Drilling Begins at Dokwe: What Could Delay Ariana’s 2026 Resource Upgrade?
Ariana Resources has launched the first phase of an extensive drilling programme at its Dokwe Gold Project in Zimbabwe, aiming to expand its 1.1 million ounce gold resource. Initial assay results are expected before year-end, setting the stage for a potential resource upgrade in 2026.
- Commencement of ~11,000m reverse circulation drilling programme
- Initial 26-hole phase targets Dokwe North and Central extensions
- Torque Africa appointed as drilling contractor
- Significant gold-in-soil anomaly prioritized for drilling
- JORC Resource upgrade targeted for 2026
Drilling Programme Launch
Ariana Resources plc has announced the mobilisation of a reverse circulation (RC) drilling rig to its 100% owned Dokwe Gold Project in Zimbabwe, marking the start of an ambitious exploration campaign. The first phase involves approximately 4,000 metres of drilling across 26 holes, focusing on extensions of the Dokwe North and Central deposits, as well as a newly identified gold-in-soil anomaly to the northeast of Dokwe North.
Strategic Partnership with Torque Africa
The company has engaged Torque Africa, specialists in RC drilling services, to execute this initial phase. Torque’s Thor 5000 rig, capable of drilling beyond 300 metres, will enable Ariana to test multiple high-priority targets identified through recent geological modelling and data reviews. Site preparations, including access roads and drill pads, have already been completed, underscoring the project’s readiness.
Resource Context and Future Outlook
The Dokwe Gold Project currently hosts a combined resource of approximately 1.1 million ounces of gold at an average grade of 1.52 grams per tonne, as reported under the JORC Code. This drilling programme is designed to build on that foundation, with the company aiming to either extend the RC drilling or transition to diamond drilling based on initial results. A resource upgrade aligned with JORC standards is targeted for 2026, which could enhance the project’s valuation and development prospects.
Market and Operational Implications
Following its recent successful listing on the ASX, Ariana Resources is signalling its commitment to advancing Dokwe through systematic exploration. The drilling results, expected before the end of 2025, will be closely watched by investors and analysts as indicators of the project’s potential to expand mineralisation and support future production plans. The company has confirmed that there are no material changes to previously reported mineral resource estimates or production targets, maintaining transparency and regulatory compliance.
Looking Ahead
As the drilling programme progresses, Ariana Resources will continue to update the market, providing insights into assay results and subsequent exploration phases. The outcome of this campaign could be pivotal in shaping the next stage of development at Dokwe, reinforcing the company’s position in the African gold exploration landscape.
Bottom Line?
With drilling underway and results imminent, Ariana Resources is poised to redefine Dokwe’s gold potential in 2026.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the initial drilling confirm extensions to the existing gold deposits at Dokwe North and Central?
- How might the significant gold-in-soil anomaly impact the overall resource estimate if confirmed?
- What are the company’s plans if assay results exceed or fall short of expectations?
