A recent seismic event in the eastern section of the Kakula subway mine forced Ivanhoe Mines to temporarily suspend activities in that sector of the Kamoa-Kakula copper complex. Kamoa-Kakula copper complex in the Democratic Republic of Congo.located in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Activation of safety protocols at Kakula subway mine
On Sunday, May 18, 2025, Kamoa Copper management made the decision to cease underground operations and evacuate personnel to surface, following established safety procedures. At the same time, the mobile equipment was removed from the affected area. No injuries were reported among the employees.
Since the suspension, geotechnical specialists and senior executives are conducting a full structural inspection to assess lingering damage and risks. In addition, the company reported that seismic activity has been reduced and the western section of the mine has been declared safe to resume operations.
The Phase 1 and 2 concentrator plants continue to operate at lower capacity using ore stockpiled on surface. At the end of April 2025, these reserves amounted to approximately 3.8 million tons, with an estimated average copper grade of 3.2%. There are also plans to use fresh ore from the western section as operations resume.
While the inspection continues in the eastern part of Kakula, other facilities within the complex, such as the Kamoa subway mine and the Phase 3 concentrator, are maintaining normal mining operations.
Follow us on social networks and don’t miss any of our publications!
YouTube LinkedIn Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) TikTok
Source and photo: Ivanhoe Mines
