Oriole Resources (LSE:ORR) has reported a maiden JORC-compliant Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate of 32.2 million tonnes at its Wapouzé limestone project in Cameroon.
The estimate covers marble grading an average 50.33% calcium oxide (CaO) across six domains and four open-pit shells. According to the company, the identified resource could support a multi-year quarry operation, with Pit 1 estimated to provide approximately 27.5 years of material based on a notional production rate of 400,000 tonnes per year.
Oriole is assessing Wapouzé primarily as a potential source of limestone for cement production in Cameroon and neighbouring Chad. The company has also identified potential applications for the material in gold ore processing, chemical-grade calcium carbonate and mineral filler markets.
The company is progressing a local Environmental and Social Impact Assessment as part of preparations for an exploitation licence application, which it plans to submit during the fourth quarter of 2026.
Oriole also plans to undertake a preliminary economic assessment of Wapouzé. The company is targeting a royalty-based income model for the project, with potential proceeds intended to contribute towards funding its gold exploration activities.
Wapouzé Project Background
Oriole Resources is an AIM-quoted exploration and development company focused on Central and West Africa, with its principal gold exploration activities located in Cameroon.
The company owns an 85% interest in the Wapouzé limestone project in north-eastern Cameroon. Wapouzé was initially explored as a gold project before the commodity designation was changed to marble in 2022 following the identification of extensive carbonate units.
Subsequent surface exploration and a maiden diamond drilling programme identified widths of marble that the company is evaluating for cement production and other industrial applications.
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