KMC to process 2.3 million tonnes of spodumene
Kamativi Mining Company (KMC) aims to process 2.3 million tonnes of spodumene ore per annum through its first-phase processing plant and the upcoming second-phase processing plant, slated to commence production in July of this year.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa officially commissioned the first phase processing plant, which has a capacity to process 300 thousand tonnes, yielding 50 thousand tonnes of concentrates, with the second phase expected to add another 300 thousand tonnes of concentrates, bringing the project’s total to 350 thousand tonnes of concentrates.
Speaking at the official commissioning, Yahua Group Chairman Mr Meng Yan stated that groundwork for resource exploration and beneficiation studies had been laid since October 2022. In December of the same year, a development plan was formulated to construct the mine in two phases. Subsequently, the Yahua Group allocated a total investment of US$249 million towards building a two-phased spodumene processing plant with a combined capacity of 2.3 million tonnes per annum.
“While construction of the Phase One plant began in March 2023, equipment installation was completed and commissioned in October of the same year. Your Excellency, construction of Phase Two of the processing plant commenced in July 2023. I am delighted to report that all works are progressing well and on schedule. We anticipate completion and commencement of production in July of this year.
“Thereafter, we expect an annual processing capacity of 2.3 million tonnes of lithium ore. This achievement stands as a milestone, a tangible testament to the enduring friendship and cooperation between China and Zimbabwe.
“During the resuscitation and development of Kamativi mine, there has been remarkable seamless integration among stakeholders from both China and Zimbabwe, overcoming myriad challenges through close cooperation and collaboration. Consequently, the unwavering support and assistance from concerned stakeholders across the spectrum have been invaluable, fostering a strong guarantee for the punctual commissioning of the project,” he said.