How MetalsGrove’s New Permits and Chair Could Unlock Côte d’Ivoire Gold Potential
MetalsGrove Mining advances its West African exploration strategy by progressing three key gold permits near the Abujar mine and appointing a seasoned industry veteran as Chair.
- Three exploration permits covering 950 km² in central-west Côte d’Ivoire pending approval
- Permits located near the 3.8 million ounce Abujar gold mine along a major fault zone
- Strong geological and geochemical indicators suggest high gold prospectivity
- Peter Ledwidge appointed Chair, bringing extensive West African gold expertise
- Company holds $1.033 million cash with $44,000 spent on exploration this quarter
Strategic Permit Acquisitions in a Premier Gold District
MetalsGrove Mining Limited (ASX – MGA) has taken a significant step forward in its West African exploration ambitions by advancing the granting process for three exploration permits in central-west Côte d’Ivoire. These permits, covering a combined area of approximately 950 square kilometres, are strategically positioned between 60 and 140 kilometres northeast of the prolific Abujar gold mine, which boasts a resource of 3.8 million ounces.
The permits lie along more than 50 kilometres of the Abujar fault/shear zone, a structural corridor known for hosting substantial gold mineralisation. Regional geological sequences and aeromagnetic surveys reveal a complex structural setting with pressure shadows and low-strain zones, features that often correlate with gold deposits. Additionally, anomalous soil and auger sampling from neighbouring areas bolster the prospectivity of these newly acquired permits.
Local Activity and Geological Encouragement
Artisanal mining activity within the permit boundaries further underscores the potential for near-surface gold mineralisation. The presence of such small-scale mining often signals accessible gold deposits that can be explored systematically. MetalsGrove’s joint venture partner, Générale des Mines et Carrières S.A.R.L (GEMICA), is managing the permit applications, with formal approvals still pending.
Leadership Bolsters Exploration Expertise
In a move that strengthens its strategic and operational capabilities, MetalsGrove welcomed Peter Ledwidge to its Board as a Non-Executive Director during the quarter. Shortly after, he was appointed Chair. Mr Ledwidge brings over 35 years of experience in gold exploration across Canada, Africa, and Australia, with a particular focus on West Africa over the past 16 years. His track record includes leading the discovery of the Napié gold deposit within the Birimian greenstone belt, the same geological province where MetalsGrove’s permits are located.
Fluently bilingual in French and well-connected in the region, Mr Ledwidge’s appointment signals MetalsGrove’s commitment to leveraging local expertise and accelerating its exploration program once permits are granted.
Financial Position and Outlook
At the end of September 2025, MetalsGrove reported a cash position of approximately $1.033 million, with exploration expenditure for the quarter totaling $44,000. The company did not engage in any production or development activities during this period, reflecting its current focus on exploration and permit approvals.
Managing Director and CEO Lijun Yang highlighted the strategic importance of the permit acquisitions and the value that Mr Ledwidge’s leadership will bring. The company is poised to commence a systematic, technically driven exploration program aimed at unlocking new value in one of West Africa’s premier gold districts.
Bottom Line?
As MetalsGrove awaits permit approvals, the combination of strategic landholdings and seasoned leadership sets the stage for a potentially transformative exploration phase.
Questions in the middle?
- When will the three exploration permits receive formal approval?
- What initial exploration results can investors expect once fieldwork begins?
- How will Peter Ledwidge’s leadership influence MetalsGrove’s strategic direction and partnerships?
