**Ivanhoe Mines Resumes Operations at Kakula Copper Mine Amid Challenges**
Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. has resumed underground operations at a section of its expansive Kakula copper mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo, following a temporary halt due to seismic activity that resulted in flooding. The Canadian mining company announced on June 7 that equipment and mining crews had returned to the western side of the Kakula mine, where operations are cautiously restarting.
Investors and traders in the metal markets are closely monitoring the situation at the Kamoa-Kakula complex, recognized as one of the world’s most significant copper mines. This renewed activity comes three weeks after the initial disruptions were reported, which have raised concerns about tighter global copper supplies.
Mining operations on the eastern side of Kakula are anticipated to commence “imminently,” focusing on a new area east of the existing workings, as water levels in the region have stabilized. However, the draining process is not expected to begin until the next quarter. For the remainder of 2025, underground teams will concentrate on ramping up production on the western side of Kakula, developing the new eastern mining area, and increasing output from the Kamoa section. The company has indicated that it is too early to outline plans for 2026 and 2027.
In the wake of these developments, Ivanhoe’s shares fell by 5.9% during regular trading in Toronto. Both Zijin Mining Group Co. and Ivanhoe hold a 39.6% stake in the Kamoa-Kakula project, while the Congolese government owns a 20% share. Zijin also holds over 10% of Ivanhoe, with CITIC Metal being the largest shareholder of the Canadian miner.
As the situation evolves, stakeholders will be keenly observing how these operational adjustments impact copper supply and market dynamics.
**FAQ**
*What caused the disruption in operations at the Kakula mine?*
The disruption was caused by seismic activity that led to flooding in certain underground areas of the mine.
