Last week, President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi made headlines by inaugurating the Kipushi mining plant in Haut-Katanga province. The inauguration was a major event for the mining sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo, echoing the government’s ambitious vision to revive the country’s mining economy.
The Kipushi mining plant, closed since 1993, has an impressive monthly production capacity of 45,000 tonnes of zinc. The mine, owned as a joint venture by Gecamines and Ivanhoe Mines, is known for its world-class zinc deposit, with one of the highest zinc grades in the world, averaging 36%.
The revival of the Kipushi mining plant is the result of a concerted effort to diversify the DRC’s mining economy and improve the country’s business climate. This initiative will contribute to the creation of wealth and jobs for local populations, thus strengthening the role of the mining sector as a major lever for economic development.
In the medium term, the Kipushi mine aims to increase its production and become a major player in the global zinc market. With an expected annual production of 540,000 tonnes, the KICO mine represents a strategic asset for the Congolese economy.
During the inauguration of the plant, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Gecamines stressed the importance of this project for the future of the mining sector in the DRC. He also announced that in the coming years, the Congolese State will become the majority shareholder of the KICO mine, demonstrating the government’s commitment to ensuring transparent and efficient management of the country’s mineral resources.
In conclusion, the inauguration of the Kipushi mining plant represents a significant step forward for the mining sector in the DRC. This project is part of a long-term vision aimed at boosting the country’s economy and creating sustainable development opportunities for local communities.