Aurum Resources has broadened its gold exploration presence in Côte d’Ivoire by acquiring a significant stake in local explorer Major Star Plus Sarl (MSP). The agreement allows Aurum to secure a 35 per cent interest in the company, with the potential to increase its stake to 95 per cent across three new exploration permit applications. This strategic move not only strengthens Aurum’s existing Boundiali and Napié gold projects but also introduces a new exploration area to its portfolio.
The newly acquired permit area spans 468.62 square kilometres, situated near Aurum’s current holdings at Boundiali, which is part of the highly prospective Birimian greenstone belt. The prospectivity of the Boundiali project is underscored by the extensive artisanal workings observed in the weathered zones of the exploration licence areas.
MSP, based in Côte d’Ivoire, is focused on gold exploration and holds various permit applications in the region. It operates as a locally registered entity with a share capital of 20 million West African francs (approximately A$54,660).
Details of the Exploration Permits
The agreement includes three key permit areas. One permit covers 114.53 square kilometres and is contiguous with the southern and western edges of Aurum’s wholly owned Boundiali South tenement, which is currently in the process of applying for a mining exploitation licence. A second permit encompasses 99.12 square kilometres and aligns with the northwest margin of Aurum’s 90 per cent owned Napié project exploration permit, which is presently under renewal.
The third permit, a new area, covers 254.97 square kilometres and is located approximately 154 km south-southeast of the southern boundary of Boundiali.
Aurum Resources’ managing director, Dr. Caigen Wang, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “It is really a rare opportunity to have one partnership that can benefit both our Boundiali and Napié gold projects and also provide an additional gold exploration project in central Côte d’Ivoire.” He highlighted the partnership as a testament to Aurum’s robust exploration and discovery capabilities, backed by ownership of 10 diamond drill rigs and drilling teams that have achieved over 7 million ounces of gold discovery in Côte d’Ivoire over the past decade.
Aurum’s strategic expansion in Côte d’Ivoire positions the company to leverage new opportunities in a region known for its rich mineral resources, with the potential for significant future discoveries. The partnership with MSP marks a critical step in strengthening Aurum’s operational footprint and enhancing its gold exploration initiatives in West Africa.
