Ivanhoe Mines Targets Record Copper Output in the DRC for 2025

Ivanhoe Mines, listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), has set an ambitious production target for its flagship Kamoa-Kakula copper complex in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), aiming for between 520,000 and 580,000 tonnes of copper in concentrate in 2025. This target builds on the record-breaking success of 2024, where the complex produced 437,061 tonnes, marking a 12% year-on-year increase.

Nornickel Eyes Innovation to Sustain Palladium Demand Amid Shifting Global Trends

Nornickel, the world’s largest palladium producer, is exploring new technologies to sustain demand for palladium, particularly in China, as the rise of electric vehicles diminishes the need for the metal in traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. The company is partnering with Chinese universities and industries to develop applications in hydrogen production and water purification, which could generate up to 15 tons of new, long-term palladium demand. As China leads the charge in green technologies, Nornickel is positioning itself to meet the evolving demand and maintain its market dominance through innovation and collaboration.

Mitsui’s High Stakes in Zambia: A Tale of Copper and Opportunity

In the heart of Zambia’s copper belt, where red metal veins hold the promise of a greener future, Mitsui & Co. emerged as the leading contender in a $2 billion bid for stakes in First Quantum Minerals’ Sentinel and Kansanshi mines. As global demand for copper surges, fueled by electric vehicles and renewable energy ambitions, Mitsui’s strategic offer reportedly outpaced Saudi Arabia’s Manara Minerals. With Zambia accounting for half of First Quantum’s output and $450 million in operating profit last year, the stakes are monumental—not just for the corporate giants vying for control, but for a nation poised at the crossroads of economic opportunity and global resource competition.

Increasing Wave of Illegal Miners Resurfacing from North West Mineshaft

Nearly 600 illegal miners have resurfaced from a Stilfontein mineshaft in North West South Africa, following intensified police and South African Defence Force (SANDF) interventions aimed at curbing illegal mining activities. Many of these miners, who have spent over a year underground, primarily hail from neighboring countries like Mozambique and Lesotho, seeking better economic opportunities. Upon emerging, they are met by law enforcement officials who arrest them and provide basic necessities while awaiting legal processing. This situation highlights the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to the illegal mining crisis, as it poses significant humanitarian, legal, and socio-economic challenges for both the individuals involved and the broader community.

Lucara Diamond Corp. Unveils Impressive 1,094-Carat Diamond from Botswana

Lucara Diamond Corp. has successfully recovered an extraordinary rough diamond weighing 1,094 carats from its Karowe Mine in Botswana. This remarkable find follows the earlier discovery of a 692-carat diamond, which was polished by HB Antwerp and sold for over US$13 million. The new diamond will also be polished by HB Antwerp, continuing their partnership.

As the sixth diamond exceeding 1,000 carats recovered by Lucara, this discovery highlights the company’s ability to unearth large, high-value stones from the South Lobe of the Karowe Mine. William Lamb, President and CEO, emphasized that this recovery underscores Karowe’s potential and reinforces the company’s position in the high-end diamond market.

Diamond Beneficiation Project to Empower Indigenous Communities

The Aboriginal Business Forum of South Africa (ABFSA) is set to transform the economic landscape of Kimberley with a new diamond polishing and jewellery-making factory. This initiative, aimed at benefiting marginalized Indigenous communities in the Northern Cape, was solidified this week with a memorandum of understanding signed in Namibia. ABFSA CEO Vernon Mostert emphasized that the project will not only create jobs and provide skills training but also help preserve Indigenous cultures and languages. The collaborative effort, involving the Indigenous Peoples Businesses Forum and Ministry of Trade representatives, marks a significant step towards local empowerment and economic justice.

Zambia’s Proposed Minerals Law Risks Undermining Copper Investment and Production Goals, Industry Experts Warn

Zambia’s new Minerals Regulation Commission Bill, designed to increase government control over mineral resources, is raising alarms in the mining sector. Industry experts warn that the bill’s provisions, including potential forced state acquisitions, could deter foreign investment and jeopardize the country’s goal of boosting annual copper production to 3 million metric tons. As Zambia strives to position itself as a leading copper producer, the proposed law may inadvertently create new challenges in attracting and retaining essential investments.

Resolute Mining – A Beacon of Success in African Gold Mining

Resolute Mining, a leader in African gold mining, boasts over three decades of expertise, with operations in Mali, Senegal, and Guinea. The company is committed to sustainable growth through extensive exploration, aiming to discover new deposits and expand existing resources. Resolute’s dedication to community engagement and responsible resource management underscores its mission to support regional development and environmental stewardship, making it a beacon of innovation and success in the mining sector.

Africa’s Tech Continues to Soar: Fintech Solutions and Record VC Funding Point to a Promising Future

In Africa’s dynamic tech landscape, two key developments are reshaping the future: the surge of fintech solutions tailored for freelancers and unprecedented investment in early-stage startups. With freelancers driving the gig economy, fintech platforms are revolutionizing financial management, while TLcom Capital’s $154 million fund underscores growing global confidence in African tech ventures. These trends promise empowerment and growth, heralding Africa’s ascent as a tech powerhouse.

Zimbabwe Implements New Gold-Backed Currency to Address Inflation Woes

Image source: https://www.businessinsider.com/dedollarization-zimbabwe-introduces-gold-backed-currency-zig-dollar-inflation-brics-2024-4 In a bid to combat soaring inflation and stabilize the nation’s economy, Zimbabwe’s central bank has unveiled a fresh initiative – a […]

Karowe Diamond Mine Expansion Faces Challenges

Beneath Botswana’s Karowe mine, a delayed underground expansion reveals hidden challenges and delayed fortunes. Lucara Diamond Corp’s vision faces an 18-month setback and a 25% cost surge, yet hopes remain high for the mine’s promise of extraordinary gems.

Gold Mining in Africa

The gold mining industry in Africa is a vital sector that contributes to employment, economic growth, and the development of local communities. With abundant reserves and ongoing investment, African gold mining continues to play a significant role in the global gold market. We hope this resource has provided you with valuable insights into the world of gold mining in Africa.

Coal Mining in Africa

The coal mining industry in Africa is a vital sector that contributes significantly to employment, economic growth, and energy supply. With abundant reserves and key infrastructure such as the Richards Bay Coal Terminal, African coal mining holds immense potential for meeting energy demands and supporting the development of various industries. We hope this resource has provided you with valuable insights into the world of coal mining in Africa.