Australian gold developer Wia Gold is advancing plans to transform its Kokoseb Gold Project in Namibia into one of Africa’s next significant gold-producing operations, with projected annual production of approximately 177,000 ounces during the first five years of mining.
The project, located in Namibia’s Erongo Region, is supported by a recently completed scoping study that outlines a robust open-pit mining operation with a projected mine life exceeding 11 years. Over its lifespan, Kokoseb is expected to produce approximately 1.65 million ounces of gold, averaging around 146,000 ounces annually.
Kokoseb currently hosts a mineral resource of 2.93 million ounces of gold and is regarded as one of Namibia’s most promising emerging gold projects. The proposed development includes a 5.25 million tonne-per-year carbon-in-leach processing plant, associated tailings storage facilities, and supporting infrastructure connected to the country’s existing power and transport networks.
According to Wia Gold, the project demonstrates strong economic fundamentals. At a gold price assumption of US$2,600 per ounce, Kokoseb is expected to generate a post-tax net present value of approximately US$646 million and an internal rate of return of 38%, with capital payback estimated at less than two years.
To accelerate development activities, the company recently secured A$92 million in funding. The capital will support project studies, permitting, early works programmes, environmental and social initiatives, and preparation for construction as the project advances toward a definitive feasibility study and eventual production.
Permitting activities are already progressing, with the mining licence application submitted and environmental approvals advancing. Wia Gold continues to conduct exploration drilling aimed at expanding the resource base and identifying additional opportunities within its broader land package.
As global gold prices remain strong and investor interest in African gold projects grows, Kokoseb is positioning itself as a potential cornerstone asset in Namibia’s mining sector, adding to the country’s reputation as one of Africa’s most attractive mining jurisdictions.
