Ivanhoe Mines, a diversified miner with a 26-year history in the African mining sector, is aiming to enhance the sustainability goals of the group and its flagship Kamoa-Kakula copper complex in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The company plans to utilize hydropower potential and abundant sunshine to decarbonize the mining industry, while also exploring various options to increase alternative power solutions. Ivanhoe has obtained approval for environmental and social impact assessment amendments for Kamoa-Kakula’s Phase 3, while it awaits the same for its Platreef project in South Africa. The latter is expecting to receive power from a 5 MVA solar power plant before year-end, and evaluating other power options.
The company has also completed a greenhouse gas alternatives analysis for Kamoa-Kakula and implemented GHG emissions programs to reduce emissions. Additionally, the company has established a biodiversity project nursery and an apiary as sanctuaries for pollinators, promoting natural habitation and plant diversity.
To meet local procurement obligations, Ivanhoe has implemented targeted enterprise and supplier development programs, which have supported seven informal enterprises and 41 formal enterprises. Additionally, eight opportunities have been exclusively earmarked for local community suppliers.
The company is also building the Kamoa Centre of Excellence to create a sustainable and community-focused higher learning environment.
The community development initiatives of Ivanhoe have provided communities with valuable infrastructure, as well as supported local businesses and established value chains in the areas around the mining complexes. These initiatives also include investments in sustainable agriculture and farming, early childhood education, and gender equality.