Sabodala poured its first gold in March 2009 (E&MJ, June 2009, p. 20) and produced 162,500 oz through December 31, 2009, marginally exceeding targeted production of 160,000 oz for the year. Cash costs averaged $413/oz. The project is owned 90% by Mineral Deposits and 10% by the government of Senegal.

The original Sabodala plant was designed and constructed with future expansion in mind, so some key infrastructure, such as the 30-MW power plant, already have the capacity to handle the planned increase in plant throughput. Estimated total capital cost for the expansion is $80 million, including $60 million for the processing plant and associated infrastructure and $20 million for additional mining equipment. The first phase of the expansion is budgeted at $55 million.

First-phase plant additions will include a second ball mill and associated pumps and cyclones; three new leach tanks and agitators; and an additional tailing thickener. The installation of a new gyratory primary crusher and reclaim system will be carried out as a second phase of the expansion, approximately a year after completion of the first phase.