Johannesburg – Harmony Gold Mining Company reported that the integration of the Mponeng and Mine Waste Solutions assets, coupled with the effective measures adopted in preventing, mitigating the impact of Covid-19 and disciplined mining had boosted output during the half-year ended December 2020.
Harmony recorded an 8% year-on-year increase in output to 745 347 ounces (23 183 kg) during the six months ended December thanks to a 5% jump in underground grade recoveries to 5.58g per ton from 5.29g per ton.
Group output for the quarter ended December, 31, 2020 surged by 38% to 431 622 ounces (13,425kg) compared to 313 725 ounces (9,758kg) in the September 2020 quarter. Underground grade recoveries during the quarter increased by 9% to 5.80g per ton from 5.31g per ton during the September 2020 quarter.
Harmony said that the improved output during the period would make it possible to meet its annual output targets of between 1.26 million ounces and 1.3million ounces.
“Since assuming full ownership of Mponeng mine, Mine Waste Solutions and related assets on October 1, 2020, these acquired assets have contributed 103 525 ounces (3 220kg),” the group said.
The group added that this was excluding these acquired assets it had met its half-year production guidance.
Chief executive Peter Steenkamp said in navigating the return-to-work challenges, top of mind was the health, safety and overall well-being of employees.
“I wish to commend our health and operational teams for the remarkable job done in ensuring a safe return to work. The integration of Mponeng and Mine Waste Solutions went according to plan and contributed both to the quality of the ounces produced and overall production,” Steenkamp said.
