West African Resources Projects Record Gold Output as Kiaka Mine Hits Full Production in Burkina Faso

West African Resources targets up to 490,000 ounces of gold in 2026 as the Kiaka mine in Burkina Faso reaches full production capacity.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 3, 2026, 1:45 PM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Business Insider Africa

The Emergence of a Regional Mining Powerhouse

The 2026 fiscal year is set to become a transformative period for West African Resources as it scales its operations within Burkina Faso to unprecedented levels. Following a strategic reassessment of its assets, the company has forecasted an annual gold production range that represents a significant leap from previous cycles. This surge is primarily attributed to the seamless integration of the Kiaka mine into the group’s active portfolio, marking the first twelve-month period where the site will contribute at full capacity. The transition from development to steady-state production at Kiaka aligns with the company’s broader objective of establishing itself as a dominant player in the West African mining sector.

Strategic Contributions from Key Assets

The anticipated production record relies on a dual-asset strategy involving the Kiaka and Sanbrado mines. According to Executive Chairman Richard Hyde, the Kiaka project alone is expected to generate between 240,000 and 280,000 ounces, assuming its role as the primary driver of corporate growth. Simultaneously, the founding Sanbrado mine continues to provide a stable foundation, with an estimated output of 190,000 to 210,000 ounces for the year. By balancing a high-growth new asset with a proven producer, the company aims to mitigate operational risks while maximizing the total yield from its Burkinabe concessions.

Financial Resilience Amid Market Volatility

Maintaining robust margins remains a core focus for the miner as global gold prices continue to experience fluctuations. West African Resources has set an aggressive target for its all-in sustaining cost (AISC), aiming to keep expenditures below $1,900 per ounce throughout 2026. This cost-management strategy is designed to ensure profitability even during periods of market uncertainty, providing a buffer against inflationary pressures in the supply chain. The company’s ability to keep the Kiaka project ahead of schedule and under budget during its initial phases has bolstered investor confidence in its fiscal discipline and operational efficiency.