Strong Silver Production At The Zgounder Mine

MONTREAL - Aya Gold & Silver Inc. reported preliminary production of 389,132 ounces (oz) at an average head grade of 295 grams per tonne (g/t) silver in the quarter at the Zgounder Silver Mine in the Kingdom of Morocco. Key Highlights: Produced 389,132 oz of silver ("Ag") in Q1 2021 compared to 67,005 oz Ag in Q1 2020; and Improved silver recoveries to 81.9% and 83.7% at the flotation and cyanidation plants, respectively.

"For a second consecutive quarter, Zgounder production clearly demonstrated the benefits of last year's operational improvements, confirming their sustainability despite the ongoing pandemic and its related issues. We continue to improve our operations with the aim of achieving additional efficiencies and ultimately our 2021 production guidance. Our success thus far is a testament to the resilience of our on-site team and contractors who are working tirelessly to deliver these results," said Benoit La Salle, President & CEO.

Silver recovery for the flotation plant improved to 81.9% in Q1 2021 from 80.5% in Q4 2020. The cyanidation plant also saw silver recovery improve to 83.7% in Q1 2021 compared to 79.5% in Q4 2020.

In the quarter, plant availabilities reached 82% and 85.2% for the flotation and cyanidation plants, respectively. Availability was primarily impacted by four days of planned shutdown, a one-week power outage due to a severe snowstorm and unplanned stoppages due to maintenance-related events.