Our Operations

Overview

Kilwa Enterprises operates across two of Africa’s richest mining regions — the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia — strategically positioned within the Central African Copperbelt, one of the world’s most mineral-endowed zones.

Our operations cover the full mining value chain: exploration, extraction, processing, refining, and export logistics. Through an integrated approach, we maximize resource value while minimizing environmental impact, ensuring our activities contribute directly to the economic growth of our host countries.

Each site adheres to the highest standards of safety, governance, and environmental responsibility, following international frameworks such as the IFC Performance Standards, Kimberley Process, and ISO 14001 environmental management systems.

🇨🇩 Operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo

1. Kilwa Copper & Cobalt Mine (Haut-Katanga Province)

Located near the town of Kilwa, this open-pit mine represents the foundation of our operations.
It is among the most advanced medium-scale mining operations in southern DRC, with an integrated processing plant and access to regional export routes.

Key Facts

  • Resource Type: Copper (oxide & sulfide), Cobalt (hydroxide)
  • Annual Output Capacity: 30,000 MT copper cathodes, 3,500 MT cobalt hydroxide
  • Ore Grade:6% Cu average, 0.3% Co
  • Processing Method: Heap leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning (SX-EW)
  • Export Route: Via Kasumbalesa → Ndola → Durban
  • Power Source: Hydro-electric connection from SNEL grid supplemented by 10 MW solar backup
  • Workforce: 600+ direct employees, 80 % local nationals

Sustainability Focus

  • Acid plant water recycling to reduce waste discharge
  • Tree planting along mine perimeters (over 10,000 trees since 2023)
  • Partnerships with local cooperatives to manage waste collection and supply canteens
2. Muenda Diamond Fields (Kasai Provinces)

Kilwa’s diamond division operates across rich alluvial and kimberlite zones in the Kasai region, one of the world’s historical diamond belts.
We prioritize ethical diamond sourcing — ensuring full traceability from mine to export.

Key Facts

  • Resource Type: Gem-quality and industrial diamonds
  • Average Production: 40,000 carats per year (projected to reach 75,000 by 2026)
  • Certification: Kimberley Process & OECD Due Diligence compliance
  • Mining Type: Alluvial washing and small-scale pit mining with modern sorting systems
  • Cut & Valuation: Conducted at Kilwa’s in-house Diamond Sorting Center in Kinshasa

Sustainability Focus

  • Zero child labor policy, with independent NGO audits
  • 5 % of diamond revenue allocated to community projects (schools, water wells, clinics)

Partnership with GIA-trained valuers for gemstone classification and export certification

🇿🇲 Operations in Zambia

1. Ndola Copper Processing & Export Hub

Our Ndola Hub serves as the logistics and refining backbone of Kilwa’s Zambian operations.
It houses a cathode refinery, mineral testing laboratory, and bonded export warehouse linked to Durban and Dar es Salaam ports.

Key Facts

  • Products: Copper cathodes, gold doré, cobalt hydroxide
  • Annual Export Volume: 50,000 MT (combined)
  • Facilities: SX-EW plant, assay lab, customs warehouse, solar yard
  • Logistics Partners: Zambia Cargo Ltd, Xandros Logistics, TGI Group International
  • Safety Rating: Zero major incidents in 24 months

Sustainability Focus

  • Solar-powered warehouse reducing grid use by 30 %
  • Waste segregation and recycling program
  • Skill transfer workshops with local technical colleges
2. Kitwe Gold & Nickel Project (Copperbelt Province)

Currently under expansion, the Kitwe Project focuses on small to mid-scale gold and nickel extraction.
It forms part of Kilwa’s diversification into battery metals and strategic minerals.

Key Facts

  • Resource Type: Gold (vein-hosted), Nickel (laterite)
  • Projected Annual Output: 500 kg gold; 2,000 MT nickel matte
  • Exploration Area: 40 km² licensed block
  • Start of Operations: Q2 2026
  • Joint Venture: Local partner participation (30 %)

Sustainability Focus

  • Green mine initiative with electric mine vehicles under testing
  • Reforestation buffer zone of 200 ha planned by 2027
  • Local hiring rate: 85 % Zambian nationals

💎 Exploration & Expansion Projects

Kilwa Enterprises maintains an active exploration portfolio with focus on:

  • Platinum & Palladium: Early-stage exploration in Northern Zambia
  • Tantalum & Tin: Joint venture discussions in Maniema Province, DRC
  • Battery Metals: Cobalt–nickel laterite exploration in Lufilian Arc
  • Alluvial Gold & Diamonds: River sampling in Kasai & Kwango provinces

Our Exploration & Geology Department uses modern geophysical surveys, 3D modeling, and drone-based mapping to identify future growth assets.

🔗 Integrated Logistics & Export Network

From mine to market, Kilwa manages its logistics with precision and transparency.

Key Infrastructure:

  • DRC–Zambia Corridor: Haulage network connecting Kilwa, Kolwezi, and Ndola
  • Export Routes: Durban (RSA), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Lobito (Angola)
  • Bonded Warehouses: In Lubumbashi and Ndola
  • Air Freight: Certified cargo channels for gold and diamond shipments via Kinshasa and Lusaka
  • Partners: Xandros Logistics, Valorlink, and Lens High Value Logistics

Compliance:
All exports accompanied by SGS / Bureau Veritas certificates

  • Customs clearing through authorized DRC & Zambian agencies
  • Insurance coverage for all shipments through Lloyd’s-approved underwriters

🌿 Operational Excellence & Safety

Safety is the cornerstone of every Kilwa operation.

  • Comprehensive risk management systems and training
  • Digital safety dashboards monitoring incidents in real time
  • On-site medical clinics with 24-hour emergency response
  • Mandatory induction for all staff and contractors
  • Zero fatality record since inception

Kilwa’s safety philosophy — “Every Life Matters” — drives its daily operations and long-term planning.

🌍 Community Integration

At every site, Kilwa Enterprises implements Community Development Action Plans (CDAP) co-designed with local leaders.

Key programs:

  • Building schools and vocational training centers in Kolwezi and Likasi
  • Women’s enterprise grants for small-scale agriculture
  • Micro-finance support for local suppliers
  • Annual medical outreach campaigns and malaria prevention

By prioritizing local inclusion, we ensure that mining becomes a force for shared growth and dignity.