Noronex Limited has acquired two strategic prospecting licenses in Botswana, adjacent to its Damara copper project in Namibia. The area encompasses approximately 1500 square kilometers within the Kalahari Copper Belt, showing continuity of promising geological features. Notably, the company plans further drilling and geochemical sampling to explore these new licenses, building on positive previous results from its operations in Namibia.
Noronex Limited has obtained two valuable prospecting licenses in Botswana, situated along the Namibia-Botswana border, adjacent to its existing Damara copper project. The aeromagnetic data indicates a continuation of promising magnetic signatures extending eastward into these new licenses, aligned with the northern boundary of the Kalahari Basin.
The newly acquired licenses encompass nearly 1500 square kilometers of previously unexamined terrain within the Kalahari Copper Belt, notably including the prospective D’Kar Formation along the basin margin. These licenses, held by Noronex’s subsidiary Senyetse Resources, cover areas of 721.87 square kilometers and 745.40 square kilometers respectively and will be transferred to a new fully-owned subsidiary, Tilodi Metals Botswana P/L.
Noronex expressed satisfaction in securing these exploration licenses, which were applied for earlier this year, in the context of a growing endorsement for the Kalahari Copper Belt, including a recent agreement involving BHP Group and Cobre Ltd. The company aspires to find the next significant copper discovery in the basin. The aeromagnetic signatures from current drilling at Otjiuapehuri project extend into the new licenses and continue to offer a favorable outlook for copper exploration.
Seven holes have been drilled at the Otjiuapehuri site, with results pending from laboratory tests. The magnetic and gravity data reveal a notable continuity of structural trends, yet exhibit increased complexity toward northeastern regions. Notably, the geology of the Botswana ground remains poorly understood, as the area has not previously been explored through drilling.
Noronex aims to implement a geochemical sampling program after obtaining necessary environmental approvals. The anticipated sampling area lies adjacent to Cobre Limited’s Thul prospect, which has recently entered a significant earn-in agreement with BHP Group. Under this agreement, BHP could acquire a 75 percent interest in Cobre’s Kitlanya project by investing up to US$25 million.
International interest in the Kalahari Copper Belt is increasing due to its rich potential; however, comprehensive geological studies are essential for unlocking its secrets. Noronex is diligently progressing this understanding, with forthcoming geochemical results anticipated from its newly acquired territory. Moreover, the company looks to expand its drilling operations at its Namibian Fiesta target area, building upon promising results previously reported.
The most noteworthy discovery from the Fiesta area included 16 meters of ore graded at 1 percent copper and 33 grams per tonne of silver. Noronex continues to foster optimism regarding upcoming drilling phases in both Namibia and Botswana.
In summary, Noronex Limited’s acquisition of two prospecting licenses in Botswana marks a significant step forward in its copper exploration efforts. The continuity of geological features and prospective formations offers promising potential for future discoveries in the Kalahari Copper Belt. As the company also seeks to advance its operations in Namibia, it remains poised to unravel more geological insights and capitalize on international interest in copper exploration.
Original Source: thewest.com.au
