AKORA Resources (ASX: AKO) has attracted support from Madagascar’s senior government leaders for the transition of the Bekisopa high-grade iron ore project licence from exploration to mining.
Managing director Peter Bird and the company’s in-country team met with key officials from the Malagasy government earlier this month following the submission of a ++mining licence application++.
Madagascar’s military president Colonel Michael Randrianirina and strategic advisor Colonel Lucien Rabearimanana welcomed AKORA’s continued commitment to the nation and the flow of economic and social benefits once Bekisopa is in operation, with mines minister Carl Andriamparany also expressing strong support for the upgrade to a mining licence, citing the project’s importance to the people of Madagascar.
Both leaders noted that partnerships between Australia and Madagascar in sharing expertise in developing mining projects could serve as an example of how future projects could be responsibly developed.
Recognition Of Future Contribution
Mr Bird said the government meetings were “extremely important” for the recognition of Bekisopa’s future contribution to the Madagascan economy.
“The endorsement we received goes well beyond standard procedure with both leaders acknowledging the national value of Bekisopa—it is an immensely powerful recognition and validation of the enormous scale and economic value that our project has to the nation,” he said.
“This is a truly proactive and accelerated approach from Madagascar’s new political leadership focused on the advancement and prosperity of the nation which aligns with our strategic vision to unlock substantial value for all stakeholders.”
The issuing of mining licences in Madagascar was placed on suspension in 2011 and was officially lifted in late 2024, giving operators across the country the opportunity to resume development, community investment, and social initiatives.
Securing a mining licence for Bekisopa would be a pivotal milestone for AKORA, enabling it to advance strategic investment and financing discussions, progress detailed development planning (including a feasibility study), and continue meaningful community engagement.
