Commercial production at the CMA underground operation is due to commence in March 2027.
The CMA underground mine will be located beneath the existing CMA open pit. Infrastructure construction has already been completed, and decline development will now start after the commissioning of underground mining equipment supplied by Perseus’ specialist contractor, Byrnecut. The company expects the first ore production in January 2026, with commercial production to follow in March 2027.
Perseus CEO and managing director Jeff Quartermaine said: “Receiving the Presidential Decree authorising the development of Côte d’Ivoire’s first underground mine is a major milestone for Perseus, allowing us to immediately proceed with the cutting of portals and ultimately gaining access to further important ore sources for processing through the Yaouré processing facility. While receipt of the formal authorisation comes later than originally planned, the delay has allowed us time to complete all infrastructure works required to support the operation as well as ensure that Byrnecut’s underground equipment is available and commissioned ready for immediate commencement of mining operations.”
The presidential decree follows earlier approvals, including an environmental and social impact assessment and a Ministerial Arrêté granted by the Minister of Environment, Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition in May this year. These clearances laid the groundwork for the final investment decision, which Perseus confirmed earlier this year.
The CMA underground mine represents an estimated $170m (A$257.92m) investment. According to Quartermaine: “The $170m [A$257.92m] to be invested by Perseus in the CMA underground mine marks a new phase in our partnership with the Government of Côte d’Ivoire in expanding its thriving mining industry.”
The project signifies an important step for Perseus, as it not only supports long-term resource development but also strengthens its role in Côte d’Ivoire’s mining sector. With infrastructure works finalized, equipment in place, and timelines set for ore and commercial production, the company is preparing for steady progress in bringing the underground operation online.
The Yaouré Gold Mine’s expansion underlines Perseus’ strategy to secure additional ore sources for processing while contributing to the region’s mining development. By targeting January 2026 for initial production and March 2027 for full operations, the company has laid out a clear path toward achieving stable output and extending the mine’s operational future.
