Copper 360 has commenced underground mining operations at its Rietberg Mine, in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa.
It said the reopening of the Rietberg Mine, which was closed in 1983, represents a significant milestone for the company as it is the first time in more than four decades that copper is mined in the O’Kiep Copper District (OCD).
“The commencement of mining activity at Rietberg is an exciting moment for us and the culmination of several years of planning; but inasmuch as it marks a milestone for Copper 360, it also signals the beginnings of a new era for the Northern Cape,” said company chief executive Jan Nelson.
Copper 360 said production has started with a target for the first month of 12,000 tonnes per month at copper grades of 1.6% Cu in situ that will increase over four months to 45,000 tonnes per month.
Plant recoveries of 75% to 85% are being targeted during start-up with previous test work reporting recoveries of 92%.
Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor in Chief of the African Bureau, Rough&Polished
