Casablanca – Aya Gold & Silver Inc., a Canadian mining company, has announced the successful commencement of commercial production at its Zgounder silver mine processing plant in Morocco. The announcement marks a significant milestone for the company as it expands operations in North Africa.
The Zgounder mill began processing ore on November 4, 2024. Just a few weeks later, on November 27, the first silver pour was completed. By December 29, the company officially declared commercial production, less than two months after processing began.
Milestone achievements
During the 30-day period ending December 29, the new processing plant treated 45,683 tonnes of ore, achieving an average processing rate of 84 tonnes per hour (tph) with 75% availability. This translates to a daily average throughput of 1,523 tonnes per day (tpd), representing 76% of the plant’s nameplate capacity of 2,000 tpd. Silver recovery rates during this period reached 79%, showcasing the efficiency of the facility.
Between December 19 and December 29, operational performance improved further, with the plant processing an average of 1,834 tpd and peaking at 2,152 tpd on December 27. During this time, mill availability and silver recovery rates climbed to 86% and 79%, respectively, demonstrating consistent operational progress.
Commercial production was defined as achieving at least 60% of the plant’s nameplate capacity over a continuous 30-day period, a goal the Zgounder facility exceeded.
Strategic importance
Benoit La Salle, President and CEO of Aya Gold & Silver, celebrated the accomplishment, stating:
“I am proud to announce the start of commercial production of the new mill at Aya’s expanded Zgounder mine, completed on budget. This transformative milestone reflects the dedication and expertise of our employees and contractors who built, tested, ramped up, and are now processing ore from both Zgounder’s open-pit and underground operations. With over 600 full-time employees, a fully funded expanded operation, and a strong financial foundation, Aya is well-positioned to support its growth while establishing a new standard for innovative ESG financing in the global mining industry.”
The Zgounder plant’s ramp-up has progressed according to schedule since construction began in mid-2022. With commercial production now achieved, the company is focused on reaching full nameplate capacity by the first quarter of 2025.
Future outlook
Aya Gold & Silver has been realigning its business strategy to focus on silver production, underscored by the divestment of its gold projects in Morocco and Mauritania. These assets are now managed by Mx2 Mining, a newly formed company specializing in gold exploration in North Africa.
The launch of commercial production at Zgounder cements Aya’s position as a leading silver producer in the region. The company’s commitment to sustainability, including near-term decarbonization targets and innovative ESG financing, underscores its ambition to set new standards in the global mining industry.
The Zgounder silver mine is poised to contribute significantly to Morocco’s growing mining sector, while also bolstering Aya’s profile as a prominent player in North Africa’s mineral resource development.
