Jean-Lucien Busa Highlights Strategic Impact of Kipushi Mine Revival in DRC
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 in Gécamines’ gradually increasing stake in KICO’s ownership, from the current 32% to an anticipated 80% within 12 years.
The Minister highlighted the project’s significant economic benefits, including:
- A boost in the mining sector’s contribution to GDP,
- Increased government revenue,
- Job creation for thousands of Congolese workers, and
- Skill and asset transfers to enhance Gécamines’ operational autonomy.
Jean-Lucien Busa also expressed gratitude to Ivanhoe Mines for choosing the DRC as a preferred destination for mining investments.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to advancing the presidential vision by exploring additional opportunities to leverage the country’s natural resources.
The Kipushi mine, first operational in 1924, has resumed production after 30 years of dormancy. Boasting a monthly capacity of 45,000 tonnes of zinc and ore grades exceeding 30%, the revitalized mine demonstrates the DRC’s potential to diversify its mining output. Beyond zinc, the site also produces copper, germanium, and silver.
The project includes value-added initiatives such as producing sulfuric acid and fertilizers locally, which are expected to stimulate the regional economy and create further employment opportunities.
“You can rely on your government, and specifically on the Ministry of Portfolio, to transform this vision into a sustainable reality,” Minister Busa concluded, emphasizing the government’s dedication to fostering growth in the mining sector.
