Despite facing intermittent power disruptions and challenging ground conditions, the country’s second-biggest platinum group metals (PGM) producer, Mimosa Mining Company, has demonstrated remarkable resilience with a notable 13% increase in production.
by Rudairo Mapuranga
According to Impala Platinum Holdings Limited (Implats), which holds a 50% stake in Mimosa, the company’s strategic processing approach has been instrumental in navigating through these adversities, allowing it to maintain stability and even thrive in a demanding operating environment.
In its production report for the period ended 31 March 2024, Implats noted that during the quarter, Mimosa encountered sporadic regional power disruptions and difficult ground conditions. However, the integration and commissioning of the optimized plant project in the prior comparable quarter proved to be a game-changer. Despite a 5% decline in milled 6E head grade to 3.59g/t, Mimosa achieved a significant 13% increase in concentrate production to 63,000 6E ounces. This impressive result was attributed to improved process recoveries, highlighting the efficiency of Mimosa’s processing strategy.
“Mimosa navigated sporadic regional power disruptions and difficult ground conditions in the period but benefited from processing stability following the integration and commissioning of the optimized plant project in the prior comparable quarter. Milled volumes of 715,000 tonnes increased by 10% and, despite a 5% deterioration in milled 6E head grade to 3.59g/t, production in concentrate increased by 13% to 63,000 6E ounces, benefiting from improved process recoveries,” Implats said.
According to Implats, over the nine months ending 31 March 2024, Mimosa continued to deliver strong performance despite the challenges posed by poor ground conditions. The company’s mining operations remained robust, supported by improved plant stability and recoveries. Despite a 4% decline in 6E head grade to 3.61g/t, Mimosa recorded a 5% increase in 6E concentrate production, reaching 189,000 ounces. This achievement underscores Mimosa’s ability to optimize its operations and mitigate the impact of external factors on its production output.
“Mimosa benefited from strong mining performance and improved plant stability and recoveries in the period, which countered the grade impact of poor ground conditions. Milled throughput increased by 5% to 2.14 million tonnes and, while 6E head grade declined by 4% to 3.61g/t, 6E concentrate production of 189,000 was 5% higher than the prior comparable period,” the group said.
Mimosa’s success amidst adversity can be attributed to its proactive approach to operational efficiency and strategic planning. By investing in optimization projects and prioritizing stability in its processing operations, Mimosa has been able to maintain consistent production levels and even achieve growth in challenging times. Moreover, the company’s commitment to innovation and continuous improvement positions it strongly for future success in the dynamic PGM market.