Montage Gold secures crucial environmental approval for Koné Project in Côte d’Ivoire
Montage Gold Corp. has announced the receipt of a signed Ministerial Order from the Ministry of the Environment, Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition of Côte d’Ivoire, granting the environmental approvals required for its Koné project. This milestone is part of the company’s broader strategy to establish itself as a premier African gold producer, starting in Côte d’Ivoire, a region noted for its favorable investment climate and significant geological potential.
Martino De Ciccio, CEO of Montage, expressed satisfaction with the progress: “The receipt of the environmental permit is a significant milestone in our permitting process and reflects the strong support received from numerous government agencies and local communities. We look forward to continuing to build on the momentum created across our business to progress our strategy.”
In addition to securing the environmental permit, Montage has also submitted its mining permit applications for the Koné project and is optimistic about receiving all necessary approvals during the latter half of 2024. The company’s efforts were further bolstered by a ceremonial meeting with President Alassane Ouattara, who reiterated the country’s support for the mining sector and the project’s potential benefits for all stakeholders.
ESIA Validation and Mining Permit Applications:
Montage prepared the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for the Koné project throughout 2023, based on the project design outlined in the updated Feasibility Study published on January 16, 2024. Working closely with the Cabinet d’Etudes Conseils d’Assistance et de Formation de Côte d’Ivoire (CECAF), an independent environmental consultancy, Montage ensured compliance with all applicable environmental standards.
The Ministerial Order for the Environmental Permit notably includes approval for in-pit tailings disposal, positioning Koné as the first mine in Côte d’Ivoire to receive this innovative environmental approval. With the environmental permit secured, Montage has lodged its mining permit applications with the Direction Générale des Mines et de la Géologie and anticipates a favorable outcome.
The project covers a total area of 357.5 sq.km, encompassing the Koné deposit and the Gbongogo Main deposit, along with associated infrastructure necessary for the development of the mine. This comprehensive approach underlines Montage’s commitment to sustainable mining practices and its goal of becoming a key player in the region’s mining industry.
Montage Gold Corp.’s recent achievements in securing environmental approvals and progressing with mining permit applications underscore the company’s strategic approach to overcoming regulatory challenges and leveraging local support. The company’s focus on compliance and sustainable practices is likely to bolster its reputation and operational success in the highly competitive mining sector.