Kaoko Metals Intersects Broad Visual Copper Zones in Drilling at Chalkos Project in Namibia

Kaoko Metals (ASX: KAO) has intersected broad zones of visible copper mineralisation in the first two diamond drill holes of the first-ever drilling program at the Otniel prospect within its Chalkos copper-silver project in Namibia.

Both holes encountered shallow, disseminated copper mineralisation across multiple lithological units, with one returning 60.25 metres from 36.65m down-hole and the other 51.83m from 39.27m.

The strongest logged interval comprised 32.36m of strong visible copper mineralisation from 59.3m, while the second hole contained a 17.2m strongly mineralised interval from 58.37m.

Kaoko has begun sampling and processing the core, with laboratory assays expected in four to six weeks as drilling continues to test the extent of the Otniel system.

Common Drill Pad Collar

The first two holes were collared from a common drill pad to test the distribution and continuity of copper mineralisation away from known outcropping mineralisation, with site access still being progressively established when drilling began.

Visible copper minerals including malachite, chalcocite, cuprite, native copper, dioptase, chrysocolla, and chalcopyrite occurred through quartzite, conglomerate, and siltstone rather than within a single host unit.

Zones of ductile shear deformation coincided with or sat adjacent to the strongest visible mineralisation in both holes alongside open fractures, joints, and quartz veining.

Kaoko considers that combination an early indication that structural deformation, as well as lithology, may have played an important role in focusing copper mineralisation at Otniel.

Further Drilling to Test Extensions

A third diamond hole is in progress to test continuity along strike from the initial intersections, while two further holes are planned to test extensions of the mineralised zone to the west and south.

Kaoko then plans to move the rig to the high-priority Donkey Hill target, where drilling will test high-grade outcropping mineralisation within the broader Chalkos Project.

The company is also investigating mobilisation of an additional diamond rig to support or expand the current campaign, alongside continuing project-wide field programs aimed at identifying further targets and ongoing engagement with local stakeholders, conservancy representatives, and Namibian government authorities.

“While it is still early in the program and we are waiting for results of the initial assays, we are pleased to have observed broad zones of copper mineralisation in the first two holes at Otniel,” managing director Gerard O’Donovan said.

“This is a highly encouraging start to drilling of the Chalkos project, and we are excited to continue drilling at both the Otniel and Donkey Hill prospects.”