HARARE: Gold producer Metallon Corporation has cut its annual output by 30% due to power outages and challenges at its units. The group has an annual target of 150 000 ounces. In an update for the third quarter of 2015, Metallon said production for the quarter was 23 000 ounces down from 25 882 ounces in the comparable period last year.
It said this was due to equipment breakdowns at Shamva, Mazowe and Arcturus mines. It said increased power interruptions were impacting both underground production and plant processes. Metallon said it was looking at possible solutions in order to supplement grid power supply.
“Due to the reasons outlined above and power supply interruptions continuing to affect production across all operations, Group production guidance of 150 000 ounces for 2015 is therefore reduced by approximately 30%,” Metallon said.
Metallon chief executive officer, Ken Mekani said despite a challenging quarter and unexpected power interruptions, Metallon had achieved substantial gold production and made good progress on their new projects.
“The last 12 months have been pivotal as we have made significant upgrades and investments into the business with an equipment replacement programme and improved operational efficiencies,” he said. He said in the fourth quarter, Metallon would focus on the commissioning of the Mazowe Sands Retreatment Plant and the Mazowe and Shamva Tailings facilities.
