Connect with us

NEWS

Côte d'Ivoire: merger imminent for Mako Gold and Aurum Resources

Published

on

Côte d'Ivoire : fusion imminente pour Mako Gold et Aurum Resources

The merger between Australian junior miners Mako Gold and Aurum Resources is entering its final phase. Announced in October 2024, this strategic transaction, which will see Aurum take control of Mako, promises to significantly strengthen the potential for gold exploration and mining in Côte d'Ivoire.

In a statement issued on 10 January 2025, the two companies confirmed that the merger agreement is close to completion, with Aurum having already secured more than 86% of Mako Gold's shares. Remaining shareholders have until 31 January to accept the takeover offer, which marks the final stage of the acquisition.

The merger will give Aurum Resources control of Mako's major gold projects in Côte d'Ivoire, including the Napié and Korhogo projects. The Napié project is particularly promising, with estimated reserves of 868,000 ounces of gold, while a recent manganese discovery at Korhogo further enhances the attractiveness of this site. A recently identified 45-tonne gold deposit at Boundiali will also be added to the new entity's portfolio.

One of the main benefits of this merger is the consolidation of the two companies' financial resources. The new entity will have approximately AUD 20 million (around USD 12.3 million) at its disposal to finance exploration and accelerate project development. This increased capacity opens up significant prospects for fully exploiting Côte d'Ivoire's mining potential.

This rapprochement is part of the Ivorian authorities' efforts to boost the mining sector. In 2023, Côte d'Ivoire produced 51 tonnes of gold, but the government aims to double this output over the next five years. The merger between Aurum and Mako could play a key role in achieving this objective by making the country more attractive to mining investment.

Advertisement

With solid projects, increased financing and combined expertise, the new entity resulting from the merger between Mako Gold and Aurum Resources is positioned as a key player in gold mining in Côte d'Ivoire. The deal could also boost the local economy by creating jobs and increasing tax revenues for the government.

The outcome of this merger is eagerly awaited, and the Ivorian mining sector could see the emergence of a leader capable of driving a new dynamic in the exploration and exploitation of the riches of the Ivorian subsoil.

Trend

en_US