Kabompo South prospective for IOCG copper mineralisation – Study

Altona Rare Earths says a geophysical and geochemical data assessment performed by Earthmaps Consulting for its new Kabompo South copper project in Zambia concluded that it is prospective for Iron Ore Copper Gold (IOCG) copper mineralisation.

IOCG deposits are an important family of copper (and other minerals) deposits sharing common features, including their association with specific types of igneous intrusions, strong structural controls (including extensive breccia) and the abundance of magnetite and/or hematite, it said.
Following this key and positive data assessment, the company will proceed with further exploration work at Kabompo South. 

Altona said the initial phases will include magnetic forward and inversion modelling, as well as an extensive soil geochemical survey that will allow the company to fully understand the geometry of the granite intrusions and associated structures, and to rapidly define initial drilling targets.
"The data assessment carried out by Klaus and his team has clearly outlined a geological context favourable to IOCG mineralisation, which is known to carry viable copper deposits in Zambia,” said Altona chief executive Cedric Simonet.

“The definition of a geological model to guide exploration is a necessary first step for any mining project and this represents a significant and exciting advancement for the Kabompo South project.”

Exploration efforts at Kitumba, located in a similar geological context to Kabompo South, have led to the discovery of a significant IOCG copper deposit.
This deposit has proved and probable ore reserves totalling 31.5 mt at 2.05% Cu. 

It is now owned by Sinomine and the ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of the mine took place in August 2024.

Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor in Chief, Rough&Polished