Can you provide an update on the latest performance of your flagship Syama mine in Mali?

Certainly. The Syama mine in Mali, which consists of two processing plants and two operations (open-pit and underground), has been performing well. We achieved record production from the sulphide (underground) circuit, mining more ore and processing more material than ever before. This led to record levels of roaster throughput and processing. However, our overall gold production was below target due to lower grades processed. On a positive note, the oxide production met our target, with mining taking place at the Cashew open pit and low-grade stockpiles. We also have a new team at Syama, bringing fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to the project.

Resolute acquired the Mako gold mine in Senegal in 2019 and published an updated LOM. Is the mine meeting expectations?

Yes, the acquisition of the Mako gold mine in Senegal has been a great success, consistently meeting all expectations. The mine’s performance aligns exactly with our projections. In the first half of 2021, Mako produced 63,506 ounces of gold at an AISC of US$1,064 per ounce.

Resolute has built a multi-mine, multi-jurisdiction portfolio. What is the focus of your exploration efforts?

In the near term, our exploration focus will be on areas close to our existing infrastructure. Syama remains a key exploration target, as it sits on an extended mineralization trend fully controlled by Resolute. We have seen positive drilling results at Tabakoroni in the underground area, including high-grade interceptions. We expect to announce more positive results from the ongoing drilling program in the sulphide circuit. In the north, we have also obtained encouraging oxide drill results at Syama North Oxide. Our objective is to mine the oxide satellite pits before transitioning to the Tabakoroni underground. Additionally, we conduct early-stage greenfield exploration in Guinea, where we hold a highly prospective tenement.

Resolute recently sold the Bibiani mine in Ghana to Asante Gold. Can you explain the significance of this transaction for Resolute?

The sale of the Bibiani mine in Ghana to Asante Gold is a significant development for Resolute. Bibiani has a long history of mining, and since our acquisition in 2014, we have kept it under a care and maintenance program. We updated the feasibility study during this time, demonstrating the mine’s potential to produce approximately 100,000 ounces per year over a 10-year life of mine. Selling the asset to Asante Gold creates a win-win outcome for Resolute, Asante, as well as the country and the local community.

Could you provide details about Resolute’s production and cost guidance for 2021? Are there any optimization initiatives planned?

Our production guidance for 2021 is expected to be between 315,000 ounces and 340,000 ounces at an AISC of US$1,290-1,350 per ounce. Over the past 12 months, we have identified several measures aimed at improving our production metrics, and these initiatives will soon be reflected in our operations.

Can you discuss Resolute’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) work and the relationship the company has with local communities?

Our focus is on ensuring that the benefits from our assets translate into positive outcomes for the local communities. We invest in education, training, employment opportunities, and contribute to agricultural development. In collaboration with the governments of Senegal and Mali, we have mobilized resources to vaccinate over 1,100 employees against COVID-19. This initiative not only protects our staff but also has a positive impact on their families and the broader communities in which we operate.