April 19, 2011: Fortuna Silver Mines Inc. (TSX: FVI / Lima Stock Exchange: FVI) – Mr. Simon Ridgway, Chairman of the Board, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Thomas Kelly to the Board of Directors of Fortuna.

Mr. Kelly is a graduate of the Colorado School of Mines with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mining Engineering and a Masters of Science degree in Mining Engineering with a minor in Mineral Economics. Tom brings 36 years’ experience in mine production, minerals industry consulting and corporate management in various Latin American countries, working mostly for international mining companies, and on behalf of resource financial institutions and banks. He currently serves as CEO of Apurimac Ferrum, a private company developing iron ore assets in Peru.

Mr. Ridgway also announced that the Company has accepted the resignation of Mr. Jeffrey Franzen from the Board of Directors. Mr. Franzen is an independent consultant and has been a Director of Fortuna since July of 2010. He leaves the Board to concentrate his efforts on various personal projects.

Jorge Ganoza, President, CEO and Director, commented: “Management and Board members of the Company would like to thank Mr. Franzen for his valuable input throughout the past months and wish him continued success in his endeavors.”

Fortuna Silver Mines Inc.

Fortuna is a growth oriented, silver and base metal producer focused on mining opportunities in Latin America. Our primary assets are the Caylloma Silver Mine in southern Peru and the San Jose Silver-Gold Project in Mexico. The Company is selectively pursuing additional acquisition opportunities. For more information, please visit our website at www.fortunasilver.com.


ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Simon Ridgway
Chairman of the Board
Fortuna Silver Mines Inc.