Askari Metals Ltd (ASX:AS2) has strengthened its government and community partnerships in Ethiopia as it advances exploration planning at its flagship Nejo Gold-Copper Project.
The company has received positive support for its planned exploration and development activities at Nejo, following ongoing engagement with local community leaders, regional authorities and Federal Government representatives in Ethiopia.
Stakeholder support builds around Nejo
Askari has been working closely with the Oromia Regional Administration, regional mining authorities and Federal mining agencies as it looks to establish a long-term exploration and development presence in the country.
The company’s engagement has included meetings and consultations with community representatives, traditional leaders, regional administrative authorities, mining offices and Federal Government agencies.
These discussions have focused on Askari’s exploration strategy, community participation, employment opportunities and the potential long-term economic benefits that responsible mineral exploration could deliver.
Askari’s constructive dialogue and positive feedback had reinforced confidence in its ability to advance exploration while maintaining alignment with local and national development objectives.
Exploration planning progressing
The Nejo Project covers 1,174 square kilometres within the Arabian-Nubian Shield, surrounding the 1.7-million-ounce Tulu Kapi Mine and lying along the same greenstone belt as the 3.4-million-ounce Kurmuk Mine.
Exploration programs are targeting both high-grade gold and copper mineralisation across the project area, with work focused on the Guji-Gudeya and Guliso gold trends, which together comprise more than 18 kilometres of interpreted strike length.
Askari is also progressing high-grade copper opportunities at the Katta target area.
Current work includes geological mapping, sampling, target definition studies and integration of historical datasets as the company works toward future drilling and resource definition programs.
Operational readiness advances
Askari’s ogistics planning and mobilisation activities were well advanced, with drilling equipment already secured in Ethiopia.
The company has also secured an experienced drill operator and supporting crew for planned exploration programs, giving it a pathway to begin field activities once final approvals and program scheduling are completed.
Executive director Gino D’Anna said the company had been encouraged by engagement across all levels of government and local communities.
“One of the most pleasing aspects of our work in Ethiopia has been the overwhelmingly positive engagement we have experienced at every level, from local community leaders and regional administrators through to Federal Government officials and regulatory bodies.
“These relationships are critical to the long-term success of Nejo, and we are extremely encouraged by the strong support shown for our vision of responsibly exploring and developing what we believe is one of the most exciting gold and copper opportunities in East Africa.
“The Nejo Project offers exceptional geological potential, but equally important is the quality of the partnerships we are building on the ground. We remain committed to creating long-term value for local communities, supporting local employment and operating to the highest standards as we advance exploration activities across this highly prospective district-scale project.”
About Askari Metals
Askari Metals is an African exploration company with gold and critical minerals projects in Ethiopia and Namibia.
Its flagship Nejo Project is an advanced-stage brownfields gold and copper opportunity on the Arabian-Nubian Shield, while in Namibia the company is advancing the 100%-owned Uis Project within the Cape Cross-Uis Pegmatite Belt.
What’s ahead
Askari plans to continue advancing exploration at Nejo while further strengthening relationships with key stakeholders across Ethiopia.
The company will provide further updates as exploration activities continue and additional milestones are achieved across its Ethiopian gold and copper portfolio.