The phase one and two concentrators are currently operating at reduced capacity, processing ore from existing surface stockpiles.
On 18 May, seismic disturbances occurred in the eastern section of the Kakula mine. In response, the management team at Kamoa Copper halted underground mining operations as a safety measure. All personnel were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported. Mobile equipment has also been removed from the affected area.
The Kamoa-Kakula complex is operated by Kamoa Copper, a joint venture that includes Ivanhoe Mines and Zijin Mining Group, each holding 39.6%, Crystal River Global with 0.8%, and the DRC Government with a 20% stake.
Following the event, senior management and geotechnical experts initiated a detailed inspection of the impacted area. The western section of the mine has already been reviewed and declared safe, with operations in that area expected to resume soon. The eastern section remains under evaluation to assess potential impacts on underground infrastructure, including critical systems such as pumps.
In the meantime, the site’s phase one and two concentrators are operating at reduced capacity. These facilities are processing ore from surface stockpiles accumulated in advance. As of 30 April 2025, these stockpiles include approximately 3.8 million tonnes of high- and medium-grade ore, with an average copper grade of 3.2%.
Mining operations at the separate Kamoa underground mine, as well as activities at the phase three concentrator—which began commercial production in August 2024—have not been affected by the seismic event at Kakula.
The company has reiterated its commitment to maintaining safety standards and minimizing operational disruptions. Further updates will be provided as assessments progress and restoration of full operations is planned.
