Williamson mine accelerates recovery with strategic replanning

SHINYANGA: Williamson Mine, under Petra Diamonds, has marked a significant milestone by restarting production mid-last year, ahead of schedule, signaling a robust recovery from previous setbacks.

With its financial year ending in June, this proactive move has set the stage for a steady ramp-up in operations, reflecting the mine’s commitment to optimising efficiency and reclaiming its position in the market.

According to financial statement released on Monday, although the Recovery of Ore Mined (ROM) grades saw an 11 per cent decline compared to financial year 2023, they exceeded expectations by 9.0 per cent.

This unexpected boost is largely attributed to strategic replanning efforts following the stoppage caused by the tailings storage facility (TSF) failure.

“This enabled access to higher-grade ore which was originally scheduled for FY 2025,” highlighting the benefits of their adjusted production strategy, according to the financial statement.

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The grade profile at Williamson, in Mwadui, Shinyanga, is characterised by its variability, which is influenced by mining and stripping rates, as well as the specific areas that can be accessed for production at any given time. This dynamic nature requires careful management to optimize both production efficiency and ore quality.

“The Williamson grade profile is not homogenous and is governed by the rate of mining and stripping and which areas can be opened up for production at any given time,” the financial report said.

As the year progresses, the mine’s management remains focused on maintaining this upward trajectory.

The commitment to innovation and flexibility in operations positions Williamson Mine for sustainable growth in the future. With careful planning and execution, the mine aims to solidify its place in the competitive market while maximising the value of its resources.