Montage Gold's Koné Project: A Milestone in African Gold Production

In the heart of Côte d’Ivoire, Montage Gold Corp. is making waves with its rapid construction progress at the Koné project. The company has just announced that process plant concrete works, including the ahead-of-schedule pouring of Carbon-in-Leach tank foundations, have commenced. This milestone is not just a testament to Montage's efficiency but also a critical step in its journey to becoming a premier African gold producer.

The groundbreaking ceremony in mid-December 2024 marked the beginning of a significant ramp-up in construction activities. The on-site workforce has surged from approximately 350 to 1,700 employees and contractors, all working tirelessly to take advantage of the dry season. The project is on track to pour gold in Q2-2027, with approximately 25% of the US$835 million capital spend already committed. This rapid progress is a clear indication of Montage's strategic planning and execution.

Martino De Ciccio, Chief Executive Officer of Montage, expressed his satisfaction with the progress, stating, "We are very pleased with the rapid construction progress being made at our Koné project in Côte d’Ivoire which builds on the momentum generated over recent quarters to progress our strategy of creating a premier African gold producer and delivering value for all our stakeholders." This momentum is not just about construction; it's about creating a sustainable and profitable gold mining operation that benefits all stakeholders.

The company's focus on exploration success is equally impressive. Montage is on track to publish maiden resources in the coming weeks, aiming to discover at least 1 million ounces of Measured and Indicated Resources at a grade 50% higher than the current Koné deposit. This exploration success will not only enhance the project's economics but also position Montage as a leader in the African gold mining industry.

Peder Olsen, President and Chief Development Officer of Montage, highlighted the company's strategic planning and execution. "We are extremely pleased with the ramp-up of our construction activities as it positions us to take full advantage of the dry season. We are benefiting from last year’s rapid success achieved in securing our mining permit and financing, while commencing training programmes, conducting land compensation, and ordering long-lead items." This strategic planning has resulted in more than 100 machines on-site and a construction team that has grown from 350 to 1,700 people over the last three months, all working without a lost-time injury.

The company's commitment to health and safety is evident in its construction progress. With 730,000 hours worked without a lost-time injury, Montage is setting a high standard for safety in the mining industry. This focus on safety is not just about protecting the workforce; it's about ensuring that the project can proceed without disruptions, which is crucial for staying on schedule and within budget.

Montage's success at the Koné project is a testament to its strategic planning, execution, and commitment to sustainability. The company's focus on exploration success, health and safety, and community engagement will not only enhance the project's economics but also position Montage as a leader in the African gold mining industry. As the company continues to make rapid progress at the Koné project, it is clear that Montage Gold Corp. is on track to become a premier African gold producer, delivering value for all its stakeholders.