Ivanhoe Mines celebrates the reopening of Kipushi mine, a vital step for sustainable resource development and local economic growth in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
On November 17, 2024, the Kipushi zinc-copper-lead-germanium mine, one of the richest deposits globally, was officially reopened by the President of the DRC, His Excellency Félix Tshisekedi. This milestone marks a major achievement in the region’s mining industry and sets the stage for significant economic and social benefits for the surrounding community.
A Prestigious Event: Government and Stakeholder Support
The reopening ceremony of the Kipushi Mine was attended by President Tshisekedi, First Lady Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi, and other high-ranking officials, including the President of the Senate, Vice Prime Ministers, and National Ministers. A ribbon-cutting ceremony led by President Tshisekedi marked the mine’s revival, followed by a tour of the operations, where the 97% Congolese workforce was acknowledged for their contribution.
Ivanhoe Mines’ Commitment to the DRC: From Copper to Zinc
Ivanhoe Mines, already known for operating Africa’s largest copper mine at the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex, is now positioning the Kipushi Mine as the largest zinc mine on the continent. Ivanhoe’s President, Marna Cloete, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainable mining practices, noting that the Kipushi reopening is not just about resource extraction but also about empowering local communities economically.
With an emphasis on responsible mining, Ivanhoe aims to develop Kipushi in a way that benefits not just the company, but the DRC and its people. Cloete highlighted that the reopening would breathe new life into the Kipushi town, helping to revitalize the region and provide new economic opportunities.
Revitalizing Kipushi: A Boost for Local Economy and Jobs
Kipushi was a thriving economic center in the past, but mining operations were halted in the 1990s, leading to economic stagnation in the area. The reopening of the mine is seen as an opportunity to regenerate the local economy by creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs. Gécamines’ Chairman, Guy-Robert Lukama Nkunzi, underscored the mine’s importance as a key asset for the country’s future and for revitalizing the region. The mine is expected to contribute to the long-term prosperity of Kipushi and beyond.
Ivanhoe Mines’ Commitment to ESG and Low-Carbon Mining
Ivanhoe Mines has earned recognition for its sustainable practices in the mining industry. The company was ranked #2 globally in the Emissions category of the ESG Mining Company Index, reflecting its leadership in emissions reduction, land and water management, and community investment. Independent consultants Skarn Associates also recognize Ivanhoe’s Kamoa-Kakula and Kipushi projects for their low greenhouse gas emissions, making them among the most environmentally friendly large-scale mines in the world.
The Future of Mining: A Sustainable and Low-Emission Approach
Both the Kipushi Mine and the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex are part of Ivanhoe’s global strategy to reduce carbon emissions while increasing production. The company’s mining operations are designed to minimize environmental impact, with an emphasis on clean technologies and sustainable practices.
The Kipushi reopening is also part of a larger commitment to responsibly tapping into Africa’s vast mineral wealth, ensuring that the benefits of these resources are shared by local communities and contribute to the global transition to more sustainable energy systems.
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