Akobo Minerals has announced that it was commended for the 2022 Environment, Sustainability and Governance (ESG) Explorer and Developer of the Year award by Mines and Money. The successful companies were announced at the Mines and Money London conference – Europe’s leading mining investment event – and is the second year in a row that Akobo Minerals has been nominated for this award.

Jørgen Evjen, CEO of Akobo Minerals, said: “The last twelve months have been crucial for us as we set our operations in place for pouring of first gold in the first quarter of 2023. However, I am as proud of the work we have undertaken to build a world class ESG program that will benefit all of our stakeholders, but particularly the local community in Ethiopia. The fact that Mines & Money has recognized our efforts for the second successive year is testament to the work we are doing now and will continue to do as we embed ESG in all aspects of our business.”

Mines and Money stated that the ESG Explorers and Developers of the Year Award is a prime example of companies that have embraced mining at a point where their footprint on the ground is small, allowing them to bring all stakeholders on their journey toward production.

They added that the Explorers and Developers award highlights the importance of incorporating ESG initiatives from the exploration stage, recognising the need for engagement with local communities and responsible wildlife custodianship and the health and well-being of employees during the initial phases of a mining project.