A new copper and cobalt mine has commenced operations in the DRC.

The Deziwa copper and cobalt mine and processing plant, located near Kolwezi in the south-east of the country, is a joint venture (JV) between DRC state mining company Gécamines and China Nonferrous Metal Mining Company (CNMC).

As reported by Reuters, the Deziwa deposit is estimated to hold 4.6 million tons of copper and 420 000 tons of cobalt. Annual production is expected to be 80 000 tons and 8 000 tons respectively.

Through the JV (of which CNMC holds the majority), the Chinese firm will operate the mine for nine years, with a possible two-year extension. It will then be transferred to Gécamines, which will continue operation for approximately seven to nine years.

Construction of the US$880 million project, funded by CNMC, began in May 2018.

28 January 2020
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