The Kipushi Mine, renowned for its ultra-high-grade zinc, copper, lead, and germanium reserves, officially reopened on November 17, 2024, following a grand ceremony led by President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
This milestone event brought together a distinguished delegation of national, provincial, and local leaders.
Operated by Ivanhoe Mines in partnership with Gécamines, the mine is set to produce 278,000 tonnes of payable zinc annually by 2025 while achieving the world’s lowest greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions per tonne of zinc produced at just 0.019 tonnes of CO2 equivalent.
Ivanhoe Mines’ Executive Co-Chair Robert Friedland celebrated the reopening as a pivotal achievement: “The Kipushi Mine represents a rebirth for one of the world’s richest deposits. This partnership underscores how responsible mining can create prosperity for local communities while prioritizing sustainability.”
Kipushi’s reopening marks a major milestone for the mining sector, with 97% of its workforce being Congolese, highlighting a strong commitment to local employment and empowerment.
Gécamines Chairman Guy-Robert Lukama Nkunzi highlighted the historical significance of this moment: “The Kipushi Mine, once the heart of this town, is now reborn. It will not only fuel economic growth but also transform the livelihoods of Kipushi’s residents.”
A New Era for the DRC and Global Mining
The reopening of the Kipushi Mine is transformative for both the DRC and international markets. Domestically, it revitalizes Kipushi town, creating jobs and fostering infrastructure development.
Additionally, it strengthens the DRC’s position as a global leader in zinc and copper production, underscoring its vast potential for resource-based economic growth.
Globally, Kipushi’s innovative approach to sustainable mining sets a new industry benchmark. The mine’s GHG emissions are expected to be the lowest of any major zinc producer, aligning with the international demand for greener, high-quality metals essential for the energy transition.
Ivanhoe Mines’ President, Marna Cloete, expressed her pride in the project’s sustainable development focus: “Today, we are breathing new life into one of the world’s richest deposits. This milestone demonstrates that responsible mining can drive shared prosperity for local communities and global stakeholders alike.”
The Kipushi Mine complements Ivanhoe Mines’ portfolio, including the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex, ranked as the world’s greenest major copper mine. Together, these projects position the DRC as a critical player in meeting the global demand for low-carbon, high-grade metals.
Beyond Mining: A Catalyst for Development
The impact of the Kipushi Mine extends beyond the extraction of resources.
It serves as a catalyst for broader economic and social development, with investments in community projects and infrastructure benefiting the local population. Kipushi also reinforces the importance of public-private partnerships in unlocking the DRC’s full potential.
Recognition of Ivanhoe Mines in the Mining Journal’s ESG Company Index further underscores its leadership in sustainable practices, making it a model for other operators.
By adopting low-carbon technologies and prioritizing environmental stewardship, Ivanhoe is paving the way for mining to coexist harmoniously with global sustainability goals.
The Road Ahead
The reopening of the Kipushi Mine is a triumph for the DRC, demonstrating the power of collaboration between government, private enterprise, and local communities. It not only restores Kipushi’s legacy as a historic mining hub but also sets a precedent for responsible mining practices across Africa.
As the DRC strengthens its position in the global mining industry, Kipushi stands as a beacon of hope and progress, offering a glimpse into a future where economic growth and sustainability go hand in hand.
By Sylvie Manda
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