Dikulushi serves up deep grades in Congo

High-grade intersections encountered at the Dikulushi copper mine in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo indicate the mineralized zone may extend to a depth of at least 300 metres.

Owner Anvil Mining (AVM-T) has been drilling the northwest-dipping zone to assess whether the 120-metre-deep open pit can be expanded. Earlier results included a 16.7-metre intersection grading 16% copper at a vertical depth of 165 metres, and 10.3 metres grading 16.6% copper at a depth of 160 metres.

The drilling has tested the Dikulushi body at vertical depths of 200-300 metres below surface. The deepest hole encountered 14.8 metres grading 16.32% copper and 355 grams silver per tonne at 273 metres of vertical depth. Another deep hole cut 7.2 metres grading 17.44% copper and 294 grams silver at 271 metres below surface.

Grades in the deeper drilling ranged from 6% to 20% copper, with silver grades in the range of 100-400 grams per tonne.

More drilling is planned, both downdip and along the eastern strike extension of the orebody, and a feasibility study to evaluate underground potential is slated for September.