, and geotechnical drilling services throughout Namibia and Southern Africa. Its management and operational teams possess deep expertise in drilling techniques, mining engineering, project management, equipment maintenance, logistics, and health and safety. The company’s local presence and knowledge are expected to facilitate safe and efficient execution of Kaoko’s exploration program.

Initial Drilling Program Focuses on Donkey Hill and Otniel Prospects at Chalkos

Kaoko Metals’ maiden diamond drilling campaign is planned to cover approximately 2,000–3,000 metres across the Donkey Hill and Otniel prospects within the Chalkos Copper-Silver Project. This program marks a pivotal step as Kaoko transitions from surface exploration to systematic drill testing of these priority copper targets. The drilling will investigate subsurface extensions and strike continuity of copper mineralisation previously identified at surface.

The program’s key goals include assessing the depth, orientation, and continuity of mineralised zones; evaluating priority targets derived from surface mapping, sampling, and structural analysis; refining understanding of structural controls on mineralisation; and providing geological data to optimise future drilling. This approach aims to enhance knowledge of mineralisation distribution and controls across Chalkos, guiding subsequent exploration phases.

Mobilisation Set for 1–2 Weeks as Site Preparation Advances

Optimine is expected to mobilise drilling equipment and personnel to Chalkos within 1–2 weeks, with drilling operations commencing shortly after final site and logistical preparations. Kaoko’s geological team will be present at the start of drilling to provide direct oversight and real-time geological logging of core samples. This timeline reflects Optimine’s operational readiness and efficiency in the Namibian exploration sector.

Final preparations and logistical arrangements are underway ahead of equipment arrival. Once drilling begins, geological and structural logging will be conducted continuously, with samples progressively submitted for laboratory analysis. This systematic process is designed to deliver timely geological insights to inform drilling decisions and future program planning.

Understanding Structural Controls and Mineralisation Central to Drilling Objectives

A primary objective of the maiden drilling program is to enhance understanding of structural controls believed to influence mineralisation distribution at Chalkos. While surface mapping and sampling have identified significant copper mineralisation at Donkey Hill and Otniel, the subsurface structural framework remains untested. The drilling is designed to address this gap.

By examining the orientation, continuity, and depth of mineralised zones relative to structural features, Kaoko aims to refine its geological model of the Chalkos system. Improved structural insights will aid in identifying and prioritising additional targets across the broader Kaoko Copper Belt tenure and support the design of future drilling campaigns targeting similar structural settings.

Kaoko Metals’ Exploration Strategy Across Namibian Projects

Kaoko Metals, listed on the ASX, focuses on unlocking large-scale copper, silver, and gold opportunities within Namibia’s Damara and Kaoko belts. Its flagship Chalkos Copper-Silver Project lies in the under-explored Kaoko Copper Belt, where known mineralisation covers only a fraction of an extensive landholding. The company employs systematic, modern exploration methods to define and expand mineralisation and pursue new discoveries.

Simultaneously, the Karibib Gold-Copper-Tungsten Project is located in the prolific Damara Belt near established operations such as the Navachab Gold Mine and Twin Hills Gold Project. Kaoko aims to advance mineralised zones here through staged exploration and resource definition to build a diversified multi-commodity resource base. The company’s strategy emphasizes disciplined exploration, geological expertise, and data-driven targeting to deliver scalable discoveries and long-term shareholder value.

Karibib Geochemical Program Progressing Ahead of Schedule

While preparing for drilling at Chalkos, Kaoko is also advancing a large-scale geochemical program at the Karibib Project ahead of expectations. This parallel effort highlights the company’s capability to manage multiple exploration initiatives across its Namibian portfolio. The geochemical sampling is intended to generate regional data supporting target definition and prioritisation at Karibib.

Current activities include ongoing geochemical sampling and integrating these results with existing geological, geophysical, and historical data. This comprehensive approach aims to establish a robust geological framework for identifying and ranking exploration targets across Karibib. With drilling imminent at Chalkos and regional exploration progressing at Karibib, Kaoko is entering a phase of heightened exploration activity across both projects.

Comprehensive Work Program Includes Drilling and Core Analysis

Kaoko’s immediate exploration program involves multiple concurrent tasks designed to maximise information from the maiden drilling campaign. These include mobilisation of Optimine’s drilling team and equipment to Chalkos, completion of drill-site preparations, and commencement of diamond drilling at Donkey Hill and Otniel. Geological and structural logging of drill core will be conducted in real time by Kaoko’s onsite geological team.

Samples will be progressively submitted for laboratory assays to provide timely results that guide ongoing drilling decisions. Concurrently, project-scale geochemical sampling at Karibib will continue, with data integration enhancing understanding of mineralisation controls and prospectivity across both projects. This coordinated approach underscores Kaoko’s commitment to efficient, data-driven exploration.

Transition to Systematic Drilling Marks Key Milestone for Kaoko Metals

The awarding of Kaoko’s first diamond drilling contract represents a crucial milestone as the company moves from surface exploration to systematic drill testing of priority targets. This transition enables testing of subsurface mineralisation continuity and geometry, building confidence in the scale of mineralised systems. The initial 2,000–3,000 metre program lays the groundwork for potential larger-scale drilling in future phases.

Managing Director Gerard O'Donovan described this milestone as the start of an exciting new phase for Kaoko, transitioning into active field drilling. The choice of Optimine, based on technical expertise, experienced local team, operational knowledge, and efficient mobilisation, reflects Kaoko’s focus on execution quality and local proficiency. The company’s onsite presence during drilling commencement further highlights its dedication to rigorous geological supervision and real-time decision-making during this critical exploration stage.