Title: The export of copper concentrates from Kamoa-Kakula to Angola: a major step forward for the mining industry in Africa
Introduction :
The export of copper concentrates is a key part of the mining industry in Africa. In recent years, the Kamoa-Kakula copper complex in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has experienced significant growth and a first shipment of copper concentrates to Angola marks a significant step in this evolution. This article looks at this first expedition and the opportunities it opens up for the development of the mining industry in Africa.
An agreement to facilitate transit transport in the Lobito corridor:
The export of copper concentrates from Kamoa-Kakula to Angola was made possible thanks to an agreement to facilitate transit transport of the Lobito corridor. This agreement, signed in January 2023 by the DRC, Angola and Zambia, aims to facilitate the transport of copper ores from the region to export ports.
The first shipment of copper concentrates:
The first shipment of copper concentrates from Kamoa-Kakula has been successfully completed, with approximately 1,100 tonnes of copper concentrates loaded onto railway wagons at the Impala Terminals warehouse in Kolwezi. The journey along the Lobito corridor took only 8 days, compared to around 25 days to reach the ports of Durban or Dar-es-Salaam, where Kamoa-Kakula copper concentrates were previously exported.
The advantages of the Lobito corridor:
The Lobito Corridor represents a major breakthrough for the mining industry in Africa. This railway line connects the DRC’s copper belt to the port of Lobito in Angola over a distance of 1,289 kilometers, providing a shorter and faster route for the export of copper ores. In addition to reducing logistics costs, rail transport also reduces the carbon footprint of emissions linked to the export of copper.
Future prospects for Kamoa-Kakula and the mining industry in Africa:
The successful export of copper concentrates from Kamoa-Kakula to Angola opens new future prospects for the mine and for the mining industry in Africa. By using the Lobito Corridor, Kamoa-Kakula will be able to reach its international customers more quickly, which will boost trade flows and help attract more investment in the mining sector in Africa. In addition, this logistical advance will strengthen the competitiveness of the African mining industry on the international stage.
Conclusion :
The export of copper concentrates from Kamoa-Kakula to Angola via the Lobito corridor marks an important step in the development of the mining industry in Africa. This logistical advance will improve the costs, deadlines and environmental impact linked to the export of copper. Kamoa-Kakula and other mines in the region will thus be able to strengthen their position on the global market and contribute to the economic growth of their respective countries.