Bezant Resources blasts first at Hope copper-gold mine

Bezant Resources said on Monday it has completed the first blast at its Hope copper-gold mine in Zambia, a critical step toward advancing the project toward production.

The Australian-listed miner described the blast as a key milestone in the development of the open-pit operation, which is located in the North-Western Province. The company has previously outlined plans to commence mining activities following the completion of preparatory works, including infrastructure and equipment deployment.

Bezant Resources acquired the Hope project in 2023 and has since focused on de-risking the asset through feasibility studies and regulatory approvals. The mine is expected to produce both copper and gold, leveraging existing resources estimated at 3.2 million tonnes grading 0.6% copper and 0.5 grams per tonne gold.

The company has not provided a definitive timeline for the start of commercial production but has indicated that development activities are progressing in line with its internal schedule. Bezant Resources operates the project through its wholly owned subsidiary, and the blast marks the first physical execution of the mine’s development plan.

The Hope mine is situated in a region with established mining infrastructure, which the company has cited as a strategic advantage for reducing operational costs and accelerating project timelines.