Kaoko Metals (ASX:KAO) has appointed Optimine Exploration & Drilling Namibia to undertake its maiden diamond drilling program at the Chalkos Copper-Silver Project in Namibia.
The company says it expects mobilisation to commence within one to two weeks, with drilling to follow after final site and logistical preparations.
Kaoko says the initial program will comprise approximately 2,000–3,000m of diamond drilling across the Donkey Hill and Otniel prospects.
Drilling will test beneath and along strike from mapped outcropping copper mineralisation while evaluating the depth, orientation, and continuity of the mineralised zones. The program will also investigate structural controls and test targets identified through surface mapping, sampling, and structural interpretation.
Optimine was selected through a competitive tender process. Managing Director Gerard O’Donovan says the contract marks Kaoko’s transition from surface exploration and target definition to drilling.
“The award of our maiden diamond drilling contract marks the beginning of an exciting new phase for the company as we transition into active drilling operations in the field. Following a competitive tender process, Optimine was selected based on its strong technical capability, experienced Namibian team, local operating knowledge, and ability to mobilise efficiently to site,” O’Donovan says.
Kaoko’s immediate work program includes mobilising drilling equipment and personnel, completing site preparations, logging drill core, and progressively submitting samples for laboratory analysis.
The company notes it is also continuing project-scale geochemical sampling at its Karibib Gold-Copper-Tungsten Project. Kaoko says the program is progressing ahead of expectations, with results to be integrated with existing geological, geophysical, and historical datasets.
Optimine is a Namibian-owned exploration drilling company providing services across Namibia and southern Africa.
Kaoko Metals is an ASX-listed exploration company focused on copper, silver, and gold opportunities across Namibia’s Damara and Kaoko belts.
Write to France Pinzon at Mining.com.au
Images: Kaoko Metals
