Aya Gold & Silver Inc. (TSX: AYA; OTCQX: AYASF) has announced a major milestone with the first silver pour from its newly expanded Zgounder Mine in Morocco, completed on November 27, 2024. This achievement marks the culmination of a large-scale expansion project designed to transform Zgounder into a high-capacity, world-class silver operation. The milestone not only demonstrates the successful commissioning of the mine’s upgraded processing circuit but also sets the stage for Aya to emerge as a leading pure-play silver producer in the global market.
The expansion includes the addition of a new mill, which processed ore through the entire circuit for the first time during the silver pour. Hot commissioning has been finalized, with the gravity circuit currently undergoing final commissioning. Early operational data is promising, with recoveries exceeding 80% and expected to improve further as the circuit stabilizes and higher-grade ore is introduced into the mill. The mill is being fed with marginal ore to limit silver losses during this ramp-up phase. Aya reported that all systems and equipment are operating as planned.
The expanded facility hit its nameplate capacity of 2,000 tonnes per day on November 29, just weeks after the first ore was processed through the mill. Recovery rates, throughput, and equipment availability are all trending upward, bolstering the company’s confidence in reaching commercial production by year-end. Aya President and CEO Benoit La Salle praised the achievement, crediting the team’s efficiency and commitment. “This milestone marks our transition into a tier-one, pure-play silver producer,” said La Salle. “We are encouraged by the early performance indicators and look forward to ramping up operations further in the coming year.” 
The Zgounder expansion aligns with Aya’s broader growth strategy, emphasizing operational efficiency, profitability, and sustainability. The mine, located along Morocco’s South-Atlas Fault, is known for its high-grade deposits and has undergone significant investment to position it as a leading silver operation. Beyond Zgounder, Aya is advancing its Tijirit Gold Project in Mauritania, which will be developed under its recently launched spinout company, Mx2 Mining.
As the only TSX-listed pure-play silver miner, Aya continues to focus on delivering value to shareholders by embedding sustainability and responsible governance into its operations. With its expanded capacity, Zgounder is set to elevate Aya’s production profile while cementing its reputation as a key contributor to the global silver supply chain.
