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| Share Name | Share Symbol | Market | Type | Share ISIN | Share Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Randgold Res. | LSE:RRS | London | Ordinary Share | GB00B01C3S32 | ORD $0.05 |
| Price Change | % Change | Share Price | Bid Price | Offer Price | High Price | Low Price | Open Price | Shares Traded | Last Trade | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.00 | 0.00% | 6,546.00 | 6,580.00 | 6,584.00 | 0.00 | 01:00:00 |
| Industry Sector | Turnover | Profit | EPS - Basic | PE Ratio | Market Cap |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | N/A | 0 |
From Apr 2019 to Apr 2024
TIDMRRS
RNS Number : 2844V
Randgold Resources Ld
02 November 2017
RANDGOLD RESOURCES LIMITED
Incorporated in Jersey, Channel Islands
Reg. No. 62686
LSE Trading Symbol: RRS
NASDAQ Trading Symbol: GOLD
RANDGOLD ON TRACK TO MEET 2017 GUIDANCE
London, 2 November 2017 - As forecast, Randgold Resources' results for Q3 were lower than those for Q2 but the company says it remains well positioned to achieve the top end of its production guidance for the year.
Production was lower quarter on quarter due to the Gounkoto super pit pushback and a planned decrease in grade at the flagship Loulo-Gounkoto complex. Another factor was a mill upgrade project in the first part of the quarter which impacted on throughput at Tongon.
Consequently production of 310 618 ounces was 9% down on Q2 while total cash cost per ounce rose by 17% to $667. Profit of $60.2 million was down 41%. Comparing the first nine months of this year to the same period in 2016, production was up 11%, total cash cost per ounce was down 9% and profit was up 22% while the group cash position grew as planned.
Chief executive Mark Bristow said the commissioning and automation of Kibali's underground ore handling systems and their integration with the shaft was currently being completed and was the key for Kibali to meet its 610 000oz guidance for the year. Otherwise, all the group operations were on target to meet or exceed their annual production plans. In addition, the group continued to look at ways to expand its existing asset base and to discover new world-class gold deposits.
"Brownfields exploration continues to generate good results. We can now confidently project annual production in excess of 600 000 ounces for at least 10 years for both Loulo-Gounkoto and Kibali, and we hope to extend Tongon's life, as we have done at Morila," Bristow said.
"One of our stated objectives is to define three new projects over the next four years. In Senegal, our focus is on delivering a Massawa feasibility study with a +3 million ounce reserve that passes our investment filters. Massawa is close to that mark and currently sits comfortably in the upper quartile of global gold development projects."
In Côte d'Ivoire, Randgold has concluded a joint venture with Endeavour Mining which will give it access to the ground immediately north of its Mankono permit, where the promising Gbongogo target is located. Grassroots exploration in the Democratic Republic of Congo is progressing the Moku and Ngayu projects.
"Randgold stands out as one of only a few gold mining companies that consistently outperforms the gold price and delivers real value to its shareholders, host countries and other stakeholders. Our continuing investment in the future is in line with our long term strategy of creating value through exploration and development, and allocating capital against a strict set of criteria," Bristow said.
"With a long term plan that is profitable at a gold price of $1 000 per ounce, a growing dividend stream flowing from past investments and a commitment to ongoing investment, I believe Randgold will continue to be a leader in the gold mining industry in terms of value creation for all stakeholders."
RANDGOLD ENQUIRIES:
Chief Executive Financial Director Investor & Media Mark Bristow Graham Shuttleworth Relations +44 788 071 +44 1534 735 Kathy du Plessis 1386 333 +44 20 7557 7738 +44 779 775 +44 779 771 Email: randgold@dpapr.com 2288 1338
Website: www.randgoldresources.com
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
REPORT FOR THE THIRD QUARTERED 30 SEPTEMBER 2017
Randgold Resources Limited ('Randgold') had 94.1 million shares in issue as at 30 September 2017.
Key Performance Indicators
-- Profits down 41% quarter on quarter and up 22% on corresponding 9 months of prior year
-- Production down 9% quarter on quarter and up 11% on corresponding 9 months of prior year
-- Earnings per share down 42% quarter on quarter and up 19% on corresponding 9 months of prior year
-- Total cash cost per ounce up 17% quarter on quarter and down 9% on corresponding 9 months of prior year
-- Cash up 9% quarter on quarter and up 72% on corresponding prior year third quarter
-- Loulo-Gounkoto on track to beat 2017 guidance
-- Morila performs in line with plan and prepares for Domba ore feed in Q4 2017
-- Tongon 2017 guidance remains intact despite dip in Q3 production
-- Kibali posts steady improvement ahead of anticipated underground ramp-up
-- Mankono footprint increases with new joint venture
-- Massawa feasibility study continues with focus on expanding reserve base
-- Brownfields exploration continues to deliver positive results at Kibali and Loulo
-- Total Injury Frequency Rate reduced by 29% quarter on quarter and 32% on corresponding 9 months of prior year
SUMMARISED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Hot Features
Premium
Quarter Quarter Quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep 30 Sep
$000 2017 2017 2016 2017 2016
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Average gold price
received ($/oz) 1 281 1 254 1 333 1 251 1 261
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
1 219 1 092
Gold sales(1) 387 776 422 137 392 776 516 979
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Total cash costs(1) 201 890 192 441 195 357 602 057 588 137
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Profit from mining
activity(1) 185 886 229 696 197 419 617 459 504 842
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Exploration and corporate
expenditure 11 882 12 823 11 212 35 613 33 205
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Profit for the period 60 248 102 788 77 253 247 960 199 897
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Profit attributable
to equity shareholders 48 709 84 031 65 566 202 558 168 954
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Net cash generated
from operations 118 945 132 346 119 313 384 402 316 562
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Cash and cash equivalents(2) 621 576 572 838 361 103 621 576 361 103
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Gold on hand at period
end(3) 29 891 19 082 27 808 29 891 27 808
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Group production (oz) 310 618 341 316 301 163 974 404 874 569
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Group sales(1) (oz) 302 620 336 516 294 745 974 739 866 648
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Group total cash cost
per ounce(1) ($) 667 572 663 618 679
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Group cash operating
cost per ounce(1)
($) 602 508 597 554 615
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Basic earnings per
share ($) 0.52 0.89 0.70 2.15 1.81
------------------------------ -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
1 Refer to explanation of non-GAAP measures provided.
Randgold consolidates 100% of Loulo, Gounkoto and
Tongon, 40% of Morila and 45% of Kibali in the consolidated
non-GAAP measures. Morila and Kibali are equity accounted
for under IFRS.
2 Cash and cash equivalents excludes $12.3 million
at 30 September 2017 ($17.9 million at 30 June 2017
and $11.3 million at 30 September 2016) that relates
to the group's attributable cash held in Morila,
Kibali and the group's asset leasing companies which
are equity accounted.
3 Gold on hand represents gold in doré at the
mines (attributable share) multiplied by the prevailing
spot gold price at the end of the period.
The results in this report have been neither reviewed
nor audited. All financial numbers are in US dollars
($) unless otherwise stated.
COMMENTS
Gold sales for the quarter of $387.8 million decreased by 8% from $422.1 million in the previous quarter. Group sales for the quarter of 302 620oz dropped by 10% from the previous quarter. The average gold price received of $1 281/oz increased by 2% quarter on quarter (Q2 2017: $1 254/oz). Gold sales were in line with the corresponding quarter of 2016.
Total cash costs for the quarter of $201.9 million were up 5% from the prior quarter and up 3% from the corresponding quarter of 2016. The increase in cash costs largely reflects the higher strip ratios at the Loulo-Gounkoto complex and at Tongon, in line with the mining plans, as the Gounkoto super pit stripping increased.
Total cash cost per ounce of $667/oz increased by 17% quarter on quarter and was in line with the corresponding quarter in 2016. The increase was driven by the increased costs highlighted above and decreased production at the Loulo-Gounkoto complex and at Tongon, following a drop in head grade milled. Costs per ounce were also higher at Tongon, on the back of reduced production following lower throughput and recovery. However, costs per ounce were positively impacted by reduced costs at Kibali, mainly on the back of a lower strip ratio and slightly higher grade.
Profit from mining decreased by 19% to $185.9 million from the previous quarter, and was down 6% on the corresponding quarter of 2016. The decrease from the prior quarter reflects the reduction in production and increased costs as explained above. The decrease from the corresponding quarter of 2016 reflects increased costs and a lower gold price received.
Exploration and corporate expenditure of $11.9 million decreased by 7% quarter on quarter, and was up 6% from the corresponding quarter in 2016. The decrease quarter on quarter reflects a reduction in general corporate expenditure. The increase compared to the corresponding quarter of the prior year was the result of increased greenfields exploration expenditure.
Depreciation and amortisation of $50.5 million increased by 20% from the previous quarter and by 26% from the corresponding quarter of 2016. The increase primarily follows a review of the useful lives of assets at the Loulo-Gounkoto complex and at Tongon, resulting in a one-off accelerated depreciation charge over the second half of the year, while higher throughput at the Loulo-Gounkoto complex also impacted the charge.
Other income in the quarter of $3.6 million decreased from the previous quarter, but increased from the corresponding quarter of the prior year. Management fees from Kibali and Morila, were in line with the previous quarter and the corresponding quarter of the prior year. A net operational foreign exchange gain of $2.3 million was included in other income during the current quarter. These gains and losses arise from the settlement of invoices in currencies other than the US dollar, as well as the translation of balances denominated in currencies such as the CFA franc, euro and South African rand to the US dollar rate and reflects the movements in these currencies during the respective quarter.
Share of profits from equity accounted joint ventures was $6.9 million compared to losses from joint ventures of $3.4 million in the previous quarter and a $6.0 million profit in Q3 2016. Kibali's share of equity accounted joint venture profits increased from a loss of $4.3 million in Q2 2017 to a profit of $6.0 million in the current quarter. Profit from mining for Kibali was $33.3 million for Q3 2017 compared to a profit of $23.8 million in Q2 2017, reflecting higher gold sales and lower cash costs.
The share of profits from the Kibali joint venture is stated after depreciation of $31.8 million (Q2 2017: $31.3 million), foreign exchange losses of $2.2 million (Q2 2017: $6.4 million), and a tax credit value of $6.2 million (Q2 2017: $11.2 million) related to a deferred tax asset associated with tax losses/allowances carried forward. The prior quarter also included a time value of money discount on the outstanding value added tax (TVA) balance of $2.7 million (Q3 2017: nil).
The foreign exchange losses incurred are the result of the continued depreciation in the Congolese franc compared to the US dollar and the conversion of TVA balances owed to Kibali which are denominated in Congolese franc.
Morila's share of equity accounted joint venture profits decreased slightly from a profit of $0.9 million in Q2 2017 to a profit of $0.7 million in Q3 2017.
Income tax expense of $36.5 million decreased by 23% from the charge in Q2 and increased by 13% from the corresponding quarter of 2016. The decrease quarter on quarter is mainly due to decreased profits at Loulo, Gounkoto and Tongon, while the increase from the corresponding quarter in 2016 reflects a withholding tax charge of $10.9 million incurred during the quarter on the payment of the annual Tongon dividend, partially offset by decreased profits at Loulo, Gounkoto and Tongon.
Profit for the quarter was down 41% from the previous quarter and down 22% from the corresponding quarter of 2016. The movement quarter on quarter reflect the decrease in profit from mining, the increase in the share of profits of equity accounted joint ventures and the increased depreciation and other charges during the quarter as explained above. The decrease from the corresponding quarter of 2016 mainly reflects the decrease in profit from mining and the increased depreciation charge.
Basic earnings per share decreased by 42% to $0.52 quarter on quarter (Q2 2017: $0.89) and by 26% compared to Q3 2016, reflecting lower profits.
Net cash generated from operating activities for the quarter of $118.9 million was down 10% from the previous quarter, and in line with the corresponding quarter in 2016, primarily reflecting the movement in profits from operations.
OPERATIONS
LOULO-GOUNKOTO COMPLEX
The combined quarterly gold production for the Loulo-Gounkoto complex was 172 350oz (Loulo 112 578oz and Gounkoto 59 773oz), a decrease of 11% compared to the previous record quarter (Q2 2017: 194 091oz), due to the lower grade but in line with plan. The total cash cost per ounce increased to $592/oz (Q2 2017: $458/oz), reflecting the lower production as well as an increase in mining costs associated with a higher strip ratio, in line with plan as part of the Gounkoto super pit pushback. The plant continued to operate efficiently, with good throughput and high recoveries.
Gold production for the first 9 months of the year was 552 807oz, 10% higher than the corresponding period of the prior year, while total cash costs were $525/oz, 12% lower than the prior comparative period. The increase in production and drop in total cash costs per ounce was mainly driven by an increase in average grade mined and drop in mining costs.
Sustainability
The complex continued to contribute to the development of its surrounding communities. Work has been ongoing to link the local food initiatives (especially the women's initiatives) to markets (including the mine catering company) and to find partners for the Loulo agricultural college. This objective was advanced by signing a EUR1.0 million cooperation convention with the German development agency (GIZ) and integrating the agricultural college into the local economic development framework. The construction of two secondary schools was completed during the quarter and they will be handed over during the next quarter. The mine has also successfully dealt with a few concerns raised by the community, and the quarter ended with no unresolved grievances. Similarly, 124ha of land was rehabilitated at the complex during the quarter and more than 15 000 trees planted as part of the drive to reduce the mines' footprint. The mines remain ISO 14001 certified, and during the quarter an ISO 14001:2015 gap audit was undertaken with minor gaps identified now being addressed.
LOULO-GOUNKOTO COMPLEX RESULTS
Quarter Quarter Quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep 30 Sep
2017 2017 2016 2017 2016
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Mining
Tonnes mined (000) 9 780 8 574 6 520 25 836 21 604
Ore tonnes mined (000) 976 1 771 1 057 3 898 3 287
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Milling
Tonnes processed (000) 1 265 1 223 1 189 3 651 3 612
Head grade milled
(g/t) 4.6 5.4 4.6 5.1 4.7
Recovery (%) 92.2 92.3 90.9 92.3 90.9
Ounces produced 172 350 194 091 158 248 552 807 500 993
Ounces sold 169 989 192 948 155 971 548 942 496 780
Average price received
($/oz) 1 285 1 258 1 332 1 254 1 257
Cash operating costs(1)
($/oz) 515 382 520 449 524
Total cash costs(1)
($/oz) 592 458 599 525 599
Gold on hand at period
end(2) ($000) 11 669 8 362 15 952 11 669 15 952
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Profit from mining
activity(1) ($000) 117 804 154 427 114 226 400 706 326 892
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Gold sales(1) ($000) 218 357 242 776 207 722 688 640 624 673
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
1 Refer to explanation of non-GAAP measures provided.
2 Gold on hand represents gold in doré at the mines
multiplied by the prevailing spot gold price at the
end of the period.
LOULO
No Lost Time Injury (LTI) was recorded during the quarter with a Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) of nil per million hours worked, the same as in Q2. No major environmental incidents occurred during the quarter.
On a standalone basis, Loulo produced 112 578oz of gold (Q2 2017: 123 969oz) at a total cash cost of $534/oz (Q2 2017: $479/oz). The decrease in production was mainly due to the lower head grade milled, per the mining plan for the quarter, with costs per ounce increasing in line with the lower production.
Profit from mining of $83.9 million was 12% lower than the previous quarter as a result of the lower production at a higher cost of production, partially offset by a slightly higher average gold price received.
The Baboto North target area of the Loulo exploitation permit is to be acquired by one of Endeavour Mining's subsidiaries in Mali, Mines de Kofi, and will be included in the Mines de Kofi permit adjacent to the Loulo permit, subject to approval from the Ministry of Mines in Mali. Loulo will receive $12.0 million from Mines de Kofi in respect of the Baboto North area.
Gold production for the first 9 months of the year was 341 885oz, 11% higher than the corresponding period of the prior year, while total cash costs were $516/oz, 8% lower than the prior comparative period. The increase in production and drop in total cash costs per ounce was mainly driven by an increase in average grade mined.
Capital expenditure
Total capital expenditure for Q3 was $20.5 million, mainly relating to the underground mine development ($15.2 million) and ongoing surface capital ($4.5 million), including brownfields drilling. Underground capital was focused on development at Yalea ($7.4 million) and Gara ($5.1 million).
LOULO STANDALONE RESULTS
Quarter Quarter Quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep 30 Sep
2017 2017 2016 2017 2016
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Mining
Tonnes mined (000) 682 681 680 2 003 2 017
Ore tonnes mined
(000) 674 670 678 1 976 1 988
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Milling
Tonnes processed
(000) 678 644 658 1 920 1 917
Head grade milled
(g/t) 5.6 6.5 5.4 6.0 5.5
Recovery (%) 92.2 92.3 90.9 92.3 90.9
Ounces produced 112 578 123 969 103 871 341 885 308 029
Ounces sold 111 873 122 168 102 567 339 039 303 783
Average price received
($/oz) 1 284 1 258 1 332 1 256 1 261
Cash operating costs(1)
($/oz) 457 404 497 441 483
Total cash costs(1)
($/oz) 534 479 577 516 559
Gold on hand at period
end(2) ($000) 7 133 6 030 10 339 7 133 10 339
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Profit from mining
activity(1) ($000) 83 916 95 116 77 444 250 686 213 314
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Gold sales(1) ($000) 143 610 153 671 136 601 425 727 383 065
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Randgold owns 80% of Société des Mines de Loulo
SA (Loulo) and the State of Mali owns 20%. Randgold has
funded the whole investment in Loulo by way of shareholder
loans and therefore controls 100% of the cash flows from
Loulo until the shareholder loans are repaid.
Randgold consolidates 100% of Loulo and shows the non-controlling
interest separately.
1 Refer to explanation of non-GAAP measures provided.
2 Gold on hand represents gold in doré at the mines
multiplied by the prevailing spot gold price at the
end of the period.
Loulo underground
Underground ore production was higher than the previous quarter, in line with the strategy to catch up on the shortfall from Q1. Improved stoping flexibility in Gara has improved the overall productivity of the mine. At the same time, development towards Yalea South lower is ongoing, in order to establish more stoping flexibility with bottom-up mining anticipated. Bottom-up stoping at Yalea Northern extreme commenced during the quarter.
Optimisation of the paste backfill system to improve flexibility and cost effectiveness is ongoing. The use of slag to reduce cement consumption was introduced during July, and lower strength paste backfill is expected to be used for the bottom-up mining.
The new Yalea crusher and conveyor system was commissioned during the quarter. This has improved the productivity of the trucks by reducing the hauling distance from mining areas.
LOULO UNDERGROUND RESULTS
Quarter Quarter Quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep 30 Sep
2017 2017 2016 2017 2016
-------------------- -------- -------- -------- ---------- ----------
YALEA
Ore tonnes mined 371 972 384 260 391 689 1 119 130 1 145 971
Development metres 1 381 1 782 1 548 4 873 5 581
-------------------- -------- -------- -------- ---------- ----------
GARA
Ore tonnes mined 302 030 286 171 285 978 857 002 841 622
Development metres 1 835 1 974 1 362 5 718 4 966
-------------------- -------- -------- -------- ---------- ----------
GOUNKOTO
No LTI was recorded during the quarter with a LTIFR of nil per million hours worked, the same as in the previous quarter.
No major environmental incidents occurred during the quarter.
On a standalone basis, Gounkoto produced 59 773oz of gold (Q2 2017: 70 122oz) at a total cash cost of $703/oz (Q2 2017: $421/oz). The decrease in production was mainly due to the lower head grade milled (17%), in line with the mining plan, which blended full grade ore mined from the pit with lower grade ore from the stockpiles, as part of the super pit pushback schedule. Total cash cost per ounce increased on the back of the lower grade and production and was also impacted by higher mining costs, reflecting the increased strip ratio.
Profit from mining for the quarter of $33.9 million was lower than the previous quarter (Q2 2017: $59.3 million), reflecting the higher cost and lower gold produced and sold, partially offset by a slightly higher average gold price received.
Gold production for the first 9 months of the year was 210 922oz, 9% higher than the corresponding period of the prior year, while total cash costs were $538/oz, 19% lower than the prior comparative period. The increase in production and drop in total cash costs per ounce was mainly driven by an increase in average grade mined and drop in mining costs.
Capital expenditure
Total capital expenditure for Q3 was $16.8 million, primarily relating to deferred stripping activities ($12.4 million), mining fleet rebuild activities ($2.9 million), water diversion development and further drill testing of extensions of the higher grade shoots within the pit.
GOUNKOTO STANDALONE RESULTS
Quarter Quarter Quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep 30 Sep
2017 2017 2016 2017 2016
--------------------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Mining
Tonnes mined (000) 9 098 7 893 5 840 23 833 19 587
Ore tonnes mined (000) 302 1 101 379 1 922 1 300
--------------------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Milling
Tonnes processed (000) 587 579 531 1 731 1 694
Head grade milled (g/t) 3.4 4.1 3.5 4.1 3.9
Recovery (%) 92.3 92.3 90.9 92.4 90.9
Ounces produced 59 773 70 122 54 377 210 922 192 964
Ounces sold 58 116 70 780 53 404 209 903 192 996
Average price received ($/oz) 1 286 1 259 1 332 1 253 1 252
Cash operating costs(1) ($/oz) 626 345 563 463 588
Total cash costs(1) ($/oz) 703 421 643 538 663
Gold on hand at period end(2) ($000) 4 536 2 332 5 613 4 536 5 613
--------------------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Profit from mining activity(1) ($000) 33 889 59 311 36 782 150 020 113 578
--------------------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Gold sales(1) ($000) 74 747 89 105 71 121 262 913 241 608
--------------------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Randgold owns 80% of Société des Mines de Gounkoto SA (Gounkoto) and the State
of Mali 20%. Randgold consolidates 100% of Gounkoto and shows the non-controlling interest
separately.
1 Refer to explanation of non-GAAP measures provided.
2 Gold on hand represents gold in doré at the mines
multiplied by the prevailing spot gold price at the
end of the period.
MORILA
The quarter ended with no LTI recorded and the LTIFR was nil (Q2 2017: nil). No major environmental incidents occurred during the quarter.
Q3 gold production amounted to 15 959oz, in line with the previous quarter (Q2 2017: 16 057oz), with increased recoveries being offset by slightly lower grade and throughout. The mine performed a one week trial feed campaign of Domba open pit material, at a lower tonnage. The head grade also decreased to 0.5g/t for the quarter (Q2 2017: 0.6g/t) as the mine progressively switches the TSF operation from the coarse wall to the in-dam basin material where the current areas exposed have a slightly lower grade. The decapping operation continued and 1 837kt of waste material was hydro sluiced to the pit (Q2 2017: 1 925kt), despite the impact of heavy rains during the quarter.
Total cash costs for the quarter were $1 029/oz, an 11% increase compared to the previous quarter (Q2 2017: $927/oz). This was the result of the lower grade TSF material processed, combined with the week trial on Domba material mined at a higher cost compared to the TSF operation.
Mining began at the Domba satellite pit in September and the mine is building up a stockpile for an ore campaign to the plant in Q4. The relocation action programme (RAP) has been completed within the specific terms agreed with community representatives.
Work on the development programmes for the Ntiola and Viper deposits continued during the quarter and the mine has filed the necessary documentation for the transfer of the related portion of the Birimian permits into the Morila mining permit.
Gold production for the first 9 months of the year was 45 586oz, 12% higher than the corresponding period of the prior year, while total cash costs was $1 006/oz, 5% lower than the prior comparative period. The increase in production and drop in total cash costs per ounce was mainly driven by an increase in throughput and drop in unit costs.
Sustainability
No major environmental incidents occurred and the mine is on track to update its environmental management system to comply with ISO 14001:2015.
A few concerns which were raised by the community, relating to the Domba project, have subsequently been addressed. The mine will continue to comply with the protocol signed by the Minister of Mines and the Domba community representative.
The Morila closure committee and representatives from the local community and local authorities visited the Songhai Project in Benin and all agreed to the model being applied at Morila. Following approval of the plan by the Morila board, it will be submitted to the Government and local authorities for approval.
Morila entered into a tripartite partnership with the NGO CADJ/Diakonia and the town halls of Sanso and Domba for the economic development of women.
Capital expenditure
There was no significant capital expenditure at Morila during this quarter.
MORILA RESULTS
Quarter Quarter Quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep 30 Sep
2017 2017 2016 2017 2016
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Mining
Tonnes mined (000) 569 - - 569 -
Ore tonnes mined (000) 62 - - 62 -
TSF material processed
(000) 1 345 1 451 505 4 261 553
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Milling
Tonnes processed (000) 1 415 1 482 922 4 331 2 513
Head grade milled
(g/t) 0.5 0.6 0.4 0.5 0.6
Recovery (%) 64.7 61.1 80.7 61.2 86.7
Ounces produced 15 959 16 057 10 084 45 585 40 707
Ounces sold 14 901 16 422 8 876 45 090 39 499
Average price received
($/oz) 1 295 1 268 1 334 1 267 1 259
Cash operating costs(1)
($/oz) 952 850 1 351 929 985
Total cash costs(1)
($/oz) 1 029 927 1 432 1 006 1 061
Profit/(loss) from
mining activity(1)
($000) 3 962 5 611 (863) 11 804 7 852
Attributable (40%)
Gold sales(1) ($000) 7 720 8 330 4 737 22 858 19 898
Ounces produced 6 384 6 423 4 034 18 234 16 283
Ounces sold 5 960 6 568 3 550 18 036 15 800
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Profit/(loss) from
mining activity(1)
($000) 1 585 2 244 (345) 4 722 3 141
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Gold on hand at period
end(2) ($000) 1 054 578 639 1 054 639
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Randgold owns 40% of Société des Mines de Morila SA (Morila) with the State
of Mali and joint venture partner owning 20% and 40% respectively. The group equity accounts
for its 40% joint venture holding in Morila.
1 Refer to explanation of non-GAAP measures provided.
2 Gold on hand represents gold in doré at the mines
multiplied by the prevailing spot gold price at the
end of the period.
TONGON
One LTI and no major environmental incidents were recorded in Q3 2017 with an LTIFR of 0.84 compared to 2.48 in Q2 2017. The emphasis on safety and training is ongoing and includes ensuring all personnel carry out effective risk assessments prior to each task.
Tongon produced 66 811oz of gold in Q3 2017, down 14% from the previous quarter (Q2 2017: 77 620oz) as a result of a decrease in grade, throughput and recovery. Lower throughput stemmed from the extended commissioning and troubleshooting of a new mill discharge liner grate system installed in one of the mills. During this period, plant feed grade and recovery were affected by feeding lower grade oxide and transition ore. The mine has subsequently improved its milling operations on both mills and is increasing its throughput with the installation of another 8MW motor to replace the existing 7MW unit on mill 2 and fitting lower profile liners in addition to the grate discharge system.
Total cash costs in Q3 2017 increased to $800/oz (Q1 2017: $639/oz) on the back of the decreased production and higher mining costs related to an increase in strip ratio, in line with the mining plan.
The grid to generated power ratio was 93:7 for Q3 compared to 94:6 in Q2. Grid power instability was mainly caused by voltage and frequency fluctuations on the international power line between Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, Burkina Faso and Ghana. The new powerhouse double busbar system, which was installed and commissioned in Q2, is allowing the mine better management of its grid power supply, distribution and usage and provides a degree of flexibility to manage power fluctuations and disruptions.
Profit from mining activity decreased by 35% to $30.1 million in Q3, mainly due to lower ounces sold and higher operating costs.
Gold production for the first 9 months of the year was 211 291oz, 20% higher than the corresponding period of the prior year, while total cash costs was $683/oz, 19% lower than the prior comparative period. The increase in production and drop in total cash costs per ounce was mainly driven by an increase in throughput, improved recoveries and drop in unit costs.
TONGON RESULTS
Quarter Quarter Quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep 30 Sep
2017 2017 2016 2017 2016
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Mining
Tonnes mined (000) 6 779 5 873 6 288 18 100 21 406
Ore tonnes mined
(000) 860 1 104 1 162 3 110 3 034
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Milling
Tonnes processed
(000) 1 062 1 126 1 014 3 221 2 732
Head grade milled
(g/t) 2.3 2.5 2.6 2.4 2.4
Recovery (%) 83.6 84.3 84.2 83.9 83.2
Ounces produced 66 811 77 260 71 187 211 291 175 700
Ounces sold 62 001 75 052 69 236 209 726 173 131
Average price received
($/oz) 1 286 1 253 1 333 1 254 1 269
Cash operating costs(1)
($/oz) 761 601 692 645 804
Total cash costs(1)
($/oz) 800 639 732 683 842
Gold on hand at period
end(2) ($000) 9 836 3 545 5 361 9 836 5 361
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Profit from mining
activity(1) ($000) 30 158 46 066 41 565 119 737 73 938
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Gold sales(1) ($000) 79 735 94 018 92 275 262 958 219 716
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Randgold owns 89.7% of Société des Mines de Tongon SA (Tongon) with the State
of Côte d'Ivoire and outside shareholders owning 10% and 0.3% respectively. Randgold
consolidates 100% of Tongon and shows the non-controlling interest separately.
1 Refer to explanation of non-GAAP measures provided.
2 Gold on hand represents gold in doré at the mines
multiplied by the prevailing spot gold price at the
end of the period.
Sustainability
No major environmental incidents occurred and the mine is on track to update its environmental management system to comply with ISO 14001:2015.
The community project focus in Q3 was mainly on water supply systems. Construction of the nearby village water installations to the value of $0.5 million have started, with approval and input from the government water authorities. An additional project currently underway is the construction of the surrounding village chiefs' residences and administration houses, administered by the local government authorities, to the value of $0.4 million. A convention outlining the 'principles of use' of the government-owned houses has been signed by the local authorities, the village representatives and Tongon management.
The agribusiness farming project has seen good growth as a result of rigorous monitoring of the farm development and the widespread rains recorded. An area of 305ha of the targeted 300ha of the surrounding village farms, has been cultivated with maize.
Capital expenditure
Capital expenditure in Q3 was $5.6 million, mainly in respect of mining fleet rebuild activities ($3.7 million), the fourth flotation rougher cell installation ($0.9 million) and exploration activities ($0.4 million).
KIBALI
Kibali recorded one LTI during the quarter, compared with two in the previous quarter, giving a LTIFR of 0.31 (Q2: LTIFR: 0.62). No major environmental incidents occurred during the quarter.
Kibali produced 144 608oz in Q3, 2% above Q2, in line with plan. Production is anticipated to ramp-up in Q4, on completion of the commissioning of the underground haulage and shaft hosting system, which remains on a tight schedule. Plant throughput was in line with the previous quarter and still above nameplate design while full sulphide feed volumes were further increased. Recovery, however, dropped to 83.5% in the current quarter from 84.3% in Q2, reflecting the change in feed blend in line with the respective pits' mining schedules. Total cash costs decreased 12% to $753/oz as a result of a slightly higher grade, increased proportion of hydropower associated with wet season higher river levels and lower mining costs following a reduction in strip ratio.
Profit from mining activity increased 40% to $73.9 million in the current quarter (Q2 2017: $52.9 million), reflecting the lower cost of production and higher gold sales.
Gold production for the first 9 months of the year was 426 825oz, 6% higher than the corresponding period of the prior year, while total cash costs was $817/oz, 6% higher than the prior comparative period. The increase in production was mainly driven by an increase in throughput and recoveries. The increase in total cash costs per ounce was driven by a drop in average grade mined and increase in mining costs.
Sustainability
The Gorumbwa resettlement programme continued without disruption during the quarter, with more than 60% of the planned communal infrastructure (eg schools, clinics, places of worship) handed over to the community. Kibali strengthened its relationship with the Garamba National Park and contributed to its biodiversity protection through the funding of their latest elephant collaring campaign.
KIBALI RESULTS
Quarter Quarter Quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep 30 Sep
2017 2017 2016 2017 2016
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Mining
Tonnes mined (000) 9 663 7 827 7 453 27 644 22 068
Ore tonnes mined
(000) 1 644 1 262 1 458 4 574 4 562
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Milling
Tonnes processed
(000) 1 840 1 854 1 950 5 615 5 270
Head grade milled
(g/t) 2.9 2.8 2.9 2.9 3.0
Recovery (%) 83.5 84.3 81.8 82.9 78.2
Ounces produced 144 608 141 204 150 431 426 825 403 540
Ounces sold 143 711 137 661 146 639 440 078 402 084
Average price received
($/oz) 1 267 1 243 1 334 1 237 1 264
Cash operating costs(1)
($/oz) 694 803 687 760 711
Total cash costs(1)
($/oz) 753 859 747 817 768
Profit from mining
activity(1) ($000) 73 928 52 956 87 269 185 016 199 484
Attributable (45%)
Gold sales(1) ($000) 81 963 77 013 88 042 245 059 228 691
Ounces produced 65 074 63 542 67 694 192 071 181 593
Ounces sold 64 670 61 947 65 988 198 035 180 938
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Profit from mining
activity(1) ($000) 33 268 23 830 39 271 83 257 90 263
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Gold on hand at period
end(2) ($000) 7 332 6 597 5 854 7 332 5 854
------------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Randgold owns 45% of Kibali Goldmines SA (Kibali) with the Democratic Republic of Congo
(DRC) State and joint venture partner owning 10% and 45% respectively. The group equity
accounts for its 45% joint venture holding in Kibali.
1 Refer to explanation of non-GAAP measures provided.
2 Gold on hand represents gold in doré at the mines
multiplied by the prevailing spot gold price at the
end of the period.
Construction of the metallurgical facility and infrastructure
Construction of the tailings return water detox facility was completed and commissioned at the end of the quarter. This should facilitate improved return water quality and thus recovery benefits, as well as improving water management within the tailings storage facilities.
Azambi, the third new hydropower plant, remains on schedule for commissioning and first power in Q2 2018.
Declines
The underground produced 448kt of ore from the declines in Q3, a 14% increase from the previous quarter and 39% above Q1, in line with the 2017 ramp-up schedule. In addition, Kibali completed 2.9km of development from the declines during the quarter.
KIBALI UNDERGROUND DECLINE RESULTS
Quarter Quarter Quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep 30 Sep
2017 2017 2016 2017 2016
-------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
1 163 1 115
Ore tonnes mined 448 338 391 790 372 232 116 761
Development metres 2 925 3 066 3 658 9 185 9 679
-------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Vertical shaft
The Shaft Sinkers contract was concluded during the quarter, with the completion of the underground materials handling system. Paving of the haulage level and automation development also progressed during the quarter, targeting the full commissioning and ramp-up of the underground haulage and shaft ore delivery system in Q4.
KIBALI VERTICAL SHAFT RESULTS
Quarter Quarter Quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep 30 Sep
2017 2017 2016 2017 2016
----------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Quarter Quarter Quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep 30 Sep
2017 2017 2016 2017 2016
----------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Off shaft development
metres 116 524 959 1 257 2 058
----------------------- -------- -------- -------- --------- ---------
Capital expenditure
Capital expenditure for the quarter amounted to $65.8 million (at 100%), with Kibali's main expenses still related to the underground development ($38.8 million), including the haulage level construction to enable the commissioning of the automated material handling in Q4. The majority of the remaining capital expenditure relates to the Azambi hydroproject ($4.8 million), the Gorumbwa RAP ($4.4 million) and stripping activities mainly at the Pakaka and Kombokolo pits ($7.3 million).
DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
SENEGAL
Massawa feasibility project
Work continued at the Massawa feasibility project this quarter.
At Sofia North, infill drilling was completed following the positive trenching reported last quarter. Drilling results are reported under the exploration section and have confirmed the mineralisation identified in the trenches, which will allow for an expansion of the Sofia reserve. Geotechnical drilling and metallurgical sampling was undertaken with testwork indicating a metallurgical recovery of 83% in the fresh material.
Results of the first of four Central Zone pilot plant campaigns were completed and showed an 80% overall recovery using gravity and leach. The back-calculated grade of the 2.5t sample returned a higher grade than the block model due to the presence of a coarse high grade component. The leachwell assay of the head grade reconciled well with the geological grade of the samples and was confirmed to be the superior assay method over fire assay for this style of mineralisation. The second pilot plant sample for the Central Zone has been shipped and the test work is planned for completion in Q4. The samples of the drilling for pilot plant campaigns 3 and 4 are currently being assayed, but the large number of samples has caused a backlog at the laboratory, pushing out the completion of the pilot plant campaigns to Q1 2018. The completion of these campaigns is critical in verifying the expected metallurgical response for the southern and central portions of the Central Zone.
The first of two bio-oxidation pilot plant campaigns is nearing completion and is showing good oxidation and dissolution of the gold. The focus now is to optimise the flotation parameters required to maximise the overall recovery of the Massawa ore and confirm if a benign tailings material can be generated.
Significant high grade intersections from Delya which lies north of the Massawa North Zone will require metallurgical batch testing to confirm if the fresh ore is amenable to bio-oxidation. Bottle roll work has confirmed the ore is refractory to direct leach which has resulted in the need to resize the bio-oxidation route of the proposed plant. Drilling in Q4 will be directed towards determining the size of the Delya deposit.
Sterilisation drilling and satellite exploration also continued during the quarter, together with environmental, social, hydrological and ground water testwork.
Capital expenditure
Capital expenditure for the quarter amounted to $10.8 million and related mainly to feasibility drilling activities.
EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES
Results this quarter were largely derived from our brownfields projects due to the annual wet season. However, the exploration teams have had a busy quarter with positive exploration results from Massawa in Senegal and from the deeper work on deposits in both Loulo and Kibali. In Côte d'Ivoire a wide-spaced drilling programme over 9km of strike at Fonondara was completed and confirmed over 4km of strike of higher grade mineralisation. Projects without results this quarter, due to the wet season, have not been reported here but interpretation and target generation exercises have been completed across the portfolio in preparation for the new field season.
MALI
Loulo
At Yalea, advanced grade control drilling at depth in the south of the deposit delivered robust intercepts at the limit of the block model (YaDH23: 24.20m @ 4.88g/t and YaDH31: 10.20m @ 5.12g/t), while confirming high grade mineralisation associated with the Yalea plunge and intersection targets (YaDH27: 30.74m @ 9.69g/t and YaDH28: 7.3m @ 15.46g/t). Step-out exploration drilling has validated a 300m extension to the Yalea plunge target, with YDH274 returning an intercept of 35.3m @ 19.85g/t from 738.2m, TW: 9m. This high grade Yalea plunge target is currently the focus of exploration work at Yalea.
The higher grade mineralisation in the plunge target enhances the economics of the deeper Yalea intersection target, a panel of mineralisation developed along footwall lithological contact. This panel is currently being drill tested and is planned to be converted to resources in 2018. At Loulo 3, infill drilling has been completed on schedule and strong results to date show a potential of 0.69Mt @ 8.79g/t for +180koz at MZ1 and 1.6Mt @ 7.82g/t for +400koz at MZ2, down to -400m RL. This project has the potential to pass Randgold's filter for a high grade, underground operation at Loulo and work will continue in order to establish an underground resource. RC drilling at Saba identified a 500m portion of strike with sub-economic mineralisation averaging 0.82g/t at a true width of 8.2m. In the new field season, surface exploration over the remaining 4.1km of mapped strike north to the permit boundary is planned ahead of reranking opportunities along the entire system and the generation of new targets across the project to replenish the base of the resource triangle.
Gounkoto project
Scout RC drilling at Faraba North did not confirm near surface mineralisation along target structures or surficial extensions to interpreted higher grade shoots. Higher grade intercepts from a hematite zone in the hanging wall of the system this quarter (FARC619: 5.5m @ 3.73g/t and 7m @ 5.38g/t) are being analysed in context of previous drilling, to investigate potential for a small open pit resource on this structure. A drilling programme to test potential structural controls to high grade intercepts from previous trenching (FT42Ex: 13.6m @ 6.98g/t) and drilling (FADH016: 2.85m @ 5.44g/t) on the domain boundary at Faraba West, will be carried out in Q4. Going forward, the aim of the greenfields programme at Gounkoto is to generate higher quality greenfields targets along the entire Domain Boundary which is a significant structure intimately associated with mineralisation at Gounkoto.
SENEGAL
As the Massawa feasibility study progresses, the potential from a number of large exploration targets around the main deposits is now the focus of the exploration team. The recent successes at Sofia have confirmed the potential for additional ounces on the project and work has started on Delya, Makana and Kaviar while further work is planned at KB, Kawsara, Sofia North extension and the northern strike extension of the main Massawa deposit.
The most significant new intersections for the quarter were identified at Delya where an infill drilling programme was completed over a 1km strike length of the Delya Main deposit where an inferred resource of 1.07Mt @ 3.57g/t for 122koz currently exists. New results include: DLRC034 - 14m @ 5.29g/t from 132m; DLRC035 - 10m @ 9.66g/t from 67m; DLRC036 - 15m @ 5.93g/t from 15m; and DLRC038 - 20m @ 5.73g/t from 44m. The drilling confirmed the high grade shoot in the north of the deposit and overall returned better grades than the existing model.
At Delya South, a phased scout step-out RC drill programme was completed delineating a 1.8km strike extension of the Delya Main system at 300m spacing. Drill results have not yet been received, however, the expected mineralisation of the main shear averages 5m true width with expected grade varying between 2 and 5g/t. Silica brecciation and alteration increase to the south. An estimated potential of +100 000oz of free-milling oxide ore at Delya will be further assessed in Q4, together with the sulphide potential of Delya Main.
At Sofia North, an infill RC and diamond drill programme was completed following up from the successful trench and RC drill programme in Q2. This included a 30m by 30m infill programme over a 600m strike length with the aim to deliver further upside while converting the resource from inferred to indicated. Significant results from the RC drilling confirmed the elevated grades and thicknesses in this part of the deposit: SFRC201 - 17m @ 5.12g/t from 86m including 10m @ 7.71g/t and 15m @ 3.39g/t from 112m including 8m @ 4.52g/t; and SFRC203 - 33m @ 3.36g/t from 22m including 7m @ 9.10g/t. From diamond drilling: 9.15m @ 3.02g/t from 155.45m including 2.45m @ 6.05g/t from 156.15m.
Drill results also indicate a steep north-plunging high grade shoot (+3g/t). Drillhole SFDDH052A (Line 16) returned 7.1m @ 3.79g/t from 174.65m including 2.5m @ 7.6g/t in the hangingwall structure and 8.6m @ 3.21g/t from 181.7m including 3.25m @ 5.83g/t from the Main Zone. Moving into Q4, further exploration work will focus on drill testing the northerly strike extent of the Sofia-Sabodala mineralised corridor.
On the KB and Kaviar targets, positive results from field observations and lithosampling confirmed the potential for significant gold mineralisation and confirmed ENE structural trends identified from remote sensing and geophysics interpretation. Highlights include 4.64g/t, 4g/t, 3.38g/t and 2.01g/t from lithosamples associated with exposed areas of significant carbonate +/- silica alteration with visible sulphides +/- quartz-carbonate veining. An old Randgold trench from the target intersected 14m @ 18.42g/t including 2m @ 115.4g/t and 6m @ 1.57g/t. A diamond drilling programme has started to provide the geological framework of these targets before closer spaced RC drilling is undertaken.
At Makana, the first hole of the programme intersected multiple mineralised quartz veins but failed to intersect the main target and follow-up drilling will test an alternative model once access is possible again after the wet season.
CÔTE D'IVOIRE
In Q3, the CDI team completed a large RC drilling programme over the 9km Fonondara trend on the Boundiali permit, confirming multiple zones of mineralisation. A trenching programme was also completed at Gbongogo south which continued to confirm the potential of that target. A 70:30 joint venture between Randgold and Endeavour Mining was also signed, combining Randgold's Mankono permit with Endeavour Mining's Sissedougou permit, thereby providing Randgold with access to the prospective ground to the immediate north of Mankono.
Boundiali
Following up on the strong Q2 drill results from Fonondara, a drilling programme was completed this quarter which infilled the 9km Fonondara trend to a maximum line spacing of 300m to provide the key geological information on the controls on mineralisation. This drilling has significantly improved the geological model and highlighted untested opportunities along the corridor. Additionally, it has identified multiple mineralised lenses with a cumulative strike length of over 4km which will be further tested in Q4. Fonondara is a hydrothermal system up to 350m wide and at least 9km long consisting of anastomosing carbonaceous shears with at least three styles of mineralisation. A potential resource of 700koz has been defined in the Fonondara Main zone, a 700m long zone of multiple mineralised structures which remains open to the south and at depth. In the south of the Fonondara corridor, the mineralisation in a second 700m long zone is a high grade quartz-carbonate vein accompanied by disseminated sulphides. Results from this southern part of the system returned 11m @ 18.73g/t including 9m @ 22.75g/t from 92m and 10m @ 2.09g/t including 2m @ 13.45g/t from 43m.
Additional opportunities include the continuation towards the north and south of the Fonondara main system which is possibly masked by a thrust and laterite cover. Along strike, on the Fonondara structure, the team is defining a set of targets for follow-up work.
Mankono
Exploration for additional potential continued at Gbongogo, with a trenching programme to the south and west of the main target highlighting significant potential, while further work confirmed lower grades (1g/t) in the Dokeka target located 3km east of Gbongogo.
This quarter, 10 trenches (GBTR044 to GBTR053) were excavated in the new extension of Gbongogo targeting NS trending mineralised shears outside the intrusion. All the trenches have intersected a quartz tourmaline veining system and are highlighting a broadly NS oriented mineralised system over a 300m wide corridor and 1km strike. The northern trench, GBTR050, intersected a +58m wide alteration and veining system with an intersection of 18.40m @ 3.04g/t including higher grade zones of 3m @ 3.28g/t and 1.10m @ 33.25g/t, indicating the target is still open towards the north. Towards the south of the strong result reported last quarter from GBTR043: 39.40m @ 1.78g/t including 23.40m @ 2.68g/t and 15.30m @ 3.68g/t, while new trench GBTR046 yielded a strong zone of mineralisation with 16.10m @ 6.76g/t including 4.10m @ 5.0g/t hosted in the sheared and tourmaline altered amphibolite dyke and 7m @ 10.94g/t from a strong quartz-tourmaline-pyrite shear affecting the contact between the intrusive and the sediment. Similarly, consistent and strong gold grades were returned from the quartz tourmaline veins with up to 178g/t from selective samples.
To the west of the main shear, weak intersections from trenches not reaching the in-situ saprolite due to the deep cover are also of interest and will be tested by drilling in Q4. The Gbongogo system is still open towards both the north and south and features strong soil anomalism in both directions, while a number of large soil anomalies to the east and west of the target provide further upside.
Nielle
At Tongon NZ the focus for exploration is testing for a significant underground resource which would be down plunge of the current NZ open pit, within +/-500m of the granodiorite. This is due to the mineralised system being strongest within a certain radius of the core of the Skarn system. Two deep diamond drillholes will test this opportunity in Q4.
DRC
Kibali
Results of the two diamond holes drilled to test the down-plunge continuation of the Kombokolo mineralisation were received early this quarter. The results support the down-plunge continuity of the main 1001 mineralised lens 200m beyond the pit shell but the high grade mineralisation within the envelope is decreasing and getting narrower with depth.
At Rhino-Agbarabo, a second phase of infill drilling was completed to better understand the structural controls of the high grade shoots and to test for the continuity of high grade mineralisation intersected in previous holes. Results confirmed the continuity of the mineralised structures but indicated that very high grade mineralisation is confined to isolated rods within the system.
The consolidated model contains seven mineralised lenses with five lenses requiring follow-up work. These lenses are located within north dipping mineralised structures which can be traced through the target. The weighted averages from these five lenses are 5.7m @ 3.44g/t over 250m strike in the Upper Hanging Wall lens, 9.09m @ 2.18g/t over 430m strike in the Lower Hanging Wall lens, 10.4m @ 4.64g/t over 40m strike in the main Agbarabo lens, 6.42m @ 2.75g/t over 235m in the Agbarabo South lens and 14.6m @ 2.16g/t over 180m strike in the Rhino 1001 lens. This target contains a significant amount of high grade mineralisation which has now been modelled and which may be a larger open pit mining opportunity than previously recognised. At the same time, the high grade shoots are open down-plunge and require further evaluation for underground mining potential.
A deep hole (DDD602) totalling 1 490m was completed this quarter at KCD, testing the model of a folded banded ironstone with mineralisation located on the limbs, in the fold hinges or along axial planes. The hole tested the model which was projected 600m down-plunge from existing data. The hole intersected a series of BIF packages that are interpreted as being part of the same KCD folded sequence. Zones of strong silica carbonate alteration with disseminated pyrite were intersected in expected zones for the 3000, 5000, and 9000 lodes. Additionally, a wide zone of strong alteration with pyrite and arsenopyrite mineralisation was intersected below the interpreted 9000 lode extension, adding weight to the model of an additional mineralised lens beneath the 9000 lode, potentially where the Sessengue SW target locates up-plunge. Results are still pending, however, the hole confirms the plunge extent of the Kibali system and provides a framework for extension and targeting at KCD in the near to mid future.
At Ikamva, a model of a plunging mineralised fold hinge, based on recent work, was projected to depth. Pit optimisation on this conceptual target suggests a potential of 100koz at 2.5g/t in a $1 000/oz pit shell. A drilling programme to confirm this down-plunge potential is planned for Q4. If present, this mineralisation would form part of the Kalimva target area resource.
At Kalimva, close to Ikamva, a model of a planar mineralised structure containing multiple high grade shoots was further tested this quarter. Nineteen holes have been completed on five fences, intersecting lithologies of ironstone, meta-sediments, felsic intrusive and basalt, supporting surface mapping. Results are variable and show a bimodal gold distribution with wide, high grade intersections in the shoots connected by narrow, weakly mineralised structures. Best results of: KVRC0025 - 22m @ 4.7g/t; and KVRC0041 - 24m @ 4.46g/t indicate the potential continuity of these shoots, which, if confirmed, will lift the resource grade of the target.
Moku JV (SMB)
During the quarter a review of the regolith in the project area was completed. This concluded that transported material at surface is not an issue, and as a result a large, regional soil-sampling programme has now begun over target areas that coincide with anomalous basins. The priority targets on the project are Moku South-West, Concasseur, Mutubi-Ganga-Panier Circule and Zembe on the KZ trend. The large, difficult-to-access Gau Basin along with the largely-unworked Ikampiko Flats area were identified for an infill BLEG programme.
Fieldwork began this quarter on the Concasseur AOI and progress has already highlighted the prospectivity of the area with lithosample results of 6.9g/t and 13.1g/t within strongly-silicified BIF and metasediment with accompanying albite, limonite and lesser hematite alteration and disseminated oxides in weathered rock.
Ngayu JV (Loncor/Devon)
The generative review of the project completed last quarter defined the most prospective exploration area in the Ngayu belt as the Imva trend containing the targets of Mondarabe, Nagasa, Matete and Itali located along a major transcrustal domain-boundary structure in the extreme west of the belt. The rehabilitation of trails and tracks to provide access to this area is in progress and estimated to be 50% complete.
While this work is in progress the team has focused on a second order target area in the SE of the belt, which is interpreted to be roof pendant sediments over a large plutonic complex. The Anguluku target is an old colonial gold working which has seen significant artisanal activity over the years.
Field work at Anguluku this quarter identified two sub-parallel mineralised trends in the SE of the target area. Separated by around 650m, the 5km long Maka and Sukisa trends feature disseminated pyrite mineralisation in altered sediments with silica and carbonate alteration developed most strongly on lithological contacts. Results are pending.
A second target area in the NE of Anguluku features a mineralised and altered contact between granitic rocks and metasediments which is exposed along the Gowa River. The mineralisation outcrops sporadically over 200m in one location and 20m in a second location which appears to be a sub-parallel zone. Results are pending and work will focus on extending these zones while further evaluating the rest of the Anguluku target.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Unaudited Unaudited Unaudited Unaudited Unaudited
quarter quarter quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep 30 Sep
$000 2017 2017 2016 2017 2016
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
REVENUES
Gold sales on spot 298 093 336 794 299 998 951 599 844 390
Total revenues 298 093 336 794 299 998 951 599 844 390
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Share of profits/(losses)
of equity accounted joint
ventures 6 909 (3 434) 5 966 (1 742) 20 542
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Other income 3 608 7 529 1 196 13 543 4 732
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total income 308 610 340 889 307 160 963 400 869 664
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
COST AND EXPENSES
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Mine production costs 121 428 117 162 120 995 350 155 354 305
Movement in production
inventory and ore stockpiles (3 305) (14 390) (6 855) (15 593) (113)
Depreciation and amortisation 50 540 42 190 40 120 131 739 113 944
Other mining and processing
costs 16 540 16 162 14 853 47 453 45 362
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Mining and processing
costs 185 203 161 124 169 113 513 754 513 498
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Royalties 15 468 17 367 15 214 49 141 44 007
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Exploration and corporate
expenditure 11 882 12 823 11 212 35 613 33 205
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Other expenses - - 1 965 - 3 976
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total costs 212 553 191 314 197 504 598 508 594 686
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Finance income 1 148 1 019 249 2 936 1 099
Finance costs (420) (437) (430) (1 267) (1 266)
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Finance income/(costs)
- net 728 582 (181) 1 669 (167)
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Profit before income
tax 96 785 150 157 109 475 366 561 274 811
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
(118
Income tax expense (36 537) (47 369) (32 222) 601) (74 914)
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Profit for the period 60 248 102 788 77 253 247 960 199 897
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Other comprehensive income
Profit on available-for-sale
financial assets - - (1) - 13
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Share of equity accounted
joint ventures other
comprehensive profit/(loss) 1 (9) - (17) 1 600
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total other comprehensive
income/(expense) 1 (9) (1) (17) 1 613
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total comprehensive income 1 102 779 77 252 (17) 201 510
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Profit attributable to:
Owners of the parent 48 709 84 031 65 566 202 558 168 954
Non-controlling interests 11 539 18 757 11 687 45 402 30 943
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
60 248 102 788 77 253 247 960 199 897
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total comprehensive income
attributable to:
Owners of the parent 48 710 84 022 65 565 202 541 170 567
Non-controlling interests 11 539 18 757 11 687 45 402 30 943
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
60 249 102 779 77 252 247 943 201 510
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Basic earnings per share
($) 0.52 0.89 0.70 2.15 1.81
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Diluted earnings per
share ($) 0.51 0.88 0.69 2.13 1.78
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Average shares in issue
(000) 94 103 94 047 93 737 94 031 93 595
------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
Unaudited Unaudited Audited Unaudited
at at at at
30 Sep 30 Jun 31 Dec 30 Sep
$000 2017 2017 2016 2016
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Assets
Non-current assets
1 569 1 566 1 560 1 567
Property, plant and equipment 573 151 860 319
---------------------------------- ========== ========== ========== ==========
2 602 2 548 2 462 2 407
Cost 873 911 421 481
Accumulated depreciation (1 033
and amortisation 300) (982 760) (901 561) (840 162)
---------------------------------- ========== ========== ========== ==========
Long-term ore stockpiles 161 177 177 477 164 706 151 017
Investments in equity 1 427 1 420 1 414 1 442
accounted joint ventures 147 466 211 420
Other investments in
joint ventures 42 584 40 736 34 423 37 060
========== ========== ========== ==========
Total investments in 1 469 1 461 1 448 1 479
joint ventures 731 202 634 480
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
3 200 3 204 3 174 3 197
Total non-current assets 481 830 200 816
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Current assets
Inventories and ore stockpiles 135 092 124 889 119 027 135 777
Trade and other receivables 224 190 254 134 231 430 223 380
Cash and cash equivalents 621 576 572 838 516 301 361 103
Total current assets 980 858 951 861 866 758 720 260
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
4 181 4 156 4 040 3 918
Total assets 339 691 958 076
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Equity attributable to 3 628 3 573 3 498 3 415
owners of the parent 067 863 699 678
Non-controlling interests 276 567 278 963 253 258 239 324
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
3 904 3 852 3 751 3 655
Total equity 634 826 957 002
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Non-current liabilities
Loans from minority shareholders 2 765 2 765 2 765 2 765
Deferred tax 51 067 49 332 42 386 41 355
Provision for rehabilitation 55 455 55 455 55 455 47 581
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total non-current liabilities 109 287 107 552 100 606 91 701
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Current liabilities
Trade and other payables 119 014 133 959 127 377 136 675
Current income tax payable 48 404 62 354 61 018 34 698
---------- ----------
Total current liabilities 167 418 196 313 188 395 171 373
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
4 181 4 156 4 040 3 918
Total equity and liabilities 339 691 958 076
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
These results are presented as the third quarter ended 30 September 2017. They have been
prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by
the European Union (IFRS) on a basis that is consistent with the accounting policies
applied by the group in its audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended
31 December 2016, and which will form the basis of the 2017 annual report. No new or
amended accounting standards effective for 2017 have had a significant impact on the
group. This announcement has been prepared in compliance with IAS 34 - Interim Financial
Reporting. These results do not include all the notes of the type normally included in
an annual financial report. Accordingly, this condensed report is to be read in conjunction
with the annual report for the year 31 December 2016, and any public announcements made
by the group during the reporting period. While the information included in this announcement
has been prepared in accordance with the recognition and measurement criteria of IFRS,
this announcement does not itself contain sufficient information to comply with IFRS.
The auditors' report for the year ended 31 December 2016 was unqualified and did not
include references to any matters which the auditor drew attention to by way of emphasis
without qualifying their report.
Property, plant and equipment cost increased by $54.0 million for the three months ended 30 September 2017, and was mainly attributable to capital expenditure at the Loulo-Gounkoto complex of $37.3 million. Of this amount, $12.5 million was spent on the development of the Yalea and Gara underground mines, while $22.1 million was spent on ongoing capital and exploration, including work on the Gounkoto super pit. Ongoing capital and exploration expenditure at Tongon was $5.6 million, while $10.8 million was spent at Massawa during the quarter.
The group's capital commitments (including its share of equity accounted joint ventures) at 30 September 2017 amounted to $20.8 million, with the majority relating to Kibali ($12.2 million attributable), the Loulo-Gounkoto complex ($6.2 million) and Tongon ($2.3 million).
The long term ore stockpiles balance of $161.2 million relates to the portion of ore stockpiles at Loulo, Gounkoto and Tongon which are expected to be processed after more than one year, in line with the respective mine plans. The 9% decrease from 30 June 2017 relates to a decrease in the stockpiles at Gounkoto in line with mine plans.
Investments in equity accounted joint ventures reflect the group's share of its equity accounted investments, mainly Kibali as well as Morila, and the group's asset leasing joint ventures. Other investments in joint ventures reflect the group's loans advanced to the group's asset leasing joint ventures.
The balance of $1.5 billion in total investment in joint ventures at 30 September 2017 increased slightly against the balance at 30 June 2017 and the movement in the quarter mainly reflects profits earned ($6.9 million) and loans granted to asset leasing companies ($1.6 million).
Current inventories and ore stockpiles of $135.1 million increased by 8% from the balances at 30 June 2017. This is due to an increase in the gold on hand balance at Tongon ($4.1 million), as well as an increase in the consumable stores balance at Tongon ($4.3 million).
Trade and other receivables at 30 September 2017 decreased by 12% compared to the balances at 30 June 2017. This mainly reflects decreases in the gold debtor balances at Tongon due to the timing of receipts of gold shipments, as well as a drop in the TVA balances at Gounkoto due to offsets made in the quarter.
The total outstanding refundable TVA balances in Mali amount to $110 million (30 June 2017: $112 million) and include 100% of the Loulo and Gounkoto TVA receivables and the attributable portion of the Morila TVA receivable of $5 million. Morila, Loulo and Gounkoto have the legal right, under the terms of their respective mining conventions, to offset other taxes payable to the State of Mali against these refundable TVA balances. Management continues to pursue the cash settlement of these TVA balances.
The group's share of the TVA balance at Kibali amounted to $58.4 million (30 June 2017: $56.0 million). The Morila and Kibali TVA balances are included in the group's investment in joint ventures line.
As disclosed in Q4 2016, the International Center for Settlement of Investment Disputes' (ICSID) arbitration tribunal issued its final and binding award in June 2016, resulting in Loulo being awarded $29.2 million in principle (together with an award for costs and interest) from the State of Mali, for monies found by the tribunal to have been wrongfully taken by the government through TVA credits. This amount was subsequently paid during the third quarter. In addition, the arbitration ruled that TVA withholding tax on foreign suppliers was due to the State of Mali, although amounts were also confirmed to be recoverable as TVA receivables such that the TVA payable is matched by an equal TVA receivable. The arbitration however related to only a portion of the various tax claims which have been received from the State of Mali in respect of its Mali operations. The outstanding claims in respect of its Mali operations totalled $179.4 million at the end of the current quarter.
Having taken professional advice, the group considers material elements of the remaining claims to be without merit or foundation and is strongly defending its position in relation to these claims and following the appropriate legal process. Accordingly, no provision has been made for the material claims and the likelihood of a material outflow of economic benefits in respect of such claims is considered remote under IFRS. Loulo, Gounkoto and Morila each have legally binding establishment conventions which guarantee fiscal stability, govern the taxes applicable to the companies and allow for international arbitration in the event a dispute cannot be resolved in the country. Management continues to engage with the Malian authorities at the highest level to resolve these outstanding fiscal issues. During the third quarter of 2016, the group received payment demands for these disputed amounts, and while it was engaged with the authorities on these demands, its office in Bamako was closed by the authorities but subsequently reopened in October. During October 2016, the group paid tax advances to the State of Mali in the amount of $25 million, to ensure that it could continue to engage with the Malian authorities to resolve the tax disputes, noting that any amounts which were legally not due would be refunded. These amounts are shown in trade and other receivables.
The increase in cash of $48.7 million since 30 June 2017 largely reflects the strong operational cash flows from the Loulo-Gounkoto complex and the Tongon mine ($170.8 million), offset by taxes paid during the quarter ($51.9 million) and the group's continued investment in capital expenditure in its subsidiaries ($54.9 million).
This report has been prepared on a going concern basis as the directors believe that based on the company's current cash resources and facilities, projected operating cash flows and capital expenditure, the company is confident it will be able to meet its obligations at the prevailing gold price for the foreseeable future, a period of not less than 12 months from the date of this report.
Deferred tax of $51.1 million was in line with the balances at June 2017.
Trade and other payables of $119.0 million decreased by 11% from the balance at 30 June 2017, mainly as a result of the reduction in supplier and accrual balances at the Loulo-Gounkoto complex.
Current tax payable of $48.4 million decreased by 22% from the balances at 30 June 2017 due to corporation tax payments made at Loulo, Gounkoto and Tongon during the quarter.
CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT
Unaudited Unaudited Unaudited Unaudited
quarter quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep
$000 2017 2017 2017 2016
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Profit after tax 60 248 102 788 247 960 199 897
Income tax expense 36 537 47 369 118 601 74 914
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Profit before income tax 96 785 150 157 366 561 274 811
Share of losses/(profits)
of equity accounted joint
ventures (6 909) 3 434 1 742 (20 542)
Adjustment for non-cash
items 61 937 54 350 167 991 141 198
Effects of change in operating
working capital items 18 986 (16 296) (29 447) (25 672)
========== ========== ========== ==========
Receivables 24 727 (22 129) (10 365) (40 230)
Inventories and ore stockpiles 6 097 (14 227) (12 536) 11 516
Trade and other payables (11 838) 20 060 (6 546) 3 042
-------------------------------------- ========== ========== ========== ==========
Cash generated from operations 170 799 191 645 506 847 369 795
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Dividends received from
equity accounted joint
ventures - - - 5 000
Income tax paid (51 854) (59 299) (122 445) (58 233)
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net cash generated from
operating activities 118 945 132 346 384 402 316 562
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Additions to property,
plant and equipment (54 889) (44 226) (140 392) (120 518)
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Sale of shares in available-for-sale
financial assets - - - 1 982
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Funds invested in equity
accounted joint ventures (1 627) (17 808) (23 619) -
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Loans repaid by equity
accounted joint ventures - - 746 9 332
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net cash used by investing
activities (56 516) (62 034) (163 265) (109 204)
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Proceeds from issue of
ordinary shares 244 - 277 2 789
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Acquisition of additional
interest in Tongon - - - (340)
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Dividends paid to company's
shareholders - (94 046) (94 046) (52 051)
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Dividends paid to non-controlling
interests (13 935) (3 703) (22 093) (9 985)
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net cash used by financing
activities (13 691) (97 749) (115 862) (59 627)
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net increase/(decrease)
in cash and cash equivalents 48 738 (27 437) 105 275 147 731
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Cash and cash equivalents
at beginning of period 572 838 600 275 516 301 213 372
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Cash and cash equivalents
at end of period 621 576 572 838 621 576 361 103
-------------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
Total
equity
attributable Non-
Number
of Share Share Other Retained to owners controlling Total
ordinary capital premium reserves(1) earnings of parent interests equity
shares $000 $000 $000 $000 $000 $000 $000
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Balance - 31 93 232 1 493 67 1 708 3 273 218 3 492
Dec 2015 - audited 920 4 662 781 005 151 599 706 305
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Fair value movement
on
available-for-sale
financial
assets(1) - - - 1 600 - 1 600 - 1 600
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Share of other
comprehensive
income of joint
ventures(1) - - - 13 - 13 - 13
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Other comprehensive
income - - - 1 613 - 1 613 - 1 613
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Net profit for 168 168 30 199
the period - - - - 954 954 943 897
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Total comprehensive
income for the 168 170 30 201
period - - - 1 613 954 567 943 510
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Share-based 19 19
payments - - - 468 - 19 468 - 468
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Share options
exercised 89 413 4 2 785 - - 2 789 - 2 789
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Reserves transfer
on exercise of
options previously
expensed under
IFRS 2 - - 938 (938) - - - -
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
358 29 (28
Shares vested(2) 329 18 656 328) - 1 346 - 1 346
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Dividend relating 103 (61 (52 (52
to 2015 090 5 9 609 - 705) 091) - 091)
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Non-controlling
interest share
of Gounkoto and (9 (9
Tongon dividend - - - - - - 985) 985)
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Purchase of
additional
share in Tongon - - - - - - (340) (340)
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Balance - 30
Sep 2016 - 93 783 1 536 58 1 815 3 415 239 3 655
unaudited 752 4 689 769 820 400 678 324 002
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Balance - 31 93 803 1 537 63 1 893 3 498 253 3 751
Dec 2016 - audited 752 4 690 326 141 542 699 258 957
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Fair value movement
on
available-for-sale
financial assets(1) - - - - - - - -
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Share of other
comprehensive
income of joint
ventures(1) - - - (17) - (17) (17)
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Other comprehensive
income - - - (17) - (17) - (17)
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Net profit for 202 202 45 247
the period - - - - 558 558 402 960
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Total comprehensive
income for the 202 202 45 247
period - - - (17) 558 541 402 943
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Share-based 18 18
payments - - - 229 - 18 229 - 229
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Share options
exercised 10 306 1 276 - - 277 - 277
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Reserves transfer
on exercise of
options previously
expensed under
IFRS 2 - - 72 (72) - - - -
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
310 26 (24
Shares vested(2) 814 16 408 057) - 2 367 - 2 367
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Dividend relating (94 (94 (94
to 2016 - - - - 046) 046) - 046)
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Non-controlling
interest share
of Gounkoto and (22 (22
Tongon dividend - - - - - - 093) 093)
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
Balance - 30
Sep 2017 - 94 124 1 564 57 2 002 3 628 276 3 904
unaudited 872 4 707 082 224 054 067 567 634
-------------------- ---------- --------- --------- ------------- ---------- -------------- ------------- --------
1 Other reserves include the cumulative charge recognised
under IFRS 2 in respect of share option schemes (net
of amounts transferred to share capital and share premium)
as well as the foreign currency translation reserve
and the movements in available-for-sale financial assets.
2 Restricted shares were issued as remuneration to executive
directors and senior management. Shares were also issued
to executive directors following approval of their
annual bonuses and to non-executive directors as fees.
The transfer between 'other reserves' and 'share premium'
in respect of the shares vested represents the cost
calculated in accordance with IFRS 2.
NON-GAAP MEASURES
Randgold has identified certain measures that it believes will assist understanding of the performance of the business. As the measures are not defined under IFRS they may not be directly comparable with other companies' adjusted measures. The non-GAAP measures are not intended to be a substitute for, or superior to, any IFRS measures of performance but management has included them as these are considered to be important comparables and key measures used within the business for assessing performance.
These measures are explained further below:
Total cash costs and cash cost per ounce are non-GAAP measures. Total cash costs and total cash cost per ounce are calculated using guidance issued by the Gold Institute. The Gold Institute was a non-profit industry association comprising leading gold producers, refiners, bullion suppliers and manufacturers. This institute has now been incorporated into the National Mining Association. The guidance was first issued in 1996 and revised in November 1999. Total cash costs, as defined in the Gold Institute's guidance, include mine production, transport and refinery costs, general and administrative costs, movement in production inventories and ore stockpiles, and royalties. Total cash costs exclude costs associated with capitalised stripping activities. Total cash costs and total cash cost per ounce also include our share of our equity accounted joint ventures' total cash costs and total cash cost per ounce.
Total cash cost per ounce is calculated by dividing total cash costs, as determined using the Gold Institute guidance, by gold ounces sold for the periods presented. Total cash costs and total cash cost per ounce are calculated on a consistent basis for the periods presented. Total cash costs and total cash cost per ounce should not be considered by investors as an alternative to operating profit or net profit attributable to shareholders, as an alternative to other IFRS measures or an indicator of our performance. The data does not have a meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore amounts presented may not be comparable to data presented by gold producers who do not follow the guidance provided by the Gold Institute. In particular depreciation and amortisation would be included in a measure of total costs of producing gold under IFRS, but are not included in total cash costs under the guidance provided by the Gold Institute.
Furthermore, while the Gold Institute has provided a definition for the calculation of total cash costs and total cash cost per ounce, the calculation of these numbers may vary from company to company and may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures of other companies. However, Randgold believes that total cash cost per ounce is a useful indicator to investors and management of a mining company's performance as it provides an indication of a company's profitability and efficiency, the trends in cash costs as the company's operations mature, and a benchmark of performance to allow for comparison against other companies.
Cash operating costs and cash operating cost per ounce are calculated by deducting royalties from total cash costs. Cash operating cost per ounce is calculated by dividing cash operating costs by gold ounces sold for the periods presented.
Gold sales is a non-GAAP measure. It represents the sales of gold at spot and the gains/losses on hedge contracts which have been delivered into at the designated maturity date. It excludes gains/losses on hedge contracts which have been rolled forward to match future sales. This adjustment is considered appropriate because no cash is received/paid in respect of these contracts. Randgold currently does not have any hedge positions. Gold sales include our share of our equity accounted joint ventures' gold sales.
Profit from mining activity is calculated by subtracting total cash costs from gold sales for all periods presented. Profit from mining includes our share of our equity accounted joint ventures.
Gold on hand represents gold in doré at the mines multiplied by the prevailing spot gold price at the end of the period. Gold on hand includes our share of our equity accounted joint ventures' gold on hand.
The group non-GAAP measures presented in the 'Summarised financial information' in the accompanying table include the group's share of each operating mine, together with adjustments to eliminate intergroup transactions.
The accompanying table reconciles gold sales, total cash costs and profit from mining activity as non-GAAP measures, to the information provided in the statement of comprehensive income, determined in accordance with IFRS, for each of the periods set out therein.
NON-GAAP
Unaudited Unaudited Unaudited Unaudited Unaudited
quarter quarter quarter 9 months 9 months
ended ended ended ended ended
30 Sep 30 Jun 30 Sep 30 Sep 30 Sep
$000 2017 2017 2016 2017 2016
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Gold sales per IFRS(1) 298 093 336 794 299 998 951 599 844 390
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Gold sales adjustments
for joint ventures(2) 89 683 85 343 92 778 267 917 248 589
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
1 219 1 092
Gold sales(3) 387 776 422 137 392 776 516 979
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Mine production costs 121 428 117 162 120 995 350 155 354 305
Movement in production
inventory and ore stockpiles(1) (3 305) (14 390) (6 855) (15 593) (113)
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Royalties including
adjustment for joint
ventures 19 747 21 330 19 433 61 849 55 482
Royalty adjustment for
joint ventures(3) (4 279) (3 963) (4 219) (12 708) (11 475)
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Total royalties(1) 15 468 17 367 15 214 49 141 44 007
Other mining and processing
costs(1) 16 540 16 162 14 853 47 453 45 362
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Cash costs adjustments
for joint ventures(2) 51 759 56 140 51 150 170 901 144 576
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total cash costs(3) 201 890 192 441 195 357 602 057 588 137
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Profit from mining activity(3) 185 886 229 696 197 419 617 459 504 842
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Ounces sold 302 620 336 516 294 745 974 739 866 648
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total cash cost per
ounce sold(3) 667 572 663 618 679
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Cash operating cost
per ounce sold(3) 602 508 597 554 615
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Gold on hand at period
end(3) 29 891 19 082 27 808 29 891 27 808
---------------------------------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
1 Figures extracted from IFRS results.
2 The group includes the gold sales and cash costs associated
with the joint venture results in its non-GAAP measures.
The gold sales adjustments reflect our 40% share of
Morila's gold sales and 45% share of Kibali's gold
sales. The cash costs adjustments primarily reflect
our 40% share of Morila's cash costs, 45% of Kibali's
cash costs, as well as our 50.1% share in the asset
leasing companies) cash cost adjustments. Morila, Kibali
and the asset leasing companies are equity accounted
for under IFRS.
3 Refer to explanation of non-GAAP measures provided.
PRINCIPAL RISK FACTORS AND UNCERTAINTIES
The group is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which are the result of not only the business environment in which it operates but also of other factors over which it has little or no control. The board, as part of its role in providing strategic oversight and stewardship of the company, is responsible for the group's systems of risk management and internal control as well as reviewing their operational effectiveness on a regular basis. We are continually evaluating risks to ensure the business achieves its strategic objectives; however the principal risks and uncertainties which could impact the group's long term performance remain those detailed in the group's 2016 annual report and financial statements, a copy of which is available on the group's website www.randgoldresources.com.
The group's strategy takes into account known risks but there may be additional risks unknown to the group and other risks, currently believed to be immaterial, which could develop into material risks. It is recognised that the group is exposed to risks wider than those listed. However, we have disclosed those we believe are likely to have the greatest impact on our business at this moment in time and those that have been the subject of debate at recent board or audit committee meetings. The principal risks and uncertainties may materialise individually, simultaneously or in combination and should be considered in connection with any forward looking statements in this document, the 2016 annual report and the information available on the group's website.
PRINCIPAL RISK FACTORS AND UNCERTAINTIES
EXTERNAL RISKS NATURE AND IMPACT
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Gold price volatility Gold price volatility can result in
material and adverse movement in the
group's operating results, asset values,
revenues and cash flows. Sustained
or significant declines in the gold
price will affect earnings and cash
flow. Group planning, forecasting and
long term financial strategy are subject
to gold price assumptions and therefore
changes to the gold price may have
an adverse effect the group's ability
to fund its capital projects.
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Country risk The group operates in jurisdictions
where changes may occur to the political
environment and governments may seek
a greater share of mineral wealth.
Inadequate monitoring of in-country
political instability and uncertainty
or failure to adapt to changes to terms
applicable to the group's operations
may impact the ability to sustain operations,
prevent the group from making future
investments or result in increased
costs for the group.
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Corporate, social Some of the group's current and potential
and environmental operations are located near communities
responsibility that may regard these operations as
being detrimental to them. Poor management
of stakeholder communication and expectations
with a lack of community development
activities or regard for environmental
responsibility may lead to the inability
to sustain operations in the area and
impact the group's ability to expand
into other regions. Failure to understand
social and environmental contexts can
lead to insufficient planning, resourcing
and costing of projects. Failure to
comply with environmental regulations
could lead to fines and, in the extreme,
loss of operating licence.
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Supply routes Due to the remote location of the operations
the disruption of supply routes may
cause delays with construction and
mine activities. Supply chain failures,
disruptions or significantly increased
costs within the supply chain could
have an adverse effect on the group's
operations.
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
FINANCIAL RISKS NATURE AND IMPACT
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Operating and capital Operating cost and capital cost control
cost control are a key factor in the group's profitability.
Failure to control operating cost of
production or operational objectives
will result in reduced margins and
profitability. Failure or inability
to monitor capital expenditure and
progress of capital projects may result
in financial losses, overspend on projects
and cause returns to be eroded. General
cost inflation in the mining sector
could affect the operations and projects
resulting in significant pressure on
operating and capital costs.
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
In-country tax The group operates in jurisdictions
regimes which may change tax or fiscal regimes
and regulations and, failure to adapt
to such issues may result in fines
and financial losses. Inability to
enforce legislation over tax or incorrectly
applied legislation may result in lengthy
arbitration, delays in recovering debts
and loss of profits.
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
OPERATIONAL RISKS NATURE AND IMPACT
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Production, reserves The group's mining operations may yield
and resources less gold under actual production conditions
than indicated by its gold reserve
figures, which are estimates based
on a number of assumptions, including
mining and recovery factors, production
costs and gold price. In such instances
the group's profitability may be affected
should actual production be lower than
indicated reserves. Should the prevailing
gold price not support or sustain the
valuation the carrying value of assets
may be impaired.
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Environmental, The mining sector is subject extensive
health, safety health, safety and environmental laws,
and security incident regulations and standards alongside
stakeholder expectations. Failure to
maintain environmental, health and
safety standards' may result in significant
environmental or safety incidents or
deterioration in safety performance
standards leading to loss of life or
significant loss of time and disruption
or damage to operations. Evolving regulation
and standards could result in increased
costs, litigation or in extreme cases
may threaten the viability of an operation.
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Risks associated The group has a number of underground
with underground projects which are subject to the extensive
mining and geotechnical risks associated with underground mining.
failure Failure to monitor or mitigate such
risks may affect the profitability
of the group and the operational performance.
Failure to consider geotechnical failure
in planning and then monitor the impact
during operations may impact the geotechnical
stability of pits and underground mining
operations. Extreme weather conditions
such as high rainfall may also impact
the geotechnical stability of the pits
and therefore could impact mining operations.
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
STRATEGIC RISKS NATURE AND IMPACT
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
Lack of identification The replacement of reserves and resources
of new exploration is key to the long term delivery of
targets and exploration the group's exploration led growth
failure strategy and therefore the lack of
identification of new exploration targets
may lead to a loss of revenue and an
inability to grow and meet strategic
objectives. Exploration and development
are costly activities with no guarantee
of success, but are necessary for future
growth of the group.
------------------------- ------------------------------------------------
GENERAL
During the quarter, Randgold performed well across all its operations and projects, in line with its mine plans and previous guidance. At Loulo-Gounkoto, the complex is ahead of guidance for the year while at Kibali and Tongon, management are still targeting to meet the annual production objectives set out at the beginning of the year. As highlighted earlier in this report, the commissioning and automation of Kibali's underground ore handling and shaft system is currently being completed, and remains on a tight schedule for completion in Q4, which is the key for Kibali to meet its 610 000oz guidance for the year. Morila has started mining the Domba satellite pit, resulting in a small increase to its guidance for the year. Consequently, the group is forecasting production towards the top end of its guidance range and cash costs within the middle of the guidance range declared at the beginning of the year. Capital expenditure for the year is expected to be marginally higher than the original guidance outlined at the beginning of the year, taking into account some additional capitalised stripping and capital associated with mining the Domba satellite pit that was previously not in the mine plan.
As is customary, Randgold will be finalising its 2018 budget during the fourth quarter and guidance for 2018 will be given with the year end results. The group remains focused on its strategy to deliver value for all its stakeholders through the discovery and development of world-class orebodies and has a pipeline of high quality projects and exploration targets. Notwithstanding this core strategy, management routinely reviews both corporate and asset merger and acquisition opportunities.
The directors confirm to the best of their knowledge that:
a) These third quarter results have been prepared in accordance
with IAS 34 as adopted by the European Union; and
b) The interim management report includes a fair review
of the information required by the FCA's Disclosure
and Transparency Rules (4.2.7R and 4.2.8R).
By order of the board
D M Bristow G P Shuttleworth
Chief Executive Financial
Director
2 November 2017
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RANDGOLD RESOURCES NEWS UPDATES
INVESTING IN EDUCATION: GOOD FOR THE COMPANY, GOOD FOR THE COUNTRY
Randgold's policy of employing host country nationals and upskilling them to world-class operational and managerial standards has equipped the company with a workforce and management team generally acknowledged as ranking among the finest in the global mining industry.
Chief executive Mark Bristow says because of mining's long term nature, investing in the development of a company's human capital is as important as investing in the discovery and development of mineral resources.
"When we were building Loulo, for example, we were also training its prospective employees. Today, the Loulo-Gounkoto complex - our flagship operation and one of the largest of its kind in the world - is operated and managed entirely, and very successfully, by Malian citizens," he says.
Training at all Randgold's mines is a continuous process, involving all employees in programmes ranging from basic to advanced technical skills. In addition to this extensive on-the-job training, high-potential employees are given bursaries for further education at prestigious international institutions. Currently, for example, Randgold bursars are studying at the Colorado School of Mines in the USA, Mines Paris-Tech in France and the University of Pretoria in South Africa.
"Our mines are managed by teams with very different professional skills sets, but the one thing they must have in common is an understanding of business and finance. They may be mining engineers, metallurgists or geologists, but we believe they should also have a high degree of commercial acumen," Bristow says.
Consequently, senior staff are enrolled in executive development programmes at the London Business School and the Graduate School of Business at the University of Cape Town. In addition, a development programme tailored specifically for Randgold is regularly presented at its mines.
Randgold's investment in education extends beyond its own mines, in line with its philosophy that their activities should benefit their communities.
More than 25 000 children receive their primary and secondary education at 50 schools the company has built around its operations, and it provides promising students with bursaries for further studies. It has trained some 350 teachers for these schools. In addition, adults in the host communities are offered literacy, artisanal and basic business training.
Given the pivotal part agriculture plays in these communities, there is a strong focus on training in this field. As part of these programmes, Randgold has established an agricultural college at Loulo-Gounkoto, where a three-year course equips up to 100 students at a time to become successful commercial farmers.
"One of the major contributions the mining industry can make to its host countries' future is the expansion of their skills base through a meaningful investment in training and education," says Bristow.
RANDGOLD'S LATEST TECHNOLOGY ADVANCE MAKES KIBALI AFRICA'S MOST MECHANISED MINE
Every time that Randgold has developed a new mine, it has been presented with a new technical challenge and each time this has been overcome through the innovative application of technology, with Kibali being the most recent example.
Breaking away from the traditional African underground mining model, the large-tonnage Kibali mine employs technology to achieve a high level of productivity through automation and mechanisation, with a smaller but skilled workforce.
Its integrated automated ore handling and shaft system is the first of its kind in Africa, with features such as multiple driverless loaders that load and haul on a single haulage drive, and a smooth, high-strength roller-compacted concrete haulage surface, which improves haulage speed with minimal spillage. On surface, drones are used for pit and stockpile measurements.
"In the absence of existing skills we leverage off the large and highly intelligent local population by investing in their training. It's a long-term approach but it delivers a workforce more than capable of rising to the challenge of new technologies. That means we can move ahead uninhibited by old systems and mindsets," explains GM evaluation Rod Quick.
Technology, in the form of psychometric testing and simulators, is even used to speed up training outcomes. Further innovations, such as fully electric underground trucks and secondary ventilation on demand, are currently on the drawing board.
"Our approach to technology is based on constantly updated databases and integrated platforms which cover every aspect of the business, from the selection of exploration targets through feasibility, optimisation studies and mine planning to the monitoring of operational efficiency. Mine managements have real-time access to this information and the control this gives us provides Randgold with a major competitive advantage," says Quick.
KIBALI ON TRACK AS IT PREPARES FOR COMPLETION OF UNDERGROUND MINE
The Kibali gold mine remains on track to achieve its production target of 610 000 ounces this year as its underground operations and the integration and automation of the vertical shaft enters the final commissioning and automation stage, says Randgold CEO Mark Bristow.
He told local media in Kinshasa that the mine was anticipating a significant increase in production once the final shaft commissioning had been completed. The project remained on a tight schedule.
Bristow said in spite of the high level of activity at the mine, there had been a significant improvement in the safety statistics, with its total injury frequency rate continuing to decrease and lost time injury frequency rate down to 0.31 per million hours worked in the September quarter.
Following the anticipated completion of the underground mine in the fourth quarter, the only major capital project still in the works would be Kibali's third new hydropower station, currently being constructed by an all-Congolese contracting team. He said the availability of self-generated hydropower and the mine's high degree of mechanisation and automation were important factors in Kibali's ability to sustain its profitability throughout the ups and downs of the gold price cycle.
To date, over $2 billion has been spent on acquiring and developing Kibali, of which the majority had been paid out in the form of taxes, permits, infrastructure and payments to local contractors and suppliers.
"With capital expenditure tapering off, Kibali should now be preparing to pay back the loans taken to fund its development. We are concerned, however, that its ability to do so will be impeded by the increasing amount of debt - currently standing at over $200 million - owed to the mine by the government. TVA refunds, excess taxes and royalties in violation of the country's mining code, make up the bulk of this amount," said Bristow.
Another troubling development was the recent re-introduction to parliament by the Ministry of Mines of a proposed new mining code which is exactly the same as the one the government withdrew in 2015 after it was comprehensively demonstrated that it would seriously damage or even destroy the Congolese mining industry.
"Randgold has proven and continues to prove that it is committed to the DRC and to the development of a gold mining industry capable of making a substantial and lasting contribution to the country's economy. Despite all the challenges, including the volatile political climate and a deteriorating economy, we continue to invest here. Our exploration teams are searching for our next big discovery in the greenstone belt of the north-eastern DRC. In line with our local supply strategy, Kibali spent approximately $40 million with Congolese contractors in the past three months alone. We are developing substantial agribusiness and other community projects. And perhaps most important, we invest in the training and empowering of Congolese nationals, who already make up most of the Kibali management team, thus making a contribution of incalculable value to the expansion of the country's skills base," he said.
"The DRC has all the materials for building a sustainable mining industry but that will require a fully committed partnership between the government on the one hand and the mining companies on the other. Despite recent indications to the contrary, we remain confident that such a partnership is within reach, and that the government will see the critical importance of maintaining a stable, investor-friendly fiscal and regulatory environment for the country's mining sector. In this regard, we would welcome the opportunity to work with the government in jointly selecting an independent group of experts to benchmark the DRC mining code and its fiscal framework and to model the impact of the new proposed code, which we believe will be damaging to the development of the industry."
CONTRACTORS ENROLLED IN SAFETY DRIVE
In line with its policy of using in-country service providers, Randgold has mentored a number of local contractors capable of meeting international operating standards. Injuries and fatalities suffered by contractors at Kibali and Tongon during the second quarter of the year have, however, highlighted the need to intensify their focus on health and safety issues.
"The welfare of our workers is a critical concern for Randgold and we've moved to ensure that the safety of the people employed by our contractors receives the same care and attention," says the group's health and safety officer, Dr Haladou Manirou.
"We've therefore put all our contractors through a training programme designed to ensure that they fully understand Randgold's health and safety protocols and will apply them in their own businesses. Internally, we've engaged all managers and supervisors groupwide in consultative workshops aimed at the complete integration of the health and safety function into the production process. Throughout the group, safety training starts with new-employee induction and continues on a regular basis afterwards."
While there was no room for complacency on this front, he said, it was worth noting that Randgold had a very creditable overall safety record which was continuing to improve, with its total injury frequency rate down 32% year on year at the end of September, when it stood at an all-time low 4.08 per million hours worked.
RANDGOLD RANKS HIGH IN GOOD GOVERNANCE INDEX
Randgold has been placed 12th in the Institute of Directors' Good Governance Index (GGI) of FTSE 100 companies. The GGI is calculated by looking at how the largest UK-listed companies score across 47 governance indicators grouped into five broad categories of corporate governance: board effectiveness; audit and risk/external accountability; remuneration and reward; shareholder relations; and stakeholder relations. The Institute says the Index does not only take into account the interests of shareholders but also considers how governance is working for other key stakeholders.
Chairman of the Randgold board and of the board's governance committee Christopher Coleman welcomed the recognition saying: "The board believes that a strong system of governance throughout the company is essential and that this aids effective decision making and supports the achievement of the company's strategic objectives for the benefit of shareholders and stakeholders alike."
REGIONAL BRIEFINGS FOR LOCAL MEDIA AND STAKEHOLDERS
As part of Randgold's comprehensive and transparent stakeholder communications programme, CEO Mark Bristow and members of the executive team hold in-depth media and community briefings in each of the company's host countries each quarter. This quarter, as well as a briefing in Kinshasa, local media were taken on facility visits to the Tongon and Loulo gold mines.
IVORIAN GOVERNMENT URGED TO 'THINK BIG' ABOUT MINING'S ROLE IN ECONOMY
Côte d'Ivoire has all the ingredients for the development of a world-class mining industry, capable of making an enormous contribution to the country's economy, but to achieve this, government and the mining sector need to work together in a committed, long term partnership, says Randgold's chief executive Mark Bristow.
Speaking to local media during a visit to Randgold's Tongon mine, Bristow said Côte d'Ivoire was highly prospective and had one of Africa's most investor-friendly mining codes as well as a relatively modern infrastructure. Mining was already making a big contribution to the country's economy - to date, Tongon alone has paid almost $1 billion to the State and to local suppliers and contractors - but for its full value-creating potential to be realised it should be integrated into the government's overall economic and infrastructural planning.
"Côte d'Ivoire needs more Tongons and that means more investment by the mining sector as well as by the government. It's particularly important to encourage exploration, and to maintain a fiscal and operational environment capable of attracting international capital providers and mine developers. The benefits to the country of a growing, sustainably profitable mining industry are huge, and the government needs to think big about cultivating such an important asset," Bristow said.
"Issues that should be addressed immediately are the increasingly serious problem of illegal gold mining, the granting of permits to companies that lack exploration capacity and expertise and a history of delivering world class mines, and the acceleration of the permitting process," he said.
Turning to Tongon's performance, Bristow said the mine was on track to achieve its 2017 production target of 285 000 ounces of gold at a total cash cost of less than $700 per ounce. Power supply from the national grid remained challenging with the gap between the reliability of the service and its cost growing.
He also noted that Tongon had funded the expansion of the power grid to the amount of $28 million but had as yet received no indication of when and how the State-owned electricity company would reimburse Tongon for its investment.
"Any partnership involves some negotiations and these have always been managed satisfactorily in the course of Randgold's long and mutually productive relationship with Côte d'Ivoire. That's why we have already invested approximately $100 million in exploration since 1995 and are planning to continue to invest in this country. Our exploration programmes are designed not only to lengthen Tongon's life but also to find new world-class mines in our extensive and exciting portfolio of prospects elsewhere in Côte d'Ivoire. For their part, the government should encourage investment by facilitating access to ground for companies that have both the financial strength and technical expertise to expand the industry," he said.
"We continue to invest in our people and our community at Tongon, building a legacy of skills and economic opportunities that will long outlive the mine. Thanks to our policy of employing and upskilling our host country nationals, Tongon is almost entirely operated and managed by Ivorians. In the local community, our education programmes and water supply projects are making a significant contribution to the quality of life and future prospects of the people of Côte d'Ivoire."
PROGRESS WITH NEW POTABLE WATER SYSTEM FOR TONGON VILLAGE
In a colourful ceremony with dancing and singing, chief executive Mark Bristow laid the first stone for the Tongon village's new potable water supply system. Since the advent of the mine, the village's population has grown from barely 250 to more than 4 000, requiring a greater quantity of water and more distribution points. In a public-private partnership, Tongon mine will fund borehole drilling, the construction of a water tower and the provision of related equipment, while the government will be responsible for the improvement and extension of the water pipeline.
RANDGOLD ADVANCES ON ALL FRONTS IN MALI
Randgold Resources' operations in Mali are performing robustly and look set to exceed their production targets for 2017, says chief executive Mark Bristow.
Speaking during a visit to the Loulo mine for local media, Bristow said the sustained profitability of Morila and the Loulo-Gounkoto complex was continuing to create value for all the company's stakeholders as well as supporting its commitment to building a lasting legacy for the mines' communities in the form of educational, agricultural and infrastructural development.
Bristow noted that since 2010, the Randgold mines had accounted for between 6% and 9% of Mali's annual GDP. Since they were commissioned, their direct contribution to the country's economy, in the form of taxes, salaries and payments to local suppliers had amounted to $2 billion for Morila, $2.9 billion for Loulo and $0.7 billion for Gounkoto.
"Funded by international investors, developed and operated by an Africa-focused mining company, and managed entirely by Malian nationals, they are a shining example of how this continent's mineral resources can be converted into world-class mines, benefiting all stakeholders, not least the host country and its people," he said.
Bristow said Randgold was continuing to invest in Mali through exploration, the upskilling of people and community upliftment programmes.
"Morila, which was the first mine Randgold built on an orebody it had discovered, was successfully converted into a tailings retreatment operation and has now also started mining Domba, the first of three satellite pits close to its plant. These are expected to extend its life to 2020, bolstering its continued profitability as well as its capacity to fund its own eventual closure," he said.
"At Gounkoto, work has started on the pushback for the super pit, which has been approved by the Minister of Mines. Both at Gounkoto and at Loulo, brownfields exploration should again enable the complex to replace all the reserves it consumed in what is expected to be a record production year. Loulo-Gounkoto still has at least another 10 years of life ahead of it. Exploration is also continuing to the north and south of the key orebodies, with promising results."
Bristow said while Mali was in many ways a model of its kind for Africa's other mining countries, there was some concern that continued upward revisions to its mining code was diminishing its ability, relative to its peers, to attract investment. He also urged that any further changes should involve all stakeholders and in particular the mining industry which has made and committed more investment than any other sector of the economy. "We, as partners, need to reach a common understanding of the mining investment conventions when it comes to tax and other revenue collection," he said
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CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this news release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the US Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the future price of gold, the estimation of mineral reserves and resources, the realisation of mineral reserve estimates, the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production, reserve determination and reserve conversion rates. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as 'will', 'plans', 'expects' or 'does not expect', 'is expected', 'budget', 'scheduled', 'estimates', 'forecasts', 'intends', 'anticipates' or 'does not anticipate', or 'believes', or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results 'may', 'could', 'would', 'might' or 'will be taken', 'occur' or 'be achieved'. Assumptions upon which such forward-looking statements are based are in turn based on factors and events that are not within the control of Randgold Resources Limited ('Randgold') and there is no assurance they will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Randgold to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: risks related to mining operations, including political risks and instability and risks related to international operations, actual results of current exploration activities, conclusions of economic evaluations, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, as well as those factors discussed in Randgold's filings with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (the 'SEC'). Although Randgold has attempted to identify important factors that
could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Randgold does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. CAUTIONARY NOTE TO US INVESTORS: The SEC permits companies, in their filings with the SEC, to disclose only proven and probable ore reserves. We use certain terms in this report, such as 'resources', that the SEC does not recognise and strictly prohibits us from including in our filings with the SEC. Investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any parts of our resources will ever be converted into reserves which qualify as 'proven and probable reserves' for the purposes of the SEC's Industry Guide number 7.
This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
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November 02, 2017 03:00 ET (07:00 GMT)
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