Zaida Lead Project

The Zaida Lead Project, held by SOCUMA SARL, a subsidiary of Artemis MM Resources London Ltd, is a strategic brownfield redevelopment located within the former SODIM mining domain near Midelt, in Morocco’s High Moulouya Basin. The project lies in a region long recognized for its high-grade lead mineralization and strong mining legacy, historically explored and operated by BRPM (now ONHYM) and SODIM from the late 1950s through the 1980s.

Geological Context

The Zaida deposit is hosted in Triassic detrital formations, primarily composed of arkosic sandstones and conglomerates, which have been mineralized by galena (PbS) and cerussite (PbCO₃). These sedimentary formations are part of the extensive Moulouya Basin metallogenic belt, bounded by the High and Middle Atlas ranges.

The geological characteristics correspond to the “red-bed” or sandstone-type lead deposit model, comparable to internationally known systems in the United States and Australia. Historical exploration programs have delineated laterally continuous mineralized horizons extending over several kilometers, confirming the deposit’s large-scale potential and consistency of lead mineralization across multiple lenses.

Resource and Exploration Potential

Comprehensive exploration campaigns led by SODIM and BRPM included over 200,000 meters of drilling, trenching, and underground works, defining significant measured and indicated reserves across several zones. The resource remains open both along strike and at depth, offering strong potential for further extensions.

SOCUMA SARL, as the current license holder, is updating and validating these historical data through detailed geological re-mapping, geophysical interpretation, and surface sampling. The new exploration model also considers the presence of deeper polymetallic mineralization, potentially containing zinc and silver, consistent with SEDEX-type systems found elsewhere in the region.

Mining and Processing

Zaida was historically operated as an open-pit mine, with favorable stripping ratios and soft, easily processed ore. The material lends itself to conventional extraction methods and beneficiation through flotation. The site still hosts the former SODIM processing plant, which historically produced a lead concentrate grading between 68% and 70% Pb with silver by-product.

SOCUMA’s redevelopment plan includes refurbishing and modernizing the existing processing facilities to meet current technical and environmental standards. Planned upgrades include optimized crushing, flotation, and filtration circuits designed to improve metallurgical recovery and reduce environmental impact.

Infrastructure and Accessibility

The project benefits from excellent logistical and industrial infrastructure. It is connected by the national road N°13, providing direct year-round access. The nearby Moulouya River offers a sustainable water source, and the site is connected to Morocco’s national electric power grid. Its proximity to key industrial centers such as Meknès and export ports like Casablanca and Nador ensures cost-effective transport and shipping options.

Morocco’s modern infrastructure network — including new highways, power corridors, and rail extensions — further enhances the project’s competitiveness and supports efficient export logistics.

Strategic Outlook

The global lead market continues to show stable long-term demand, primarily driven by the battery, automotive, and renewable energy storage sectors. The Zaida project’s geological quality, proven production history, and existing infrastructure make it an ideal candidate for redevelopment under modern operational and ESG standards.

SOCUMA SARL, under the strategic oversight of Artemis MM Resources, aims to revive Zaida as a responsible, export-oriented mining operation, emphasizing safety, environmental performance, and community development. The project contributes to Morocco’s national mining policy, promoting investment in strategic metals while creating local employment and supporting regional economic growth.

Conclusion

The Zaida Lead Project, through SOCUMA SARL, represents a technically validated, strategically located, and sustainable mining opportunity. With a solid historical production record, confirmed resources, and strong infrastructure, Zaida offers Artemis Mining a unique opportunity to restore one of Morocco’s historic lead mines to modern standards of productivity and responsibility.

As part of Artemis’ diversified portfolio — alongside iron ore and industrial mineral assets — Zaida plays a central role in strengthening the company’s regional presence and advancing its long-term vision for responsible resource development across North Africa.