Kamoa-Kakula Achieves Record 437,061 Tonnes of Copper in 2024

By Leon Kafitwe

Kamoa-Kakula’s copper production soared to a record-breaking 437,061 tonnes in 2024, marking a 12% year-on-year growth fueled by the ramp-up of its Phase 3 concentrator in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

This stellar performance included a quarterly peak of 133,819 tonnes in Q4, up 15% from the previous quarter, and a monthly record of 47,058 tonnes in December.

For 2025, production guidance is set at an ambitious 520,000–580,000 tonnes, bolstered by robust operational upgrades and a focus on sustainable energy solutions.

Robert Friedland, Executive Co-Chair of Ivanhoe Mines, lauded the results: “The Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex has solidified its position as a global leader in sustainable, high-grade copper production. These milestones highlight our team’s commitment to excellence and innovation in mining.”

The DRC’s Kipushi zinc mine, another flagship operation by Ivanhoe Mines, contributed to the company’s success by producing 50,307 tonnes of zinc in its inaugural year.

December alone saw a monthly peak of 14,900 tonnes, reflecting the concentrator’s ramp-up towards nameplate capacity. With production guidance of 180,000–240,000 tonnes of zinc for 2025, Kipushi is poised to significantly enhance its output.

Expanding Impact on the Congolese Economy and Beyond

The record-breaking performance of Kamoa-Kakula and Kipushi underlines the DRC’s growing influence in the global mining landscape.

As one of the world’s richest sources of copper and zinc, the DRC stands to benefit from the economic ripple effects of these achievements.

The copper sector alone contributes substantially to national GDP, job creation, and foreign exchange inflows.

Friedland emphasized the broader implications: “Kamoa-Kakula’s growth is a win for the DRC, bringing significant economic benefits to local communities while addressing the global demand for essential metals critical to the green energy transition.”

In addition to driving direct revenues, these mining operations are fostering value chains within the DRC. With agreements such as the offtake arrangement for 80% of Kamoa-Kakula’s smelter production, valued at $500 million in advance payments, local smelting and refining capacities are also receiving a boost.

Positioning the DRC in the Global Market

The DRC’s copper production growth places it as a key player in meeting the rising demand for copper in renewable energy and electric vehicles.

The planned production increase in 2025 aligns with projections of copper shortages globally, reinforcing Kamoa-Kakula’s strategic importance.

Zinc from Kipushi will further support industries reliant on galvanized steel, underpinning infrastructure projects worldwide.

Moreover, the use of the Lobito Atlantic Railway for exports, which cuts transit time by more than half and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 66%, underscores a shift towards sustainable and cost-effective logistics.

A Bright Future for Congolese Mining

The success of Ivanhoe Mines in the DRC is a testament to the country’s potential as a mining powerhouse.

By leveraging cutting-edge technology, fostering local partnerships, and addressing sustainability challenges, Kamoa-Kakula and Kipushi are setting benchmarks for the Congolese mining sector and the global market.

As the sector grows, it is expected to catalyze investments in infrastructure, energy, and workforce development, further cementing the DRC’s role as a cornerstone of the international mining industry.

Kipushi Mine: A Historic Revival for the Mining Industry in the DRC – Jaina News

DRC’s Copper Production Surges to Record 45,019 Tonnes in November, Poised to Become World’s Second-Largest Producer – Jaina News