Mining in DRC - Copperbelt Katanga Mining

U.S. Ambassador Highlights Challenges in DRC's Business Climate at Kinshasa Workshop 1

At a recent workshop in Kinshasa, U.S. Ambassador Lucy Tamlyn outlined the challenges facing the business climate in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), stressing that some large international companies are reluctant to invest in the country due to concerns over its reputation. The event, which brought together government officials, private sector leaders, and civil society members, focused on creating a national action plan for the DRC. Ambassador Tamlyn highlighted the importance of the Human Rights and Security Volunteers initiative, established in 2000, which seeks to ensure that companies in… Read More Here

Mining in DRC Artisanal mining

Lualaba Governor Addresses Artisanal Mining in the Province

November 24, 2024November 24, 2024 Constance

Fifi Masuka, Governor of Lualaba province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), clarified the scale of artisanal mining operations in the region during a presentation of her first 100 days in office on Friday. She corrected the misconception that 5,000 artisanal miners were operating in the province, stating the actual number is closer to 450,000. “Sometimes, we manage them with patience and prayer,” Masuka remarked, acknowledging the potential dangers of large crowds of miners. “We’re fortunate they remain in the mines, where cooperatives organize them. However, the situation could… Read More Here

Mining in DRC Electricity

DRC Mining Sector Loses Billions Due to Energy Deficit

November 24, 2024November 24, 2024 Constance

Over the past five years, approximately $4 billion in potential revenue has bypassed the National Electricity Company (SNEL) due to the country’s chronic energy shortages. Fabrice Lusinde, the General Manager of SNEL, revealed this alarming figure during the Makutano Forum, shedding light on the significant energy deficit impacting the mining sector. According to Lusinde, mining companies currently purchase around $800 million worth of energy from SNEL annually. However, in addition to this, they import electricity worth $200 million from southern Africa and spend an additional $500 to $600 million on… Read More Here

Mining in DRC Economy

DRC Raises $65.57 Million in Treasury Bond Auction to Support National Projects

November 24, 2024November 24, 2024 Constance

The Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) raised $65.57 million through a local Treasury Bond auction held on November 19, 2024, as announced by Minister of Finance, Doudou Fwamba. The auction, which attracted six bidders, including banks and credit companies, saw a coverage rate of 65.57%, falling short of the initial $100 million target. Despite not reaching the full target, the Minister emphasized that the funds raised are critical to supporting national projects and maintaining the country’s economic stability. The bonds issued carry an interest rate of 9%… Read More Here

Corporate News Events & Expos Mining in DRC

Kamoa Copper Leads New Era of Sustainable Mining and Economic Development at Makutano Forum

November 24, 2024November 24, 2024 Constance

Kamoa Copper SA participated in the 10th edition of the Makutano Forum in Kinshasa, DRC, from November 13 to 15. As a co-sponsor of the event, the company showcased its vision for the future of mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), presenting its “New Deal” for the industry as a model of progress and sustainability. With over $5.5 billion invested over the past five years, Kamoa Copper’s scale and copper production have made a significant impact on the national mining sector. Beyond its size, the company has driven… Read More Here

Mining in DRC Cobalt Copper Corporate News

Gécamines Seeks to Block Chemaf Sale to China

November 24, 2024November 24, 2024 Constance

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s state mining company, Gécamines, has submitted a $1 million bid to acquire the cobalt and copper assets of financially troubled Chemaf. This move seeks to prevent further Chinese control of critical metals in the mineral-rich country, according to sources close to the matter. Chemaf, a partner of global commodities trader Trafigura, had previously agreed to sell its assets to China’s state-owned industrial giant, Norinco, in June 2024. These assets include copper and cobalt mines critical for electric vehicles and clean energy infrastructure. However, Gécamines, which… Read More Here

Mining in DRC Governance

DRC Minister of Mines & Jean-Jacques Purusi Take Action Against Foreign Involvement in Mining Sites

November 24, 2024November 24, 2024 Constance

The presence of foreigners in Congolese mines took center stage during a strategic meeting on November 19, which brought together the Minister of Mines, Kizito Pakabomba, and South Kivu’s governor, Jean-Jacques Purusi. The discussions focused on addressing the challenges and opportunities in this resource-rich region while emphasizing the enforcement of Congolese mining laws. Both officials underscored the necessity of a robust legal framework to ensure that natural resource exploitation adheres to established regulations. Their joint efforts aim to curb illegal activities and strengthen compliance with the country’s mining code. Separately,… Read More Here

Mining in DRC New Mining Projects Zinc

Jean-Lucien Busa Highlights Strategic Impact of Kipushi Mine Revival in DRC

November 21, 2024November 21, 2024 Constance

During the inauguration of the Kipushi Company (KICO) zinc production plant in Kipushi, Haut-Katanga, Minister of Portfolio Jean-Lucien Busa underscored the project’s strategic importance to the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) economy. This partnership between state-owned Gécamines and Ivanhoe Mines positions the DRC as Africa’s top zinc producer and strengthens the government’s economic influence. “This initiative makes the DRC the leading zinc producer in Africa and boosts the State portfolio, enhancing its assets, capacities, and influence within the Congolese economy,” Minister Busa remarked. He praised President Félix Tshisekedi’s vision, reflected… Read More Here

Mining in DRC New Mining Projects Zinc

DRC President Relaunches Kipushi Corporation to Boost Zinc Production and Jobs

November 21, 2024November 24, 2024 Constance

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Félix Tshisekedi announced the official relaunch of Kipushi Corporation (Kico SA) on Sunday during a meeting in Lubumbashi. Located in Kipushi, a mining town in Haut-Katanga, the company’s revival is expected to boost job creation and elevate the town’s global profile through zinc production, which is in high demand across industries. “Kipushi will experience a revival,” Tshisekedi stated. “Hundreds, even thousands, of direct and indirect jobs will be created. This activity will put Kipushi on the world map, as zinc remains a highly sought-after… Read More Here

Mining in DRC New Mining Projects Zinc

Kipushi Mine Resumes Operations as a Global Leader in Zinc Production

November 20, 2024November 20, 2024 Constance

After a 30-year hiatus, the Kipushi mine in Haut-Katanga, located 30 kilometers from Lubumbashi, has officially resumed operations. Known as the world’s highest-grade zinc mine, it now boasts a state-of-the-art concentrator capable of processing 800,000 tonnes of ore annually. This facility, completed in May 2024, achieved its first zinc concentrate production in June 2024. The mine, which ceased operations in 1993, is targeting 2024 production levels of 50,000 to 70,000 tonnes of zinc in concentrate. Its modern concentrator employs advanced grinding and flotation technologies, achieving a recovery rate of 96%… Read More Here