West Wits Mining Advances Qala Shallows for Steady Gold Output

Highlights

• Ore transportation from Qala Shallows to Ezulwini Processing Plant has commenced

• Early-stage mobilisation transitions into full-scale infrastructure development

• Key contractors and suppliers are engaged for long-term site operations

a200 asx project West Wits Mining Ltd (ASX:WWI) has initiated its next phase at the Qala Shallows site, with on-the-ground activity ramping up to transition into full-scale gold production. This milestone reflects significant progress as the company shifts from preparatory works to operational execution.

Ore from initial stockpiles is now being delivered to the Ezulwini Processing Plant under a structured arrangement. The transportation marks a pivotal step in aligning resource extraction with scheduled processing operations. Early-stage activity has been focused on site mobilisation and logistical groundwork essential for sustained operations.

Ore Delivery and Processing Strategy

Material from the Qala Shallows project is being moved by an external transport contractor and stored at a designated pad at the Ezulwini facility. This setup was specifically arranged for Qala feed, ensuring streamlined processing and operational alignment. The structured delivery phase will continue in preparation for the plant’s commencement phase, scheduled to align with infrastructure completion.

The staged delivery system is part of a broader plan to build a long-term ore stockpile. This will ensure continuous feed to the plant during early production cycles and support a smooth transition into full output levels. Meanwhile, development of on-site infrastructure remains a critical focus to enable uninterrupted operations once processing begins.

Infrastructure and Site Development Progress

Permanent infrastructure at Qala Shallows is currently under construction, including the refurbishment of the box cut and underground decline. This renovation offers immediate access to underground areas, reducing delays and facilitating rapid scale-up of underground mining activity. Enhanced access is crucial for upcoming drilling and production blasting timelines.

Installation of essential components is ongoing, including fuel storage, fluid distribution units, and operational support zones. Ground surveying and other technical groundwork have also commenced, laying the foundation for seamless equipment integration and long-term workforce mobilisation.

Partner Engagement and Equipment Deployment

Critical project collaborators have been secured to drive execution at Qala Shallows. Engineering and consulting partners have initiated planning, while mining equipment suppliers have begun delivering machinery essential for operational ramp-up. Load and haul equipment, hydro-power modules, and diesel generators are among the first assets deployed.

Additional resources, including explosives and drilling tools, are scheduled for phased arrival. A drill rig is expected to arrive by the end of the third quarter, supporting production activities shortly thereafter. The coordination of supplier timelines is integral to West Wits’ mobilisation strategy and infrastructure synchronisation.

Supporting Developments Across Site

Geotechnical studies and surface assessments are in progress to confirm ground stability and inform construction sequencing. These evaluations are essential for safe ramp-up and have been prioritised alongside utility commissioning. Diesel generators have already been activated to meet initial energy demands during the early stages of site establishment.

These foundational elements contribute to long-term readiness and help de-risk the scale-up process. Infrastructure enhancements also include modifications to underground access routes and staging areas that will be used for ore hauling and materials handling.

Ramp-Up and Production Planning

A key objective during the early phase is to establish a working stockpile of ore that will sustain initial production. The stockpile will serve as a buffer to maintain uninterrupted feed once processing at the Ezulwini facility begins. This forward planning reflects a structured approach to achieving operational continuity.

Production blasting is scheduled to commence following completion of mobilisation works. This phase is expected to align with equipment arrival and the readiness of supporting infrastructure. The strategy includes building operational momentum over successive phases while refining technical workflows on-site.

About West Wits Mining and Project Scope

West Wits Mining Ltd is progressing with its gold-focused strategy in South Africa’s Witwatersrand Basin. The company is developing a project that has been under exploration for several years and is positioned in one of the world’s historically rich gold-producing regions. The project’s location offers geological significance, having delivered substantial gold output over time.

Additionally, the company holds exploration assets in Western Australia, where it is assessing both gold and copper opportunities. These projects form part of West Wits’ diversified exploration and development strategy aimed at advancing long-term resource extraction across multiple jurisdictions.