Kipushi Mine
Kipushi, Kipushi Territory, Haut-Katanga, DR Congo
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
Kipushi Mine is located in Haut-Katanga, DR Congo, 35 km southwest of Lubumbashi, near the Zambia border, with a humid subtropical climate.
It produces zinc, copper, lead, and rare minerals like renierite and germanite, attracting mineral enthusiasts.
The mine's geology involves sedimentary rocks, formed through faulting and hydrothermal activity.
Mining dates back to the 9th century, with modern operations from 1925 to 1993, restarting in 2024.
The town of Kipushi is mining-focused, part of the Roman Catholic Diocese, with Olympic runner Ilunga Mande Zatara as a notable figure.
The area has rich biodiversity, part of the Congo Basin, with nearby national parks for wildlife viewing.
Direct Answer
Location and Climate
Kipushi Mine sits in the Haut-Katanga province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, about 35 kilometers southwest of Lubumbashi and close to the Zambia border. This central African location enjoys a humid subtropical climate, featuring hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters, which shapes the region's lush environment.
Minerals and Appeal
The mine is famous for producing zinc, copper, lead, and germanium, with standout minerals like sphalerite, galena, and the rare renierite and germanite. These, especially the uncommon ones, are a draw for mineral crystal enthusiasts seeking unique specimens for their collections.
Geological Insights
Research suggests the mine lies in sedimentary rocks of the Katangan Supergroup, mainly dolomite and schist, with an epigenetic formation linked to faulting and hydrothermal processes. This geological setting explains the diverse mineralization, offering a fascinating study for geology buffs.
Historical Context
Mining at Kipushi began in prehistoric times, with evidence from the 9th century and a surge in the 14th century. Modern operations ran from 1925 to 1993, and it was recently restarted in 2024 by Ivanhoe Mines and Gécamines, highlighting its enduring economic importance.
Cultural and Ecological Notes
The town of Kipushi thrives on mining, part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Sakania–Kipushi, and is home to Ilunga Mande Zatara, an Olympic marathon runner, adding a cultural highlight. The surrounding Congo Basin is rich in biodiversity, with nearby national parks offering chances to see wildlife, contrasting with the industrial mining landscape.
An unexpected detail is the mine's historical production of cadmium and silver, adding to its mineral diversity and potential collector interest.