Aya Gold & Silver Files Updated Technical Report for the Zgounder Silver Mine

Core Viewpoint - Aya Gold & Silver Inc. has filed an updated NI 43-101 Technical Report for the Zgounder Deposit, which includes revised Proven & Probable Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resource Estimates, along with an updated Life of Mine plan extending to 2036 [1][2]. Updated Life of Mine Plan - The updated mine plan supports annual silver production of approximately 6 million ounces over the next 11 years, totaling around 66 million ounces over the Life of Mine [4][6]. - Average operating costs are projected at a cash cost of $16.26 per ounce and $69.47 per tonne of ore processed [6][27]. - Sustaining capital expenditures are estimated at $71 million over the Life of Mine [6][27]. - The mine life has been extended to 2036 based on a capital-efficient open-pit strategy [6][27]. Net Reserve and Resource Growth - Proven & Probable Reserves are now estimated at 73 million ounces of silver at a grade of 145 g/t, reflecting a 4% increase from the previous estimate [6][19]. - The reserve replacement ratio stands at 120%, with additions of 13 million ounces exceeding the 11 million ounces mined since the last estimate [6][19]. - Measured & Indicated Resources total 100 million ounces of silver at 165 g/t, marking a 5% increase from the prior estimate [6][19]. Geological Model and Drilling - The updated geological model incorporates approximately 275,000 meters of drilling since 2021, enhancing confidence in the resource model and mine plan [5][20]. - The extensive drilling and improved geological understanding have led to a more reliable resource model [5][20]. Production and Cost Summary - The Life of Mine plan includes a mix of open-pit and underground mining, with average production projected at approximately 6.2 million ounces from 2026 through 2036 [23][24]. - Total operating costs over the Life of Mine are estimated at $1,067.5 million, with cash costs decreasing over time [24][27]. Mining Methods and Development - A combination of cut-and-fill and longhole stope mining methods will be employed, with a gradual shift towards longhole mining [27]. - Open-pit mining is expected to continue until 2036, with mining rates averaging 45,000 tonnes per day until 2030 [27].