Matthew Sharples Returns to Guinea as New CEO of Asara Resources

After a successful period at Guinea’s Kiniero gold mine, Matthew Sharples has returned to the region with renewed focus. In a move that reflects his longstanding interest in Guinean gold, Sharples has been named CEO of Asara Resources, a junior mining firm advancing the Kada gold project.

His appointment comes after a memorable chapter in 2019 when his company, Sycamore Mining, took control of the Kiniero mine—a venture that, despite its eventual sale, left an indelible mark on his career and deepened his connection with Guinea’s mining landscape.

During his tenure at Kiniero, Sharples managed to boost the mine’s resource estimates from 1.5 to 3.5 million ounces, a performance that established him as a respected figure in the mining industry. Now at Asara Resources, he is charged with moving the Kada project forward, starting with a thorough feasibility study and additional exploration work.

Current estimates for Kada stand at 923,000 ounces, with industry analysts expecting that further exploration could reveal higher-grade zones and extend the mine’s productive life.

With over twenty years of experience, Sharples brings a wealth of industry knowledge to his new role. His background in mining management, including his leadership at Sycamore Mining between 2019 and 2022, has given him a practical understanding of both operational challenges and opportunities in West Africa.

At Kada, he faces the task of translating his past successes into a framework that can capture the untapped potential of this new asset.

In addition to his operational responsibilities, Sharples holds a stake in Barbet L.L.C FZ, one of the principal investors in Asara Resources.

This dual role as both executive and investor aligns his personal interests with the company’s fortunes, a trend increasingly observed among mining professionals who aim to directly benefit from the projects they lead.

Guinea has recently emerged as a focal point for international investment, with major players like Zijin Mining, Montage Gold, and Perseus Mining showing growing interest in the country’s mineral wealth.

These developments reflect a broader trend within the global mining sector, as companies look to diversify their portfolios and secure new sources of gold amid fluctuating market conditions. Sharples’ new role at Asara is seen as part of this wider movement, where seasoned executives return to regions where they have previously found success, seeking to leverage local knowledge and established networks.

The Kada project now finds itself at the intersection of fresh investment and renewed exploration efforts. Industry observers have noted that projects like Kada will be closely watched as potential indicators of Guinea’s capacity to evolve its mining practices and capture greater value from its resources.