Zijin Mining Faces Production risk at Key African Copper Mine

The flooding occurred due to the damage of underground pumping facilities caused by multiple mine earthquakes in late May. This led to groundwater flooding the mining surface in the eastern area of the mine. As a result, Zijin Mining was forced to slash its planned copper production for 2025 from 520,000-580,000 tons to 370,000-420,000 tons.

‌Impact on Production‌

Kamoa-Kakula was expected to be Zijin's main source of growth in 2025, accounting for over 75% of the planned increase in production. The production cut will result in a decrease of 44,000-93,000 tons in the company's equity copper production, directly impacting its annual target of 1.15 million tons of mineral copper.

‌Response Measures‌

In response to the crisis, Zijin Mining has implemented several contingency plans to mitigate the losses. Firstly, the company has resumed production in the western area of the mine, where the groundwater level is relatively controlled. Secondly, Zijin is deploying 3.8 million tons of surface stockpiled ore with an average grade of 3.2% to supplement raw materials from the affected Kamoa mine section. Lastly, the company is launching ultra-high copper grade projects to increase short-term output.

‌Long-Term Outlook‌

Despite the setback, Zijin Mining remains optimistic about the long-term prospects of the Kamoa-Kakula mine. The third-phase concentrator and underground mining in the Kamoa mine section are not affected by the flooding. The company expects to fully restore production by August 2025, once the high-power water pumps are installed and the drainage system is upgraded.

‌Industry Implications‌

This incident highlights the challenges faced by mining companies operating in geologically complex environments. It underscores the importance of robust safety measures and contingency plans to mitigate the risks associated with such events. Moreover, it serves as a reminder of the need for ongoing investment in technology and innovation to enhance mining efficiency and resilience.

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