At a Glance
- Montage Gold secures two new exploration permits in Côte d’Ivoire.
- The Gbatosso permit expands the Koné project; Wendé offers new gold prospects.
- Full-scale Wendé exploration set for early 2026, targeting high-potential deposits.
Montage Gold, a gold exploration and development company, has secured two new exploration permits in Côte d’Ivoire, widening its footprint at the Koné Gold Project and adding the Wendé greenfield property to its portfolio.
The newly granted Gbatosso permit (PR0875) increases the Koné project to 1,699 square kilometers. The permit sits along the Lokolo and Yeré gold trends, both recognized for significant gold deposits, and is within trucking distance of the Koné processing plant. The location’s established mineralization makes it a key addition to Montage’s ongoing exploration work.
Wendé permit adds new prospect
Montage also received the Wendé permit (PR1044), covering 107 square kilometers along the Ouango-Fitini shear zone, an area with a history of gold discoveries.
Initial surveys have identified a 7-square-kilometer gold-in-soil anomaly, with assay results exceeding 100 parts per billion. Full-scale exploration is scheduled for early 2026, combining geochemical and geophysical studies with targeted drilling programs.
CEO Martino De Ciccio emphasized the importance of the permits, noting, “These grants expand our presence at Koné and introduce Wendé, a property with strong potential. We value the continued support from local communities as we focus on partnerships and local involvement.”
Construction at the Koné site is proceeding on time and within budget, with first gold output expected in the second quarter of 2027. The acquisition of ASX-listed African Gold, including the Didievi project, complements Montage’s near-term growth plans, while exploration at Wendé positions the company for future discoveries.
Strengthening West Africa’s Gold portfolio
Silvia Bottero, Montage’s executive vice president of exploration, highlighted Gbatosso’s strategic value along the Lokolo and Yeré trends, citing recent successful drilling. She described Wendé as a key milestone in the company’s multi-asset approach, stating, “Historical work confirms the property’s potential. Our 2026 program aims to unlock its resources as part of our broader exploration pipeline.”
The Koné Gold Project, among the largest under-construction gold operations globally, is expected to yield more than 300,000 ounces annually.
With recent leadership expansions and the completion of key project milestones, Montage is positioned to advance both construction and production efficiently.
Montage Gold’s combination of strategic acquisitions and in-house exploration underscores its focus on growing as a leading multi-asset gold producer in West Africa while developing long-term resources.
