Askari Metals Maintains Active Stakeholder Engagement while Advancing Flagship Ethiopian Project

Askari Metals (ASX: AS2) continues to strengthen its relationships with local communities, regional government bodies, and federal authorities in Ethiopia as it develops its flagship Nejo copper-gold project.

Since establishing a presence in the region, the company has maintained an active and collaborative approach to stakeholder engagement with a view to building a solid long-term exploration and development business.

Engagements have focused on Askari’s exploration strategy, community participation initiatives, employment opportunities, and the economic benefits that responsible mineral exploration can deliver.

“The Nejo project offers exceptional geological potential, but equally important is the quality of the partnerships we are building on the ground,” executive director Gino D’Anna said.

Alignment of Objectives

Askari believes constructive dialogue and positive feedback has reinforced confidence in its ability to advance Nejo while maintaining strong alignment with local and national development objectives.

“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,” Mr D’Anna said.

“These relationships are critical to Nejo’s long-term success 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.”

“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.”

Exploration Plans Progressing

Alongside its stakeholder engagement activities, Askari is progressing exploration planning and target generation across the Nejo project, which covers 1,174 square kilometres within the highly-prospective Arabian-Nubian Shield.

The company remains focused on the Guji-Gudeya and Guliso gold trends—which, combined, have more than 18km of interpreted strike length—and continues to advance high-grade copper opportunities at the Katta target area.

Geological mapping, sampling, target definition studies, and the integration of extensive historical datasets are also moving forward as Askari works towards future drilling activities and resource definition programs.

A drilling contractor with suitable equipment and support crew has been secured in-country for planned campaigns and logistics planning, with mobilisation activities reported to be well advanced.

The work provides Askari with a clear pathway to commence field activities once final approvals are received and program scheduling is completed.