West African Resources Limited (ASX: WAF) has released new diamond drilling results from the Sanbrado Gold Operations in Burkina Faso, highlighting significant mineralisation at the M5 deposit. The latest data includes a high-grade intercept of 27 metres at 6.7 g/t gold, encountered approximately 200 metres below the existing underground ore reserves at M5 South. These findings are expected to play a key role in the company’s efforts to expand the project’s reserve base.

The drilling campaign at M5 South is currently focused on two objectives: converting inferred resources between the 500 and 570-metre levels and providing detailed grade control data for the lower sections of the underground mine. Beyond the primary intercept, other notable results from the ongoing program include 29 metres at 16.4 g/t gold and 39 metres at 5 g/t gold. Management indicated that two drill rigs are active at the site, with a third rig planned for deployment once additional underground access positions become available later this year.

In addition to the underground work, drilling activities have targeted the M5 North zone. Infill drilling at the M5 North open-pit reserve is now complete, with recent results yielding consistent mineralisation, such as 67 metres at 0.9 g/t gold and 54 metres at 1 g/t gold. These intersections support the company’s plans for an open-pit cut-back while primary mining operations remain ongoing elsewhere at the site.

Executive Chairman Richard Hyde noted the intensity of recent exploration efforts and the implications for the company's future mine planning.

"WAF's exploration teams have been very active during 2026, drilling at M5 South underground and beneath the M5 North open-pit."

"WAF will incorporate an extension to the M5 South underground and M5 North open pit in the upcoming Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve update and 10-year production outlook which is planned for release in Q1 2027."

— Richard Hyde, Executive Chairman

The company plans to continue its exploration program throughout the remainder of 2026, aiming to further define the mineralisation down to 700 metres below the surface. This work is intended to refine the geological model ahead of the comprehensive data release scheduled for the first quarter of 2027. The upcoming update will include both the updated Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve statement and a revised 10-year production outlook, providing a clearer long-term view of the Sanbrado operation’s potential as the underground development advances.

Read the full announcement: WAF hits 27m at 6.7 g/t gold 200m below M5 South UG reserve