Shuka Minerals has received encouraging results from surface sampling at its Kabwe Zinc Mine in Zambia, with handheld XRF analysis returning zinc grades of up to 36.13% and lead grades reaching 9.63%.
The sampling programme, conducted during a recent site visit with geological consultants GeoQuest and an international drilling contractor, collected nine samples from outcrop and artisanal workings.
Results demonstrated consistently high grades across multiple samples, with several exceeding 20% zinc and 5% lead.
Tungsten mineralisation was also detected in two samples, with values of 0.917% and 1.015%.
The grades compare favourably with historical mining averages and confirm the presence of substantial high-grade material at surface, according to the company.
Samples will now be sent to the ALS laboratory in Ndola for independent verification of the XRF results and testing for a wider range of elements including silver, vanadium, germanium and gallium.
Company chief executive Richard Lloyd described the results as encouraging, noting that while the company is planning for deeper drilling, the team has realised significant material remains at surface.
This material will be used to analyse the metallurgical characteristics of the ore body, assisting in plant design considerations and advancing resource statements.
The exploration programme is now underway following the company's recent capital raise and completion of the Kabwe acquisition earlier in the quarter.
Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor-In-Chief, Rough & Polished
