Caledonia Mining upholds 2026 guidance amid strong gold output
Caledonia Mining Corporation PLC has upheld its 2026 gold production forecast following a strong quarterly performance at Zimbabwe’s Blanket Mine, where output rose by 18% to 17,360 ounces.
The increase from 14,767 ounces in the first quarter reflects improved access to higher-grade mining areas. Average ore grades delivered to the processing plant climbed to 2.88 grams per tonne during the quarter and reached 3.05g/t in July so far.
Caledonia reiterated its full-year production guidance of 72,000 to 76,500 ounces, with output expected to be weighted towards the second half of the year. The second-quarter production was below last year’s record quarter, which benefited from exceptional ore grades.
Chief Executive Mark Learmonth commented, “Our efforts to restore access to higher-grade ore are gaining momentum, with grades now tracking at around 3g/t.” He added that further growth in production is anticipated thanks to the introduction of a seven-day working week, which is increasing ore processing capacity by approximately 200 tonnes per day.
Additionally, an upgrade to the elution plant is planned to begin processing stockpiled carbon from September, which is expected to further enhance output.
This steady improvement in production and ore quality underscores Caledonia’s commitment to meeting its targets and optimizing operations at Blanket Mine in Zimbabwe.
