Dalaroo Metals (ASX: DAL) has significantly expanded its gold exploration portfolio by acquiring an 80% interest in the highly prospective Bondoukou Gold Project in Côte d’Ivoire.
The remaining 20% will be held by Goldridge via a joint venture, with Dalaroo free-carrying this stake until a decision to mine.
Situated approximately 35 km northwest of Endeavour's Tanda deposit, positioning it within a known mineralised region, Bondoukou includes a granted mining lease and strengthens the company's West African footprint.
The acquisition is funded by 9 million shares, 3 million options, and A$100,000 cash, with minimal upfront outlay and a free-carry through feasibility.
Additionally, a royalty structure includes US$1.67 per ounce on resource definition, capped at 3 Moz of incremental Indicated resources, and a 2.5% Net Smelter Return (NSR) on production.
Exploration Strategy in Côte D'Ivoire
Dalaroo has already mobilised an in-country team to commence exploration activities, with an initial field program spanning four to five months planned.
This program will focus on detailed mapping and geochemical sampling across the project area.
Following this initial phase of field work, there is potential for a reverse circulation (RC) drilling program.
This would aim to test identified targets and further delineate mineralisation at depth.
Project Geology and Potential
The Bondoukou Gold Project is strategically located within the highly prospective Birimian greenstone belt, a geological setting renowned for significant gold deposits across West Africa.
The area exhibits extensive artisanal gold workings, which typically indicate near-surface mineralisation.
These artisanal workings extend along a significant 9 km strike length within the project, suggesting widespread gold occurrences.
The geology is considered highly prospective for further significant gold discoveries.
Prior Exploration and Funding
Dalaroo has been actively expanding its exploration footprint in West Africa.
The company's 2025 Annual Report noted its prior engagement in due diligence for **Bongouanoa **.
More recently, in February 2026, Dalaroo announced that an in-country geological team had mobilised to Bongouanoa for field mapping and drill targeting, indicating continuous strategic interest in the region.
To support its ambitious exploration programs across various international projects, including its Greenland Blue Lagoon critical minerals project, Dalaroo has actively raised capital.
This includes a July 2025 placement that successfully raised A$877,500.
This funding, along with recent strategic appointments like Greg Barnes as Special Advisor for Greenland, highlights Dalaroo's commitment to advancing its diverse portfolio.
