Trail mining at the Luxinge project in Angola

International Gold Exploration (IGE) AB, a Swedish exploration and mining group focused on diamonds, nickel and gold, is likely to start trial mining of the Luxinge tributary and bulk sampling of identified diamond-bearing deposits of the alluvial diamond in August 2008.

IGE is in a process to transport the drilling equipment to commence mining of alluvial diamonds at Luxinge project in Angola. The Angolan Government had awarded the alluvial diamond exploration contract to IGE, some four months back.

The equipment on site includes the Metco pre-treatment plant (70 tonnes per hour) and Volvo machines (bulldozer, excavators, grader, dumpers and wheel loaders). The set up of 70 person camp facility is in progress.

Tomas Fellbom, Chief Executive Officer of IGE, said, we are very pleased about the rapid progress being made at Luxinge considering the logistical challenges of the congested Lobito and Luanda ports and the long delivery time of mining equipment

Luxinge will transform IGE from an exploration and development company into a diamond producer. The Company’s strategy in diamonds is to start with easy accessible alluvial production which will generate cash flow and support exploration and development activities of larger and more profitable kimberlite pipes. We are also planning to bring the Kilimapesa gold mine in Kenya into production later this year as well, he said.

Story link: Trail mining at the Luxinge project in Angola