EXCURSION •
Underground work at Orion Minerals ’ Prieska shaft in the Northern Cape .
“ CGS have recognised that their counterparts worldwide play a critical role as the custodians of historic exploration data , as well as in undertaking large , district-scale geoscientific studies that are often not within the capabilities of individual explorers .
These surveys and related geoscientific studies often result in accelerated exploration programs by mineral exploration companies that can sometimes lead to major discoveries that bring economic benefits to the regions .
“ There have been many examples of this in Australia – most recently in the East Tennant region , where regional initiatives by Geoscience Australia have effectively led to the discovery of an entirely new IOCG district .
“ Under this MoU , we intend to work with our geoscientific colleagues at the CGS , sharing both data and technical skills . The collaboration is on a non-exclusive basis , and we sincerely hope that our fellow exploration and mining companies in the Northern Cape will join us in this exciting endeavour .
“ While we recognise and respect the need for confidentiality for each company ’ s key intellectual property and commercially sensitive exploration results , we think we can all gain much more by sharing and working together for a mutual good , than for each team to be working in ‘ secret silos ’.
“ The sooner we pool the extensive geoscientific skills available in South Africa , and collaborate on gathering and harmonising datasets , the sooner we will make major new discoveries .
Orion seen as a trailblazer According to CGS CEO Mosa Mabuza Orion Minerals has been a trailblazer for the junior mining and exploration sector in South
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Africa , both at their flagship Prieska Copper-Zinc Project and more recently in the Okiep Copper District .
“ We see this partnership as a great opportunity that will demonstrate the importance of collaborating with key stakeholders to uncover the untapped geology that South Africa is blessed with . It will go a long way to secure the 5 % global exploration share consistent with the commitment of the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy of South Africa , Gwede Mantashe ( MP ).
“ This collaborative effort established with Orion , marks a quantum leap to work together by acquiring , sharing data and information as well as ideas to make the next generation of discoveries for South Africa ’ s future .
“ The Northern Cape Province is one of the most geologically prospective regions in the world , and yet has had very little modern exploration over it . We believe that there is a major opportunity by applying the latest exploration techniques and methodologies to make significant new discoveries . It all begins with having access to high-quality data , and that ’ s what this MoU is all about ,” he says . •
Orion Minerals has been a
African Mining
trailblazer for the junior mining and exploration sector in South Africa .
African Mining • January 2022 • 27