General Overview of the Zijin Mining Plant

Zijin Mining Group Co., Ltd. is a leading Chinese mining company, specializing in the exploration and extraction of metals such as copper, gold, zinc, lithium, and silver. Founded on September 6, 2000, and based in Xiamen, Fujian Province, China, Zijin has become one of the world's largest producers of copper and gold, with a production of over one million tonnes of copper in 2023. The company has recently acquired several strategic projects, including the Kamoa-Kakula mine in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which is considered one of the largest copper mines in the world. In May 2015, Zijin Mining acquired 47% of the Kamoa project (DRC) for $412 million from Canadian Ivanhoe Mines, and 47.5% of the Porgera mine (Papua New Guinea) for $298 million from Canadian Barrick Gold. [1]

As part of its partnership with Kamoa Copper, the Mining plant is preparing to broaden its horizons by participating in an ambitious copper transformation project in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This project marks an important step in the industrialization of Congolese natural resources, allowing not only to increase the added value of extracted minerals but also to create local jobs. The collaboration between these two entities represents a unique opportunity for sustainable economic development in the DRC, where mineral resources are abundant but remain largely untapped.

General Overview of the Kamoa Copper Plant

Kamoa Copper is a mining complex located in the Central African Copperbelt about 25 kilometers west of the city of Kolwezi and about 270 kilometers west of the provincial capital Lubumbashi, in the Lualaba province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, recognized as one of the largest copper discoveries in the world. The Kamoa-Kakula project is a joint venture between Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. (39.6%), Zijin Mining Group Co., Ltd. (39.6%), Crystal River Global Limited (0.8%), and the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (20%).

This project covers nearly 400 km² and focuses on the exploration and exploitation of copper and cobalt. Commercial production began in July 2021, and with the addition of a Phase 3 concentrator, the annual production capacity is expected to exceed 600,000 tonnes, placing Kamoa-Kakula among the largest copper mines in the world. The project incorporates sustainable practices by primarily using hydropower and plans to integrate solar energy sources to improve its energy efficiency.[2]

The Democratic Republic of the Congo: Immense Potential

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has exceptional mining potential, particularly in copper, of which it is one of the world's leading producers. The country has considerable reserves that, if properly exploited, could transform its economy and improve the living standards of its population. However, despite this natural wealth, the DRC faces major challenges such as a lack of adequate infrastructure and limited industrialization. To realize its potential, it is essential for the country to develop strategies to enhance its resources locally.

The local processing of copper is crucial to strengthen the economic position of the DRC in the international market. By investing in modern technologies and training a skilled workforce, the country can not only increase its production but also diversify its mining products. This would also create jobs for young Congolese and attract more foreign investments. The DRC has all the cards in hand to become a leader in the global mining sector, provided it implements effective and sustainable policies.[3]

François Balumuene, Ambassador of the DRC in China, emphasizes technology transfer

In his exclusive interview, Ambassador François Balumuene emphasized the crucial importance of technology transfer between China and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He revealed that over 180 young Congolese engineers have been trained by Kamoa Copper to acquire the necessary skills for copper processing. This initiative aims to strengthen local technical capacities while promoting innovation in the mining sector. By training these young talents, the DRC is preparing to effectively manage its own resources and leverage technological advancements.

This training program is not limited to technical skills; it also includes a cultural and collaborative dimension that promotes exchanges between Chinese and Congolese engineers. This interaction not only enriches technical knowledge but also strengthens bilateral ties between the two nations. By investing in human capital, the DRC ensures that its young professionals are well-equipped to meet future challenges and contribute to the country's industrial development. [4]

François Balumuene visits the headquarters of Zijin Mining

From September 7 to 9, 2023, François Nkuna Balumuene, ambassador of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to China, visited the headquarters of Zijin Mining. On September 7, he met with Chen Jinghe, the executive chairman of the company, in Xiamen.

Ambassador François Balumuene congratulated Zijin Mining for its rapid growth and the numerous achievements the company has accomplished in the DRC and throughout Africa. He stated that as the largest Chinese mining company operating in the DRC, Zijin Mining has fulfilled its social responsibilities through numerous programs for which it received great recognition. This undoubtedly places it as the best Chinese company in the country.

Emphasizing the importance given by the DRC government to mining investments, the ambassador indicated that the government aims to improve the mining industry and increase the added value of the mining value chain. Ambassador François Balumuene stated that he hoped to see Zijin Mining continue to invest in the DRC to boost local employment, tax revenues, and overall economic growth. For its part, the DRC government will continue to firmly support Zijin Mining in expanding its investments in the country, which will facilitate socio-economic development in both China and the DRC. [5]

Sino-Congolese Collaboration for Industrialization

Ambassador Balumuene also highlighted the strong commitment of Chinese partners towards industrialization in Africa, stating that this cooperation aligns with the strategic vision of Chinese President Xi Jinping. The latter has promised to allocate significant investments to support essential infrastructure such as energy and communication routes. These investments are vital for creating a conducive environment for industrial development in the DRC, thus enabling the country to fully exploit its natural resources.

This Sino-Congolese collaboration represents a unique opportunity for the DRC to accelerate its industrialization process while strengthening its position in the global market. By focusing on sustainable development and joint projects that benefit both parties, this alliance can transform not only the mining sector but also other key economic areas. The mutual commitment to a prosperous future also fosters a positive investment climate that will attract more international companies. [6]