Ivanhoe updates on DRC’s Kakula copper mine development

Canadian mining company Ivanhoe Mines has reviewed the progress of the underground development of its Kakula copper mine in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The Canadian company, together with its partner Zijin Mining, has now completed more than 17 km of underground development, 5.1 km ahead of the original schedule.

The Kamoa Copper Project is located in the Kolwezi District, Katanga, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

It is a joint venture between Ivanhoe Mines (39.6%), Zijin Mining (39.6%), Crystal River Global (0.8%) and the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (20%).

Ivanhoe also noted that Kakula’s 2,000 ton ore mining system started operating last month.

According to Ivanhoe, early implementation of Covid 19 prevention measures has continued to develop kakula.

The first production in the mine is expected in the third quarter of next year.

In a press release, Ivanhoe Mines said: “As Kakula’s underground development continues over the next few months, most of the headings are expected to pass into the high grade ore zones.

“In June, more than 200 truckloads were received on site, mainly consisting of structural steel and equipment for Kakula’s first 3.8 million ton processing plant. The construction of the plant is progressing rapidly.

“Manufacturing of the plant’s largest components – two 9.75 m (32 feet) long and 6.1 m (20 feet) in diameter – was completed at the CITIC Heavy Industries plant in Luoyang, China . The shipment of the components is in progress. ”

In October last year, Zijin announced its intention to increase its stake in Ivanhoe Mines to 13.88%.

In April 2019, Ivanhoe reaffirmed its commitment to developing mining and infrastructure projects in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.