Kipushi zinc mine in DRC reopens
Kipushi zinc-copper-lead-germanium mine in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has officially reopened. The move aligns with global efforts to secure critical resources like zinc and copper, crucial for infrastructure and renewable energy technologies.
The mine’s return to operation after 31 years is expected to significantly boost the DRC’s economy, while supplying critical materials to global markets. Located in Haut-Katanga, the Kipushi Mine’s rich zinc, copper, lead, and germanium deposits position it as one of the world’s most valuable mineral resources. Over the first five years, annual zinc production is expected to average 278,000 t at a concentrate grade of 55% zinc and a 96% recovery target. Initial zinc production forecast for 2024 is between 50,000 and 70,000 tonnes (t).
Economic empowerment
The project is operated by Kipushi Corporation (KICO), a joint venture between Ivanhoe Mines (68%) and state-owned Gécamines (32%). An 800,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) concentrator facility was completed in May 2024, with production commencing in June. The mine aims to create economic empowerment for local communities, reviving Kipushi town’s economy, which had stagnated since the mine’s closure in the 1990s.
Ivanhoe Mines President Marna Cloete emphasized the role of responsible mining in driving shared prosperity, highlighting the project’s importance for both the local population and the global mining sector.
Historically, the Kipushi Mine was central to the town of Kipushi and had been a symbol of industrial progress until its closure. Gécamines Chairman Guy-Robert Lukama Nkunzi referred to the reopening as a chance for a “new economic paradigm” benefitting the region.
In August 2024, Ivanhoe Mines announced commercial production at the Phase III concentrator of its Kamoa-Kakula Copper Mine in the DRC. This development raises copper production capacity to over 600,000 tpa, further consolidating Ivanhoe’s role in the DRC’s mining sector.
