BE Issue No 1469

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE www.bus-ex.com

Metro Istanbul FQM Zambia

ISSUE 1469

Kamoa Kakula Project

1915Çanakkale Bridge and Motorway

MARKING 100 YEARS OF TURKEY WITH A MASSIVE STATEMENT Exclusive interview with Mr. Mustafa Tanrıverdi, CEO of the 1915Çanakkale Bridge project

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CONTENTS

COVER STORY

6 1915Çanakkale Bridge and Motorway Marking 100 Years of Turkey with a Massive Statement When the go-ahead was given for a large suspension bridge spanning the Dardanelles strait, there could only be one name for it

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Metro Istanbul

The backbone of mobility in Istanbul Metro Istanbul first inaugurated its urban rail systems in 1988.

Roma Metropolitane Linea C

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A new engine to boost Panama’s economy Cobre Panama copper and gold mine, is making good progress.

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Rome’s 21st Century Chariot Protecting the historic legacy of this tunnel network was an engineering challenge to bring the project to realisation.

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Codelco Salvador: Rajo Inca Project

Expansion through Salvador The world’s leading copper producer and one of Chile’s largest companies.

Grand Paris Express

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Zeelink

108 Gamsberg Mine

A Project Befitting of a Megacity The Paris Metro is renowned the world over for being a work of art as much as a transit system.

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Cobre Panama

The Future of Gas The importance of natural gas to Germany’s energy transition cannot be overstated, Germany needs natural gas - now recognized as the backup fuel for intermittent wind and solar power.

FQM Zambia

Mining a Zambian Success Story Eight years have past since Business Excellence last covered First Quantum Mines for the first time.

TRECSA

Quality energy transportation for Guatemala Transporting reliable and safe energy to Guatemala.

A new era for Zinc mining The world’s sixth largest diversified resources company

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Ivanhoe Mines: Kamoa-Kakula Project

A Unicorn Copper Mining Project All too often it is forgotten that the DRC and Zambian copper belts represent the second largest reserves in the world.

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MARKING 100 YEARS OF TURKEY WITH A MASSIVE STATEMENT 1915Çanakkale Bridge and Motorway When the go-ahead was given for a large suspension bridge spanning the Dardanelles strait, there could only be one name for it. Coming a century after one of Turkey’s most well-known battles, the name chosen was a fitting one RESEARCH BY

Abi Abagun

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nyone who has read about World War I in any depth will be familiar with the Battle of Çanakkale - also known as the Gallipoli Campaign. When British and French forces attacked Istanbul in an attempt to overthrow the Ottoman Empire, they got quite a lot more than they bargained for.

The Turkish resistance was so mighty that it became encapsulated in the now common Turkish phrase: “Çanakkale is impassable.”

And now, over a century later, it gives its name to a megaproject.

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When the go-ahead was given for a large suspension bridge spanning the Dardanelles strait, there could only be one name for it.

Coming a century after one of Turkey’s most wellknown battles, the name chosen was a fitting one. Mr. Tanrıverdi says: “the term “the spirit of Çanakkale” is coined which essentially sums up Turkish people’s strong perseverance, faith, and solidarity, and is still widely accepted as a guiding principle. For this and several other reasons, I think no other name besides “1915Çanakkale” would be more befitting of this Project.”

1915ÇANAKKALE BRIDGE AND MOTORWAY

“The term ‘the spirit of Çanakkale’ is coined which essentially sums up Turkish people’s strong perseverance, faith, and solidarity, and is still widely accepted as a guiding principle”

Business Excellence recently spoke with Mr. Mustafa Tanrıverdi, CEO of the 1915Çanakkale Bridge project, someone who is intimately familiar with the significance of this history, having studied at Turkey’s leading Military High School, and of course the project that it gives its name to. When finished, the 1915Çanakkale Bridge will be the world’s longest suspension bridge.

Learning more about the project was too good an opportunity for Business Excellence to pass up.

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Overview The 1915Çanakkale Bridge project was planned by the General Directorate Highways (GDH) of the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure as part of the “Kınalı- Tekirdağ-Çanakkale-Savaştepe Motorway Project” and the section of the project that includes the bridge will begin at the south end of Malkara, before reaching into the Gallipoli Peninsula, crosses the Çanakkale Strait between Sütlüce and Şekerkaya, and ends in the district of Lapseki.

The project’s leaders were installed after a competitive tender, as Mr. Tanrıverdi explains:

“GDH appointed the joint venture bringing together DL E&C, Limak, SK ecoplant and Yapı Merkezi for the design, financing, construction and operation under the BuildOperate-Transfer model. ÇOK A.Ş. (Çanakkale Motorway Bridge Construction Investment Management Inc.) is the company established specifically for this Project. It is composed of companies Limak and Yapı Merkezi of Turkey, and DL, E&C, and SK ecoplant of South Korea within the framework of a Public-Private Partnership model.”

Total investments in the project are set to total nearly 3 billion euros. Raising

“Total investments in the project are set to total nearly 3 billion euros. Raising these funds was in itself a significant accomplishment”

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Mr. Tanrıverdi says: “Not only will these funds was in itself a Did you know? the bridge reduce the crossing significant accomplishment. time over the Çanakkale Strait to As Mr. Tanrıverdi says: “finance six minutes but the Project itself agreements were signed with Finance agreements will directly and indirectly make 25 financial institutions from were signed with 25 enormous positive contributions 10 countries on 16 March 2018, financial institutions to people’s lives within its highly securing a 15-year term loan with from 10 countries populated catchment area. By a grace period of 5 years, for a on 16 March 2018, directly connecting Istanbul total sum of 2.265 billion EUR. securing a 15-year to our country’s agricultural 70% of the loan was provided term loan with and industrial areas, it can by 19 foreign banks and financial a grace period accelerate the socioeconomic institutions, and 30% by Turkish of 5 years, for a development of both Istanbul banks. The credit package, total sum of 2.265 and the associated cities.” structured in accordance with the billion EUR. He continues: “The Project will international project financing integrate the seaports, railways standards, is composed of eight and airways in the Marmara and different tranches including Aegean regions with highway transportation Export Credit Agencies (ECA’s) and Islamic systems which will facilitate the economic financing methods.” development and balanced planning and structuring required by the industries in Socio-Economic Impact these regions,” adding: “When the motorways The 1915Çanakkale project is set to have a connect in the vicinity of Balıkesir, the highly positive socio-economic impact. As

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distance between tourism centers like İzmir, Aydın, Antalya and Europe will be shortened which will contribute to the development of the tourism sector.”

Essentially, as Mr. Tanrıverdi eloquently tells us, the bridge and its joining motorway infrastructure will place Turkey at the junction point of the Modern Silk Road which stretches from China to England. He says: “Turkey is going to serve as a base for a significant amount of merchandise trade flow, via logistic centers that are still in the making. The project will be an important point of passage for this merchandise flow, ultimately serving to boost the commercial mobility between Europe and Asia.”

Sustainability Aside from the large socio-economic impact outlined above, 1915Çanakkale is also a statement project for the advancement of ESG in Turkey. Mr. Tanrıverdi says: “Environmental and social awareness is one of our core values in the 1915Çanakkale Bridge and motorway project. We conducted an EIA Report as well as an environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) study in order to identify the environmental and social impacts of our project in more detail and to develop relevant mitigation practices.”

Of stakeholder engagement, Mr. Tanrıverdi notes: “We run our communication activities with the stakeholders within the framework of our Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) published on our website. All our stakeholders with an interest in our environmental and social performance are regularly informed - through

“Environmental and social awareness is one of our core values in the 1915Çanakkale Bridge and motorway project”

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various communication channels such as the website, project hotline, visits from community liaison officers – in an accurate, extensive, comprehensible and transparent manner.”

In terms of biodiversity, the project team carried out a transplantation study of local marine species, which led to over one thousand Pinna nobilis (fan mussels) - an endangered species of marine life - being collected and transferred to new, safer areas. Mr. Tanrıverdi also says: “In line with the international requirements of our Project, we have committed to planting five trees per each tree affected by our construction activity. “ Finally, the team behind the project conducted an extensive community-level assistance

Did you know?

Finally, the team behind the project conducted an extensive communitylevel assistance program, whereby the primary focus was to enable households to continue their livelihoods without being negatively impacted by the project or develop new ways of gaining a livelihood

program, whereby the primary focus was to enable households to continue their livelihoods without being negatively impacted by the project or develop new ways of gaining a livelihood. Mr Tanrıverdi notes that this project was implemented in 32 settlements along the project’s route in May 2019, and included a diverse range of individual programs that included agricultural training sessions, support for building a reservoir, and the development of a workshop for skills development.

Collaboration Mr Tanrıverdi was keen to emphasize the international nature of the extended team involved in the project, noting:

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“In my view, the most distinguishing aspect of the Project lies in its being a multifaceted transformation initiative led by the government”

“The project has a multinational structure, from the sponsors to the suppliers and people working at the construction site. We are working with suppliers from all around the world who have expertise and experience in their field.”

He lists these as: “The main bridge designer COWI from Denmark, tower cranes by Marr Contracting from Australia, main cable fabrication works by SPCC from China, supply of wires for temporary cabling, catwalk and hauling systems by Kiswire from Korea, tower and Splay saddle fabrications by Cividale SPA from Italy, hydraulic buffer, end stop and bearing fabrication by FIP Industriale SPA and FIP Mec SRL from Italy, hanger rope supply by Jiangsu Fasten Steel Cable from China, supply of expansion joint by Maurer SE from Germany, mass damper by TE Solution from Korea, cable band, tie-down and crosshead slab fabrication

by Samyoung from Korea, construction hoists

by Stros from Czech Republic, fabrication of steel shafts, steel towers and Bridge decks by Çimtaş from Turkey.”

Conclusion When the project concludes in March 2022, it will be a pivotal moment in Turkey’s modern history. Mr Tanrıverdi says: “In my view, the most distinguishing aspect of the Project lies in its being a multifaceted transformation initiative led by the government. The term I rather prefer for defining the main goal of the Project is “demand generation”. Çanakkale no doubt has a huge potential for tourism because of its rich history but its fertile land and educated population can

equally be attractive for agricultural and industrial production. Thanks to its proximity to both Istanbul and Izmir, Çanakkale and its surroundings would easily attract substantial investments from various sectors. Obviously, ease of transportation is the sine qua non in every investment decision.”

He continues: “Let me also emphasize the fact that the Project is considered as an integral part of China’s “Belt and Road Initiative”. It will create an uninterrupted, highly efficient trade route covering vast geography and enhance not only the regional economy but also international commercial activities. I am sure that in a couple of years we will be able to witness the positive impacts of the Project countrywide in almost all categories from employment rate to the distribution of income.”

1915ÇANAKKALE BRIDGE AND MOTORWAY

 0850 281 44 88  info@1915canakkale.com @1915CanakkaleTR www.1915canakkale.com

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Metro I

THE BACKBONE OF MO

Metro Istanbul first inaugu in 1988 by the Istanbul M RESEARCH BY

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Jo

Istanbul

OBILITY IN ISTANBUL

urated its urban rail systems Metropolitan Municipality

oseph Philips BUSINESS EXCELLENCE [ ISSUE 1496 ]

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METRO ISTANBUL

etro Istanbul first inaugurated its urban rail systems in 1988 by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. The company, which continues its activities as a subsidiary of the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IMM), operates the existing metro, tram, and funicular and cable car lines in Istanbul.

At Business Excellence, we had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Ozgur Soy, General Manager of Metro Istanbul. Mr. Soy mentioned the institution renders services in urban rail system operation with a length of 259.85 km throughout Istanbul.

It operates on 16 lines with a length of 183.15 km in the whole network, with a passenger capacity of more than 3 million every day. “We are the largest urban rail system operator in Turkey with 188 stations and a staff of more than 5 thousand people. We have 949 vehicles and own an area of over 1 million square meters”, emphasized Mr.Soy.

M

An ongoing process With the acceleration of rail system investments and the commissioning of new lines, Metro Istanbul is constantly increasing its quality. Even more so considering their ever-growing service network and passengeroriented service approach. It’s an institution that’s continually improving transportation technologies and continuously investing in R&D and human resources.

“We also provide engineering and consultancy services for both Istanbul’s future metro projects and public transportation projects in Turkey and abroad,” stated Mr. Soy. “As Turkey’s leading urban rail system operator, we aim to continue our work in line with the EFQM Model. We want to become one of the leading companies in Europe and the world”, he went on.

Employee and customer-oriented policies Furthermore, management continually carries out Customer Satisfaction Surveys

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and Mystery Customer Surveys to take quick actions to improve service quality. “We listen to our passengers and aim to improve our service quality according to the feedback we receive from them.” And that’s just what happened before the commissioning of the recent M7 Mecidiyekoy-Mahmutbey Metro Line. Due to suggestions by users, Metro Istanbul made up for certain shortcomings.

Thus, it opened a line that is 100% suitable for disabled access.

“We keep the satisfaction of our employees as well as our passengers at the top of our priorities. Therefore, we expect our employees to take the initiative, not instructions”, explained Mr. Soy. Gender equality is also at the forefront of the institution’s philosophy.

Even though rail systems are a maledominated sector worldwide, Metro Istanbul increases the number of women working in the company day by day. “In 2020, the rate of women in our recruitment was 92%.

In addition to our female train drivers, we recruited female Station Supervisors for the first time in the company’s 33-year history”.

A cultural approach to you daily commute The company’s vision is to position itself as one of the living spaces of the city. It is known that it is not easy to spare time for cultural and artistic activities in Istanbul, one of the most renowned metropolises of the world. “For this reason, we are turning our 188 stations located

“We are developing our commercial areas as well as cultural and artistic areas”

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METRO ISTANBUL

trends in the world. In doing so, they work together in 360degree communication with stakeholders, contributing to By developing the development of every supply journey planning chain link. software, we One good example of the aimed to make latter is how vehicles on the automatic Yenikapi-Airport-Kirazli-Halkali time planning Metro Line will soon operate of vehicles without a driver. Moreover, operating on the they will do so in a safer, faster, rail track with a and more frequent range. This certain tariff shows how the company is contributing to the development of vehicle procurement models of rail systems. It also supports the R&D projects of various rail system equipment and components.

Cutting edge tech To give an example of their R&D activities: This institution knows the importance of “By developing journey planning software, information systems and the effect of acting we aimed to make automatic time planning with data on increasing efficiency. That’s why of vehicles operating on the rail track with a they closely follow the latest technology and all over the city into culturalart crossroads for Istanbulites.

Thus, our passengers can visit the photography exhibition on their way home from work. Or, listen to the live performance of our metro musicians”, mentioned Mr. Soy excitedly.

“We are developing our commercial areas as well as cultural and artistic areas. Metro means speed. For this reason, we are changing our infrastructure for commercial areas where passengers can quickly meet their needs in metro areas following the metro spirit”.

Did you know?

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“Metro Istanbul is also a company that supports barrier-free transportation”

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METRO ISTANBUL

certain tariff. When the project is completed, journey planning in rail systems in Turkey will work together with software for the first time”, stated Mr. Soy.

Barrier free transportation and Covid-19

Did you know?

We care that the equipment used in the lines and stations in electrical and mechanical designs is energy efficient

Metro Istanbul is also a company that supports barrierfree transportation. It has consequently planned a Mobile Interactive Assistant application to enable visually or hearingimpaired passengers to find directions on the rail systems and benefit from relevant information.

Like every other economic sector, Metro Istanbul also felt the effects of Covid-19. Some of the measures they took had to do with constant disinfection and cleaning processes.

However, they also suspended the Night Metro services and temporarily closed some

lines, which meant losing more than 90% of passengers.

Within the “Maintain Your Social Distance” framework, the company determined safe distances for passengers in all stations and vehicles and applied markings on relevant places.

They also installed thermal cameras to monitor the body temperature of passengers at 20 stations with a high passenger density.

An environmentally sustainable operation with vision Metro Istanbul is also an advocate for environmental sustainability. “Starting from the design of the lines at the project stage, we care that the equipment used in the lines and stations in electrical and mechanical designs is energy efficient. We ensure energy efficiency by optimizing ventilation or lighting

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“We aim to become the backbone of public transportation by integrating all transportation modes in Istanbul”

systems in stations, escalators, and elevator selections. We additionally carry out many actions to ensure energy efficiency in our existing lines and stations and thus reduce our carbon emissions”.

It’s worth noting that by increasing the use of urban rail systems, the widespread use of road transport and individual automobiles in traffic diminishes. The latter helps to mitigate the city’s greenhouse gas emissions from transportation. There’s no doubt Metro Istanbul works hard to provide passengers with a high-quality travel experience.

The company’s vision is to offer an intermodal approach. “We aim to become the backbone of public transportation by integrating all transportation modes in Istanbul. And the only way of achieving this is by providing sustainable, innovative, technological and environmentally friendly transportation solutions”, established Mr. Soy.

METRO ISTANBUL

 info@metro.istanbul @metroistanbul www.metro.istanbul

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Roma Metro

ROME’S 21ST CEN

Protecting the historic legacy of this tunnel network is jus Roma Metropolitane has to overcome RESEARCH BY

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opolitane Linea C

NTURY CHARIOT

st one of the engineering challenges that the team behind e in bringing the project to realisation Abi Abagun BUSINESS EXCELLENCE [ ISSUE 1496 ]

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t is a long-held open secret of Rome that the city is traversed underground by a labyrinth of tunnels. The city’s tunnel network has been used for everything from catacombs to mushroom farming, and from bomb shelters to an unofficial sewer system. Protecting the historic legacy of this tunnel network is just one of the engineering challenges that the team behind Roma Metropolitane has to overcome in bringing the project to realisation.

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Business Excellence recently had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Andrea Sciotti, Technical Director of Roma Metropolitane, and Project Manager of Linea C, about some of those engineering challenges, as well as some of the hurdles unrelated to engineering that had to be overcome. During our interview, Mr. Sciotti exhibited something which appears common among teams on projects like Linea C forward: More than capability, they have a passion for the project that underpins their work.

ROMA METROPOLITANE LINEA C

Background: C is for Challenge

“The soil of Rome is characterized by fluviallacustrine recent sediments with extreme vertical and lateral lithological variations, and gradual or abrupt transitions.”

The C Line is the city of Rome’s third underground line, running from the eastern suburbs of the city through to its historic city centre. This route, leading into San Giovanni, is already in operation. Determining its route presented the first major challenge, as Mr. Sciotti tells us: “Italy has very strict conservation laws, so archaeology represented the first major challenge for us to overcome.

Next, there were difficulties owing to the geological and hydro-geological context.”

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Grasping the context that Mr. Sciotti refers to is crucial to understanding the specific nature of the Linc C project. He tells us: “The soil of Rome is characterized by fluviallacustrine recent sediments with extreme vertical and lateral lithological variations, and gradual or abrupt transitions.” In layman’s terms, this means that Rome’s soil has huge inconsistencies, creating obvious headaches for engineers involved in the construction of a metro line.

And finally, the route of the C Line had to respect the city’s existing underground tunnel network, now including the first two lines of Rome’s metro system. Of this, Mr. Sciotti says: “The new lines must pass underneath the old ones; new artefacts have to be realized near the existing stations in case of interchange.

This entails building deeper and deeper lines and programming partial realization steps for some of the station or tunnel artefacts.”

Extraordinary lengths were also taken to ensure the safety of the system. As Mr. Sciotti says: “Yes, we took an unprecedented action to design the best possible safety conditions with respect to fire risk through

SGS STUDIO GEOTECNICO STRUTTURALE

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SGS has always been involved in the long design process of the Rome metro system. Since 2007 SGS prepared the executive and construction design of several civil works along the Metro C line between Giglioli and Fori imperiali areas. In particular, SGS has been responsible for the evaluation of the geotechnical model for the whole line, for the executive design of 3 stations and of all tunnels excavated by traditional method, and for the review of monitoring data.

the connecting tunnels between such station and the nearby shaft have been executed in a special system to face difficult ground conditions. In fact, the excavation started with a 3.0m diameter cutter head (micro-TBM), then radial chemical and grout injections have been carried out to reduce permeability of sandy-gravelly formations and finally the widening of the section was achieved by fullface excavation with steel fore-poling, steel ribs and shotcrete.

Particularly challenging has been the excavation underneath the existing Metro A Line at San Giovanni station completed in 2016 where ground freezing technique has been used to allow excavating in granular soils under high groundwater table. Also,

SGS is now working on the design of the future structures on the Metro C line and we are very proud of helping this project to become real.

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www.studiosgsroma.com

ROMA METROPOLITANE LINEA C

“The C Line is 25.5 kilometres in length, has 30 stations, and a total of 5,500 parking spaces at those stations” the experimental fire of a train car. The safety of passengers in the event of a fire on a train while in a tunnel is one of the most thoroughly explored issues in the design of the C Line.

We were able to demonstrate in a proper manner, that the risk of propagation of a fire inside the line is practically non-existent and that the environmental conditions of the escape routes allow the safe evacuation of the passengers. The great technical, organisational and constructive effort and the cost involved in carrying out this experiment

has allowed the testers to acquire irrefutable data to ensure the safety of passengers on the C Line of Rome’s metro system, but this important information was shared with the entire international scientific community,”

The Project in Numbers When asked of the project’s vital statistics, Mr. Sciotti says: “The fundamental route represents one of the biggest ever undertaken in Europe. The C Line is 25.5 kilometres in length, has 30 stations, and a total of 5,500

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parking spaces at those stations. The rolling stock is 30 trains - each composed of six cars.

Each train measures 108 metres, with the maximum transport capacity for each train being 1,200 passengers.”

In terms of the engineering and construction required, Mr. Sciotti rolls off a number of the project’s statistics, having clearly become intimately familiar with each in intimate detail: “the construction requires excavations with archaeological assistance of 800,000 cbm and the use of 360,000 cbm of concrete and 270,000,000 kg of steel; the entire Fundamental Route will be equipped with 250 escalators, 87 electrical stations, 11 electrical substations, 200 ventilators, and 1,500 camcorders.” All of the trains also run on electricity and are driverless.

Needless to say, an operation of this scale

STEER Steer is a business consultancy working across cities, infrastructure and transport, with offices in London, Bologna, Rome and 18 other cities worldwide.

Our Design for Movement team are specialists in delivering innovative strategies and user-centred solutions for branding, wayfinding and passenger information for rail, urban transit and public realm (pedestrian and cycling) across the globe. Our experience spans the Middle East, Europe, North and Latin America and includes the design for transit projects such as Jeddah Metro, Transmilenio Bogota, Mexico City’s Nochebus, Metrolinx’s Ontario Line and Bologna’s Marconi Express.

Roma Metropolitana, the design uses font, colours, layout, messages and symbols akin to the main metro network. New elements brought by Metro C, such as platform screen doors for automated trains, required the expansion of the traditional wayfinding signage system into a wider family of sign products.

The system adopted is very simple and clean and extremely effective at the same time. The wayfinding is integrated in the architecture wherever possible, reducing the need for accessory signing structures.

This results in uncluttered environments, where signs are positioned consistently and visibly, which helps usability and legibility.

Steer developed the station wayfinding and passenger information programme for Metro C, working closely with the architectural and engineering teams to deliver full sign schedules, including information planning, sign location and content for all signs and structures.

Our team delivered a full wayfinding manual including design guidelines and rules for sign positioning and orientation, font sizing to ensure optimal legibility, fabrication materials, a bespoke family of pictograms and customised line diagrams, as well as emergency and statutory signing requirements.

Influenced by an understanding and recognition of the importance of retaining familiarity for users of

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ROMA METROPOLITANE LINEA C

is a significant investment. Mr. Sciotti says: “The estimated investment for T3, T4-T5, T6a, T7 sections of Line C (almost 22 km overall) and Graniti Depot, plus the preparatory activities of Section T2, is around 3.1 billion Euros – of which the largest share (over 63%) is borne by the State, and the rest is covered by Roma Capitale and Regione Lazio.”

A lasting contribution to the Eternal City The C Line makes several

Did you know?

The construction requires excavations with archaeological assistance of 800,000 cbm and the use of 360,000 cbm of concrete and 270,000,000 kg of steel

notable contributions to a city where any new introduction to the landscape has a lot to live up to. First, there is the aspect of connectivity with the other lines. As Mr. Sciotti says: “The intersections planned with the two pre-existing lines (and the future D Line) of the Rome Metro system and with the Regional Railway “FL1” will considerably increase the “network effect” of the public transport system. This will shift a significant portion of trips from road to rail. In

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particular, the construction of the C Line meets the travel demand of the dense and populated eastern suburbs and is of great importance to tourist users visiting the historic center.”

There is also the aspect of integrating the system with its surroundings, most visibility in the metro’s new archaeological station. This allows passengers to view the works from the station itself, making it one of the most unique of its kind, anywhere. Mr. Sciotti tells us: “The thickness of the total archaeological layer in Rome can reach 20 metres. Mainly for this reason, the tunnels have to be placed almost everywhere at depths between 20 and 35 metres below the ground level, but the impact

IMG Img is specialized service/consultancy company that supplies and manage complex geotechnical and structural monitoring systems, offers consultancy in the field of geology, geological engeneering, hydrogeology and field geophysics.

and high data quality standards are indispensable, but not only. Skills with a high technical, managerial and interpretative profile of data are fundamental, belonging only to those who have high experience in the monitoring field.

Since 2004 Img Group has been involved in the major European infrastructural projects in developing, designing and managing some of the most extensive monitoring system never realized before in analogue projects.

Our automatic systems, combined with our web GIS platform, the DDS (Data Dissemination System), allow a real time data visualization together with project progresses, meteorological data, is a crucial support for the designers, the General Contractor and the authorities to manage and control the correspondence of the expected and actual behavior of soil, structures and water table during the critical phases of the projects.

With a specialized team including many senior geologists and engineers, mainly in Italy and Poland, Img provide customized monitoring solutions to effectively address customer needs.

Img has been chosen for the geotechnical and structural monitoring (both static and dynamic) of one of the most critical projects due the presence of the historical heritage involved in the underground excavation of Line C Metro projects as the Colosseum, the Traiana Column, portions of the ancient roman walls surrounding the old town of Rome and the Basilica of Maxentius.

In such a highly critical context, rapid response times

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The DDS (developed by our multidisciplinary It department) is fully customizable to fit the client requirements. It allows to manage report, to generate alarm, to set multilevel alarm thresholds, to distribute technical documentation. It runs as a repository, with disaster recovery features, of the historical monitoring data for the claim management, insurance and for scientific researce.

www.img-srl.com

ROMA METROPOLITANE LINEA C

“The structure of the route within the historic centre of Rome, have given to the C Line the connotation of archaeological metro”

of the excavation of stations and intermediate shafts remains.”

He continues: “The structure of the route within the historic centre of Rome and the consequent need to vertically traverse the entire archaeological layer to link the underground, where the tunnels and platforms are located, with the surface where the accesses are present, have given to the C Line the connotation of “archaeological metro” – an infrastructure that is not only a means of transportation but also a means of

knowledge and enhancement of the historical heritage of the city.”

He continues: “Among the most important discoveries made during the construction of the stations and the intermediate wells are: a vast farm at San Giovanni, active since the third century BC, to which was added in the first century AD the largest irrigation reservoir of ancient Rome ever found; a barracks of the first half of the second century AD, with the annexed “Domus of the Centurion”, at the Amba Aradam/Ipponio station; a building

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ROMA METROPOLITANE LINEA C

“The priority is the continuation of the line in the historic center, to make possible the pedestrianization of the most central and delicate area of the city” from the Trajan era (end of I-beginning of II A.D.) which has been unearthed near Largo dell’Amba Aradam, with the first ancient wooden ceiling ever found in Rome; a section of an aqueduct from the Republican era, perhaps the oldest of the Roman aqueducts, in Piazza Celimontana; the remains of the “Domus of the Prefect” at the Clivo di Acilio (Imperial Forums).”

Looking Forward Line C has made huge progress, but more is to come. As Mr. Sciotti puts it: “The priority is the continuation of the line in the historic center, to make possible the pedestrianization of the most central and delicate area of the city. The tunnels have reached Piazza Venezia, at the edge of the perimeter of the future station whose design has been realized and for which in January Roma Capitale has asked the State for the necessary funding.” When the funding has been secured, Mr. Sciotti and his team will continue to do their part to ensure that the eternal city is eternally in motion.

ROMA METROPOLITANE LINEA C

 06-97659100  info@metrocspa.it www.metrocspa.it

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Grand Par

A PRO BEFITT A MEG

The Paris Metro is renowne a work of art as muc RESEARCH BY

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ris Express

OJECT ING OF GACITY

ed the world over for being ch as a transit system Abi Abagun

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he Paris Metro is renowned the world over for being a work of art as much as a transit system. A total of 86 of the system’s stations retain their original art nouveau-inspired entrances, a throwback to the Belle Epoque. But this historic beauty, undoubtedly part of the metro’s charm, also tells of its need to modernize. 100 years ago, the Paris urban area held a population of less than 5 million people. In 2021, that number has tripled.

This calls for a modern transport system, capable of meeting the demands of one of

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the world’s megacities, and connecting the centre of Paris with its surrounding region in Île-de-France. The Grand Paris Express will be central to delivering on this mandate. Business Excellence recently spoke with La Société du Grand Paris, the organisation heading up the project, which is currently the largest transport project in Europe.

Project Overview The statistics that underpin the project show why it is considered to be the largest of its

GRAND PARIS EXPRESS

“In total, there are 68 new stations, 200 kilometres of new railway, and four additional lines on which a new automatic metro will run”

kind in Europe. In total, there are 68 new stations, 200 kilometres of new railway, and four additional lines on which a new automatic metro will run. Ninety percent of this will be underground and it will accommodate 2 million passengers per day.. This last statistic alone would put it among Europe’s largest transit systems all on its own.

This will bring numerous benefits, of course. Grand Paris Express opens a whole range of opportunities for the inhabitants of Paris. These include improved access to

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employment, health care, leisure, and culture.

As well as playing a major role in rebalancing the metropolis, it promises to increase social cohesion for the population. The average journey time for remote parts of Paris to the city centre will be cut by over an hour.

And then, of course, there are the benefits that the project brings to other transport users. Grand Paris Express is an opportunity to rethink the travel habits of Parisians.

Nowadays, the main road arteries around Paris are all gridlocked at peak times in hyperdense urban environments. This project creates the possibility of a more breathable and livable metropolis, with reduced greenhouse gases and road traffic.

Of course, delivering a project of this scale is a hugely collaborative effort. La Société du Grand Paris currently has more than 7,000 workers on its construction sites and should reach a peak of 15,000 by 2022 or 2023. A social inclusion clause in its contracts with all companies working on the project means that 10% of working hours must be delivered by people in occupational integration, and more than 2 million hours have already been covered by people fitting those criteria.

Milestones Further good news comes in the form that the Grand Paris Express project is already well underway, with all of the lines now under construction. Line 14 should be ready for the Paris Olympic Games in 2024, while 84% of Line 15 is already complete. There are 10 TBM tunnel diggers working around the clock to deliver this line on time, and La Société du

“Line 14 should be ready for the Paris Olympic Games in 2024, while 84% of Line 15 is already complete”

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GRAND PARIS EXPRESS

Grand Paris has already finished station walls, with facilities such as wifi and AC soon to be delivered.

Everywhere you look, there’s something going on. There’s ongoing work on Line 16, and 7 TBMs are currently working on Line 17, which had its first TBM Florence launch in January 2021.

La Société du Grand Paris also expects to launch the first TBM on Line 18 very shortly, and is already drawing up a contract for the development and supply of the trains for this line, which will be 35 kilometres long in total.

Did you know?

Everywhere you look, there’s something going on. There’s ongoing work on Line 16, and 7 TBMs are currently working on Line 17, which had its first TBM Florence launch in January 2021.

Socioeconomic and Environmental Benefits Like any modern transport system, Grand Paris Express is not an end in itself, but rather part of a bigger question around the evolution of the city it serves.

This means interconnectivity with the city centre, education, health, and technology hubs, and the city’s three airports. It will improve the attractiveness of the territory, the functioning of labour and housing markets, and will lead to job creation and productivity gain for businesses and public services.

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GRAND PARIS EXPRESS

“The Covid-19 pandemic in Paris has the potential to be hugely disruptive for ongoing work on Grand Paris Express”

There are also tangible socioeconomic benefits that have already been planned to align with the project. For example, by 2030, 140km2 of land around Grand Paris Express stations will be turned into new mixed-use districts. The Société du Grand Paris, private developers, and public housing authorities have already started several land development programs, which will improve the living conditions of millions of people living in the area.

Decarbonization is also a central tenet of the project. An estimated 70% of the aforementioned houses will be built with biobased materials, including 50% French wood.

An estimated three quarters of French people use their cars to get to work. This project will encourage people to switch to public transport and contribute to a better environment. The Grand Paris Express will save up to 27.6 million tons of CO2 emissions by 2050.

Covid 19 The Covid-19 pandemic in Paris has the potential to be hugely disruptive for ongoing work on Grand Paris Express. However,far from grounding to a halt, works have instead adapted to the new environment:“Progress continues at a good pace, despite the ongoing crisis for more than a year but this hasn’t been without its consequences on our construction sites.

After a 4 to 6 weeks shutdown in the spring of 2020, it took several weeks to rearm the construction sites and find an optimal organization that remains conditioned on the Covid pandemic and its consequences. This

crisis caused about 3 to 8 months of delay on the lines under construction. The challenge remains to optimize the thousands of tasks required to the conception of each line to redefine realistic commissioning dates.

The Future As the only remaining megacity in the EU, Paris has justifiable grounds to lay claim to being the bloc’s most important city. The Grand Paris Express project is central to ensuring that it continues to be one of the world’s economic powerhouses. Not only does it promise to take millions of daily car journeys from the suburbian streets of Paris, it also creates economic opportunities for all. That is something that everyone can celebrate.

GRAND PARIS EXPRESS

 info@societedugrandparis.fr @GdParisExpress www.societedugrandparis.fr

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Zeel

THE FUTUR

The importance of natural gas to Germany’s energ natural gas - now recognized as the backup RESEARCH BY

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Jo

elink

RE OF GAS

gy transition cannot be overstated, Germany needs p fuel for intermittent wind and solar power.

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he importance of natural gas to Germany’s energy transition cannot be overstated. In 2010, the country passed Energiewende, its long-term energy strategy to install as much wind and solar energy as possible, as quickly as possible. To deliver on this ambitious goal, Germany needs natural gas - now recognized as the backup fuel for intermittent wind and solar power.

This reality is one reason why the Zeelink pipeline project is so important for Germany.

Crucially, it also plays a central role in the

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conversion from L-gas (low calorific gas) to H-gas (high calorific gas). Zeelink Project Director Franz-Josef Kißing was kind enough to take some time out of his hectic schedule to tell Business Excellence more about the project, its development and its significance to Germany’s energy transition.

Background Mr. Kißing began our discussion by noting how the need for the Zeelink project was identified in the Federal Network Agency’s National

ZEELINK

Gas Development Plan 2018 (Gas NDP). He told us: “Throughout Germany around five million end user appliances are still operated with L-gas. However, the production of L-gas is set to decrease by about 90 percent by 2030, mainly because of declining volumes in the Netherlands.”

This means that, for Germany, the energy transition also implies a gas transition. Mr. Kißing says: “In order to ensure that proven natural gas technologies can continue to be used, combustion systems and appliances

used by residential, commercial and industrial customers have to be converted to H-gas.

Zeelink ensures that distribution networks which still supply L-gas today can be operated with H-gas in the future.”

The Zeelink project includes the construction of the new pipeline from the Belgian-German Border all the way to North Rhine-Westphalia as well as a compressor station in Würselen and another one in Legden, currently at the design phase. The new transmission pipeline will make an important

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Dual expertise = smoother project

The story of Denys is one of ambition and success. The overwhelming reason for our skyrocketing pipeline business is our dual expertise in pipeline fitting and microtunnelling.

It’s a winning combination that leads to better-optimized planning and a smoother-running project down the road.

w w w. d e n y s . c o m

Zeelink.indd 1

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DENYS Denys is an independent Belgian construction group employing 1800 people worldwide. Our growth model is based on three pillars: diversification, innovation and internationalization.

We don’t innovate in one speciality, but as a total business in several disciplines: water, energy, mobility, infrastructure, restoration, architecture and special techniques. In each of those complementary areas of expertise we have confirmed our position as a niche player and shown ourselves to be a global reference with high added value.

The world is our building site. We want to use our pioneering knowledge and get involved as widely as possible. For example, by supporting promising growth economies with crucial infrastructure projects.

The well-considered decision to diversify was without a doubt the primary motor for our growth.

Today we have a firm foothold in Europe, North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East.

We are exploring markets such as Asia, Central and

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South America and Canada.

Since several years Denys is active on the German market and that is how we got involved in the strategic project Zeelink for OGE. With our multidisciplinary approach with a focus on added value, we were happy to be chosen as the partner to build the technical more difficult sections around Aachen. Pipe-by-pipe laying in narrow working areas as well as challenging microtunnels, all were successfully completed throughout the project.

Denys is proud to have been part of this Zeelink project and is actually working for OGE on its next technical very challenging project near Leverkusen.

If you can dream, we can build it. Our engineers are doing all they can to find an adequate solution for complex challenges. Hand in hand with our customers we build amazing infrastructure and this since 1923.

The Denys Group, a desirable partner for the most complex building and infrastructure projects. www.denys.com

ZEELINK

“Zeelink ensures that distribution networks which still supply L-gas today can be operated with H-gas in the future” contribution to supply security in Germany while also boosting natural gas transmission capacity from the north to the south.

Construction Overview Construction of the Zeelink transmission pipeline began in April 2019, shortly after the competent district governments in Cologne, Düsseldorf and Münster granted planning approval. As Kißing says: “the Zeelink crosses the Rhine, the Lippe River and the WeselDatteln Kanal as well as the “Brander Wall” (a noise protection embankment near Aachen),

over a total distance of 216 kilometres and about 13,000 pipes.”

Thyssengas GmbH (Dortmund) and Open Grid Europe (OGE) (Essen), the team behind Zeelink, have employed several innovations in the construction phase. Mr. Kißing says: “It has used trenchless digging equipment as well as methods such as micro-tunneling, but also the innovative PipeMon+ system for leak detection to ensure the safety of the pipeline in service. Some welding was also carried out using the ‘automatic welding’ process.”

Innovation is one issue, implementation

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The

construction experts

PPS. We connect.

Safely.

Your partner for success: / Pipe jacking / Foundation engineering / Civil engineering

/ Sewer construction / Shoring technology / Road construction / Pipeline construction

EUGAL - European Gas Pipeline Link Together with HABAU Hoch- und Tiefbaugesellschaft mbH we laid lots 1 and 2 from Lubmin to Ferdinandshof.

sonntag-bau.de

SONNTAG_AD_80x117_EN_3103.indd 31

31.03.21 10:18

inspired Your weekly digest of business news and views

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ZEELINK

is another. On that score too, the statistics show that Zeelink is delivering. Approximately 100,000 tonnes of steel is being used across the 216 kilometres, with each pipe being 17mm thick and hydro-tested at approximately 190 bar. Furthermore, when finished, there will be 15 sectionalizing valves and 40 kilometres of welds.

Of course, in order to ensure 216 kilometres of smooth construction progress, constant close contact with all relevant stakeholders was maintained. Of this, Mr. Kißing says: “local residents were kept informed about upcoming

work and were given contacts for questions.

On-site meetings were held at critical sections of the route with local politicians, local residents and citizens’ initiatives.” Ultimately, it is the 50% of Germans that use natural gas to heat their homes that will benefit the most from Zeelink.

Powering on through lockdown Readers will be acutely aware that the timeline of the project coincides with the advent of the Coronavirus pandemic. Mr. Kißing notes that the pandemic first arrived in Germany

“Local residents were kept informed about upcoming work and were given contacts for questions. On-site meetings were held at critical sections of the route with local politicians, local residents and citizens’ initiatives.”

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ZEELINK

“Despite external influences such as the Coronavirus pandemic, they have done an outstanding job in completing the pipeline on time and within budget”

in March 2020, but that, “the orders for the various materials had already been placed, so there was no impact there. But we had people from up to 15 nations working at the site, which was a challenge.”

However, the management team put together a holistic protection plan. Mr Kißing says that this plan included the wearing of masks in vehicles, people working in fixed groups and regular testing. He says: “We managed to mitigate the adverse effects of the pandemic. The nationwide rules published by the RKI (Robert-Koch-Institut, Berlin) are fully applied. In addition, we made weekend arrangements for workers who could not travel to their home countries over the so-called “long weekend” due to the pandemic.”

Collaboration from Top to Bottom The project company responsible for delivering Zeelink is Zeelink GmbH & Co KG, controlled by OGE (75%) and Dortmundbased Thyssengas GmbH (25%), with the latter brought on board by OGE to oversee the construction and subsequent operations of the pipeline. But this is just where the collaboration begins.

As Mr. Kißing tell us: “For the organisation of activities on site, Open Grid Europe worked hand in hand with so-called “Working Communities” (“ARGENs”). These are groups of companies that work together on a specific job for a limited period of time; a common form of cooperation on many large construction sites.” Among them were wellknown names in construction such as Pipeline Systems, Anton Meyer Bauunternehmen, Vorwerk, Max Streicher, Ludwig Freitag, all in

Germany, Denys in Belgium and the HABAU Group in Austria.

Zeelink: Opening Opportunities Zeelink opens a range of opportunities for the security of gas supply for industry and householders in the northern half of Germany, through contributing to the diversification of supply sources. For example, the pipeline connects to the Belgian gas transmission network which opens up the possibility of obtaining LNG via the port of Zeebrugge.

It also connects to the pipeline system in the north, which could allow shipping gas imported via the Nord Stream pipeline system.

In future, Zeelink will be a central axis in the Europe’s interconnected pipeline network.

Franz-Josef Kißing concludes: “One of this project’s unique features is that the pipeline runs through a variety of regions/spatial structures, from densely populated areas to rural regions strongly characterised by agriculture. I think that all the OGE employees and contractors involved deserve particular praise. Despite external influences such as the Coronavirus pandemic, they have done an outstanding job in completing the pipeline on time and within budget.”

ZEELINK

 0201-3642-0  dialog@zeelink.de www.zeelink.de

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FQM Z

MINING A ZAMBIA

It is now eight years since Business Excellence covered Firs been awarded one of almost 30 mining lice WORDS BY

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Jos

Zambia

AN SUCCESS STORY

st Quantum Mines for the first time. The company had just ences granted by the Zambian government.

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t is now eight years since Business Excellence covered First Quantum Mines for the first time. The company had just been awarded one of almost 30 mining licenses granted by the Zambian government. Global copper prices were on a downward trend that wouldn’t bottom out until late 2015. After a $1.1 billion investment, most investors would be forgiven for feeling anxious. But First Quantum knows good mining is about more than short-term trends.

Spirits were high.

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Business Excellence makes a return to FQM Zambia’s operations in 2021 document the success recorded thus far. And it is no surprise that FQM has continued to engrain its self as truly Zambian with its pro-Zambia approach in its operations. In the past three years especially, FQM’s operations in Zambia have continued to develop, expand, and modernize, showing fantastic results across board even mist of a global pandemic. And with the price of copper is trading at an all-time high opportunity has certainly met preparation.

FQM ZAMBIA

“FQM plans to invest a further $270 million by 2023 on a proposed expansion at Kansanshi, maintaining its position as the number one FDI investor in Zambia.”

When the opportunity arose to take a fresh look at the Kansanshi mine in Solwezi and the Sentinel mine in Kalumbila, it was too good to turn down.

Building on success FQM Zambia has become an integral part of the success of its parent company, First Quantum Minerals. In 2020, the group achieved its highest-ever annual copper production - 779 kilo tonnes (kt) across all of its operations.

Representing an 11% increase on 2019’s output,

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Tailor Made Solutions Founded in Zambia in 1994, Spectra Oil has grown to be one of the leading Oil Marketing Companies (OMC) in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Service sectors include: · Mining · Fuel · Retail · Agriculture · Industrial · Construction · Transport Head Office

Kitwe Office

Democratic Republic of Congo

+260 211 220728 +260 977 740 683/4 +260 966 161 912

+260 212 221612 +260 973 040 684 +260 962 326 469

+243 99 702 1837 +243 81 815 7890 +243 84 452 2227

Plot 1691 Lumumba Road PO Box 35402 Lusaka Zambia

Plot 159 Zomba Road PO Box 21086 Kitwe Zambia

18, Avenue Hewa Bora (Ex Kigali) Quartier Industriel, Commune Annexe Lubumbashi

info@spectraoil.com | www.spectraoil.com

SPECTRA

Tailor made solutions Spectra Oil has partnered with FQM in Lubrication and its attendant services since 2001 at FQM’s first operation in Zambia at Bwana Mkubwa mine.

Over the years, one of the crucial aspects of this partnership has been Spectra’s ability to understand FQM’s needs and provide generic and tailor-made solutions to support and service specialist machinery bespoke to FQM and its operations.

Spectra Oil has built a robust supply chain with overseas companies to meet FQM’s specialist needs.

With Spectra Oil working with FQM at its mines in Zambia at Kansanshi & Sentinel, this partnership has continued to grow.

“As a result of the specialist grease we supplied to Kansanshi mine crushers, an FQM team member in Zambia recommended this grease for the same application at the FQM Mauritania operation. We are fortunate to have a partner like FQM with such committed teams of people and exceptional leadership.

This partnership is the continuation of years of collaboration driven by both Spectra and FQM’s drive for Excellence.”

Robert Ngoma, National Sales Manager Spectra Oil

“Kansanshi Mine has a long – standing relationship with Spectra Oil extending back to First Quantum Minerals’ first involvement with the mine in 2005. Spectra Oil have supplied the mine with lubricants and greases for both our mobile mining fleet and fixed processing plant throughout this time. These products supplied have been to recognized international standards and Spectra Oil have supported these products with sound technical knowledge and product support on site. Spectra Oil have been valuable partners in Kansanshi Mine’s success.”

Murray McDonald, Commercial Manager Kansanshi Mine First Quantum Minerals

About Spectra Oil Corporation Limited Since its inception in 1994, following the departure of several global oil marketing companies from the country. Spectra Oil was formed by Senior directors from the departing majors. They continued to believe in the future of Africa and were determined to support the growth of businesses and industry on the continent.

Spectra Oil went on to serve all sectors of the economy with lubricants, focused on mining, and including retail, agriculture, industrial, construction and transport.

“This partnership is the continuation of years of collaboration driven by both Spectra and FQM’s drive for Excellence”

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“Kansanshi Mine has a long – standing relationship with Spectra Oil extending back to First Quantum Minerals’ first involvement with the mine in 2005” In 2003, Spectra expanded its activities into fuel, marketing and selling fuel to the same industries. Additionally, Spectra began exporting lubricants into the Democratic Republic of Congo.

In 2004 Spectra entered the retail fuel market. Since its entrance, Spectra Oil has five retail stations across the capital, with two more planned, one in the Copperbelt.

With its Head Office and lubricants depot in Lusaka, regional and lubricant offices in Kitwe, onsite lubricants depot at Kalumbila and fuel operations offices in Lusaka & Ndola, and now in DRC, Spectra Oil is strategically positioned to cater to a crosssection of customers in different regions.

With its current footprint, highly dedicated

and specialised team, plus Spectra’s ability to deliver tailor-made solutions to key customers, the Company has grown to be the leading Lubricant supplier in Zambia. It is in the top five leading fuel marketers across Zambia in a field of over 100.

Spectra is committed to servicing communities in Zambia; and has sponsored the Hydrotherapy Center in Lusaka since 2018, giving first-rate physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, Speech and Developmental therapies to disadvantaged children.

info@spectraoil.com www.spectraoil.com

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FQM ZAMBIA

“Since the last visit of Business Excellence in 2018, the company has spent nearly $4.8 billion in Zambian generating jobs, stability, and prosperity in the process” most of the growth was attributable to the record production of copper at FQM Zambia’s Sentinel mine. Even more remarkable was that the growth was achieved at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to figures from the Ministry of Mines and Mineral Development, eight of the ten large scale mining companies in Zambia recorded an increase in copper production in 2020. Total copper production increased 9.7% year on year to 882,061 mt, of which 868,670 mt was produced from large-scale mining companies and 13,391 mt from smallscale mines, the ministry said.

The ministry also expanded stating that

“the increase in output by large scale mines is mainly attributed to the increase in production

by First Quantum Minerals’ (FQM) subsidiary Kalumbila Minerals and FQM’s Kasanshi mine” Sentinel’s copper production reached 251kt - a direct result of the mine’s significant increase in throughput to 57 million tonnes.

This allowed the mine to exceed investor targets for the year, despite a sometimes challenging business climate in Zambia. It also continues to take a long-term perspective: Subject to certain factors, it plans to invest a further $270 million by 2023 on a proposed expansion at Kansanshi, maintaining its position as the number one FDI investor in Zambia.

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FQM ZAMBIA BSI STEEL BSi Steel has been operating in Zambia for more than 20 years and we pride ourselves on forging meaningful and lasting partnerships with all our clients.

We have branches in both Kitwe & Lusaka which are perfectly positioned to service all industries across Zambia. Our diverse range of steel stocks are specifically aligned to cater for all your steel needs, whether they be mining, construction, bulk purchase or once-off requirements. We have our own in country roofing line as well as a cut and bend production facility capable of producing upwards of 150 tons per month.

Our knowledgeable and professional staff are on hand to assist you with technical support as and when you require it. We run a very dynamic order processing system connected via fiber links to all our operations throughout Africa to ensure we offer the shortest possible leads times.

Our fleet of delivery vehicles are geared to handle bulk orders as well as your justin-time requirements to all corners of the country.

Our sales teams are on standby and look forward to receiving your latest steel enquiry www.bsisteel.com

“Through its Kansanshi Foundation, FQM has injected around $2 million into health, agriculture, local business development and education programmes in some of the most underprivileged neighborhoods in the country”

Socio Economic Impact The mining industry remains a very important and productive sector for Zambia, with the extractives sector accounting for around 10% of the country’s GDP. In 2019, the mining industry accounted for 28% of government income and 77% of export profits, with copper accounting for more than 90% of the sector’s exports. And the activity of FQM Zambia remains one the country’s largest tax contributors.

Zambia has experienced a nearly eightfold increase in GDP in the past two decades, with copper exports being mainly responsible for the growth. Perhaps even more important than the headline figure, however, has been the socio-economic development that has come with it. The case of FQM Zambia is indicative. Since 2018, the company has spent nearly $4.8 billion in Zambian - generating jobs, stability, and prosperity in the process.

FQM’s commitment to Zambia is reflected by the number of local partners in its supply chain, responsible for supplying everything from engineering, fuel, transportation, and

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Your mining partner.

Liebherr Zambia Limited

FQM ZAMBIA LIEBHERR

electricity to equipment and materials. FQM is committed to supporting local entrepreneurs to progress in the highly competitive value chain, with the goal of achieving as much local procurement as possible. This in turn creates a positive feedback loop that contributes to the social and economic development of Zambia.

Direct investment into the communities surrounding its mines is another way that FQM has a positive impact. Through its Kansanshi Foundation, FQM has injected around $2 million into health, agriculture, local business development, and education programs in some of the most underprivileged neighborhoods in the country. The company champions programs and contributions towards Infrastructure, Social, and Biodiversity conservation initiatives, underlining its role as a good corporate citizen and setting an example for its supply chain partners.

Hiring Locally Wherever Possible FQM Zambia’s approach to hiring locally starts within its operations where it makes it a priority to fill every position locally where possible, the company has also invested

With 50 years’ experience in the mining industry, Liebherr’s equipment sets high standards in open-cast mining operations around the world. Through advanced technologies, long lasting components and comprehensive on-site Customer Service, Liebherr mining trucks, excavators and dozers ensure the highest levels of time and cost-efficiency – even under the toughest of conditions. Liebherr is continuously growing its innovative capacity and a dedicated focus on quality ensures maximum customer value in all product areas.

As mining customers around the world show greater urgency to reduce CO2 emissions, innovative solutions such as mine site electrification pave the road for zero emission mines of the future. Liebherr Mining offers a range of solutions to help customers lower their emissions, including the Trolley Assist System for its full mining haul truck range.

Liebherr continues to pursue low emission technology for its equipment, with a target to offer fossil fuel free solutions for its entire digging, dozing, and hauling product range by 2030. www.liebherr.com

“Externally FQM Zambia procured approximately $1.65 billion of goods and services from Zambian companies in 2020 alone” BUSINESS EXCELLENCE [ ISSUE 1496 ]

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Hitachi Construction Machinery has been providing a multitude of industry customers, including mining, construction, quarry and forestry with reliable and high quality machinery and aftersales support solutions for decades.

Hitachi Construction Machinery supply an extensive range of Hitachi products, associated parts and innovative services throughout the world.

www.hitachicm.co.za

FQM ZAMBIA

services from Zambian companies in a robust training program.

Did you know? in 2020 alone. As part of this effort, The mining company sees skill over 2,500 locally registered training as a chance to broaden In 2021, businesses were contracted over its employees’ knowledge base the copper the twelve months of last year. while also helping to safeguard production for At a time when many businesses the country’s skilled labour pool Zambia led by were feeling the effects of Covidfor future investments.

FQM Zambia 19 (more of which are below), One of these projects is is forecast at a FQM offered local entrepreneurs the introduction of Zambia’s record 900,000 an economic lifeline. first-ever heavy equipment million tonnes As FQM Government Affairs operator certification. The Specialist Dr Godwin Beene certification aims to improve stated, “FQM is committed to the mining industry’s efficiency, supporting local entrepreneurs production, and overall success as they strive to get a foothold in the highly by standardising operator competency. Over competitive mining value chain.” a thousand certifications for the operation of “Our vision is sustainable and responsible drill rigs, excavators, trucks, and other ancillary local procurement that positively equipment have been awarded thus far. contributes to a complex supply chain Externally FQM Zambia procured and by extension the economic and social approximately $1.65 billion of goods and

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FQM ZAMBIA

“Through its Kansanshi Foundation, FQM has injected around $2 million into health, agriculture, local business development, and education programs in some of the most underprivileged neighborhoods in the country” development of the communities in which we operate.”

There is an understanding that engaging local businesses around its mines will stimulate capacity and ensure sustainable growth in the community.

The company also engages the services of more established supply partners including Spectra Oil Corporation Limited a leading oil marketing company with the growing contribution in the mining sector in Zambia and the DRC, Sandvik Zambia’s for equipment and fleets , Kal Tire Zambia a mining tire supply and management partner, Copperbelt Forestry Company (CFC), the vertically

integrated timber and wood processing company and Lamasat International.

Liebherr Zambia and Hitachi Construction Machinery, all of which directly contributed to the expansion of Kansanshi S3 with 35 Hitachi EH4000AC3 trolley trucks & 7 Liebherr R 9400 shovels . Elsewhere, companies such as BSi Steel a company with 20years of service in the Zambian market supplying a diverse range of steel stocks to a diverse industry including the mining sector. Saro Agro Industrial an established agricultural and mining equipment company and others like Transco, Truckmec Zambia, Royal Travel and Tours, Genesis Office Systems, and Rema Tip

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FQM ZAMBIA

“In 2023, it plans to expand its sulphide ore processing facility at the Kansanshi mine by 25 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa), bringing the mine’s annual throughput to 52 Mtpa” Top, add considerable value to the company’s day to day operations.

Negating Covid’s Impact FQM Zambia has already spent around $400,000 in the fight against Covid-19.

Throughout the pandemic, the company has worked closely with the Zambian Ministry of Health to adopt a common approach. Its investment has covered medical equipment like oxygen masks, towels, sharp boxes specially designed for the Covid-19 response, and even a genexpert machine with 10,000 kits.

Ultimately, most of the equipment was donated to the Ministry of Health operating in the North-Western province of Zambia.

Despite a steep fall off in new cases in Zambia since June, the company continues to be vigilant, putting in place all recommended health procedures to ensure that its workforce, suppliers and the communities surrounding its operation are as safe as possible.

Expansion The repeated visits to FQM Zambia are not only a pleasure, but a necessity: Continued growth of its operations means that there’s always something new to report. In 2023, it plans to expand its sulphide ore processing facility at the Kansanshi mine by 25 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa), bringing the mine’s annual throughput to 52 Mtpa. The $650 million investment represents the latest in a line of expansions since the Canadian parent group took over the mine in 2005.

In 2021, the copper production for Zambia

- led by FQM Zambia - is forecast at a record 900,000 million tonnes, confirming the country as Africa’s second largest producer of copper. And the good news for the country and FQM is that, despite historically high copper prices, industry analysts project further growth of copper prices in the years ahead, with some predicting climbs of over 50% in prices by 2025. By all accounts, there’s plenty more to come from this African success story.

FQM ZAMBIA

 +1 416 361 6400  info@first-quantum.com www.first-quantum.com

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Cobre P

A NEW ENGINE TO BOOS

One of Panama’s most significant investments, the Cobre following last year’s Covid-19-re RESEARCH BY

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Fe

Panama

ST PANAMA’S ECONOMY

e Panama copper and gold mine, is making good progress elated production interruptions.

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ne of Panama’s most significant investments , the Cobre Panama copper and gold mine, is making good progress following last year’s Covid-19-related production interruptions.

“The second quarter saw continued strong operational and financial performance. We are pleased to see the progress at Cobre Panama as it ramps up to the targeted 85-million tonnes of throughput in 2021.

This will position it strongly to build to the longer-term target of achieving 100-million

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tonnes per annum,” said chairperson and CEO Philip Pascall.

Economic outlook It’s important to mention that the price of copper has increased by 30%. The royalties paid by the Cobre Panamá mine to the Panamanian State have increased in the same proportion, according to the executive director of the Panama Mining Chamber, Zorel Morales. Every dollar that the mining industry invests in Panama dramatically

COBRE PANAMA

“Every dollar that the mining industry invests in Panama dramatically impacts the rest of the economy”

impacts the rest of the economy. Cobre Panama alone contributes 3.5% of the country’s gross domestic product, according to government figures.

The mine produced 81 868 t of copper and 36 290 oz of gold in the second quarter, a respective near-record and record performance for the operation. Cobre Panamá made its first export on June 14, 2019, paving the way for Panama to become a major country in the Central American region as an exporter of goods. This would significantly

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EPIROC

Broundbreaking Technology Epiroc is a leading global productivity partner for the mining and infrastructure industries. With groundbreaking technology, Epiroc develops and produces innovative, safe and sustainable drill rigs, rock excavation and construction equipment and tools. The company also provides world-class service, automation and interoperability solutions. Our headquarter is located in Stockholm Sweden and we are present in more than 150 countries. The region Epiroc CVCA has main offices in Colombia and Panama to have a closest relationship with customers in 13 countries in the region including Colombia, Venezuela, Central America and the Caribbean.

and passionate people to support your business productivity goals with innovative solutions that are revolutionizing the way mining and construction is done worldwide. If your project is located in Colombia, Panama, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Suriname, Guyanas or Dominican Republic, the Epiroc CVCA organization is ready to give you a close support together with a wide network of business partners, find here the Epiroc representative closest to you or find all the information about our products and services in our website: www.epiroc.com.co

After 35 years serving mining, exploration, construction, quarries and water well projects within the region, we have qualified experience

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epiroc.com

COBRE PANAMA

“Few countries in the region can boast of having a project that allows its economy to have a stable base of economic growth due to its size” increase the income the government receives from exports.

An optimistic prospect like this would come in the nick of time, considering the challenges of other essential sectors in Panama. Cobre Panama could be the “new engine” that boosts the economy. The latter would contribute to having a minimum economic growth base of around 2% of the Gross Domestic Product for several decades.

Few countries in the region can boast of having a project that allows its economy to

have a stable base of economic growth due to its size. It’s a crucial asset, considering that, in about a year, this project will allow Panama more than triple the income from their exports of physical goods.

Environmental, Biodiversity and Sustainability work Cobre Panama’s goal is to integrate sound environmental, safety, and social management practices into all aspects of the business. For the company, the importance

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ABB

Measurement & Analytics

Products, solutions and services for the mining industry To operate any process efficiently, it is essential to measure, actuate, record and control. In selecting ABB you are choosing a partner who is offering the best measurement and analytical solution for your needs, enabling maximum return on your investment. When investing in ABB’s measurement and analytical solutions you are receiving the best technology, reliability and service in the business.

ABB’s Measurement & Analytics Division is among the world’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of instrumentation and analyzers, providing comprehensive measurement and analytical solutions serving the mining industry including flow, pressure, temperature, level, thickness, flatness and tension measurement, valve automation, liquid and gas analyzers.

With the significant challenges that miners face with the availability of water, increasing regulation

and harsh process conditions the need for robust and dependable analysis is crucial to ensuring optimum process efficiency and environmental compliance.

Dedicated to optimizing productivity and performance, ABB’s certified services enable improved utilization and performance of automation equipment, processes and personnel. ABB provides support from the planning phase through to commissioning and full lifecycle servicing, according to international industry standards, enabling utmost safety and environmental protection.

For all this, ABB is your best partner for the Mining Industry. www.mx.abb.com

Measurement made easy

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COBRE PANAMA

“The company has reforested 3,120 hectares across Columbus, Coclé, Veraguas, Herrar, and Darien and will reach 10,475 hectares soon” of social responsibility for organizations lies in constructing sustainable development—the latter benefits the company, collaborators, civil society organizations, and other interest groups.

The organization’s strategic practices in favor of the environment must transcend current regulations to set a new standard for their industry and the sector. It is something extra to offer to local and global communities.

The company has reforested 3,120 hectares across Columbus, Coclé, Veraguas, Herrar,

and Darien and will reach 10,475 hectares soon. More than 3,000 hectares were planted in the areas surrounding the mine and at the national level.

As part of the reforestation plan carried out by #CobrePanamá in partnership with the Moving Lives Foundation, more than 20,000 seedlings will be planted during 2021 to restore the capital city’s forest cover.

Other philanthropic activities pursued by the organization have to do with education.

More than fifty visually impaired students

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in Penonomé and its surroundings will receive a better education. This is due to The inauguration of a new classroom in the Louis Braille Educational Resource Center for People with Visual Disabilities.

The pandemic response Following the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Panama (MINSA) guidance, Cobre Panama halted its operation during a significant period of the pandemic. First Quantum’s main shareholder said the

heightened quarantine conditions required all mining and processing operations suspension.

Cobre Panama operations general manager Gordon White said: “We have been working very closely with MINSA throughout the current Covid-19 pandemic. We respect and support the government’s efforts to reduce the impact of the pandemic in Panama. We will cooperate fully with MINSA.” Cobre Panama was suspended in early April 2021 after the Health Ministry of Panama received an order. However, no positive cases

“Operations came back online in July, together with strict biosecurity measures to mitigate the pandemic”

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Jan De Nul Group shapes water and land. Worldwide. From complex offshore services for oil and gas and renewables, to large dredging and both land and coastal reclamation projects, to challenging civil construction programmes.

Well integrated competences and investments lead to creative, sustainable and innovative solutions. In this way Jan De Nul Group delivers results that produce satisfied customers. Building a better future.

COBRE PANAMA

Strategic partners have been recorded there since Did you know?

May. Operations came back and suppliers Cobre Panama works with more online in July, together with than 1,850 local Panamanian strict biosecurity measures Cobre Panama suppliers, mainly SMEs. They to mitigate the pandemic. works with more contract services for more than The company reached prime than 1,850 local $600 million annually. According production on August 8 with Panamanian to the report “Economic three sag mills. suppliers, mainly Impact of Minera Panama on Cobre Panama has also SMEs. They the Panamanian Economy,” been providing its support with contract services published by Indesa Capital in transport and logistics to transfer for more than 2020, the mine has become residents of neighboring and $600 million an essential promoter of the difficult-to-reach communities annually national economy. voluntarily.

Some of those suppliers are With th e com pa ny ’s CNOOD ASIA LIMITED, which support, residents of different offers engineering, procurement, communities have had access and product fabrication services. Advanced to the required two️ doses of vaccines.

Technology Products Pty Ltd is another This has been coordinated through the supplier, which designed a Very Early Warning #CobrePanamáContigo program as part of Smoke Detection solution. ABB successfully the company’s efforts in conjunction with commissioned six gearless mill drives at the different government institutions to Panama’s newest mine. STRACON GyM defeat Covid-19.

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COBRE PANAMA

helped with the construction of the Tailing Management Facility. And the Panamanian Company Explosivos, Minería y Desarrollo, SA, provided a wide range of mining services, from development plans (evaluation, design, and mining planning), to rental of equipment according to customer needs.

More benefits Panama does not depend on the oil-driven commercial sectors. 75% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) comes from the robust service sector that includes banking, flagship registry, insurance, container ports, Colon Free Zone, and medical tourism.

That may change slightly with the contribution of copper.

Copper is an essential component of systems that make it possible to harness and transmit wind, solar and geothermal energy for applications such as home heating. There are approximately 180 pounds of copper in each all-electric vehicle. Tesla alone needed 45,000 tons in 2020. Entirely electric cars are in high demand worldwide due to the drastic reduction in fossil fuel the world needs.

In this scenario, income for the State would skyrocket. That would benefit tens of thousands of people who live in the communities near the project. In addition to its essential contribution to national socio-economic development, projects of this magnitude positively affect Panama’s reputation internationally. It’s in Panama’s best interest to be perceived as a country with a thriving economy, attractive for investments, and with a competitive offer that meets global quality standards.

COBRE PANAMA

 +1 416 361 6400  info@first-quantum.com @cobre_panama www.first-quantum.com

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Codelco Salvador:

CHILE’S NATIONAL CO EXPANDS THROUGH IT

Codelco, Chile’s National Copper Corp producer and one of Ch RESEARCH BY

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Fe

: Rajo Inca Project

OPPER CORPORATION TS SALVADOR DIVISION

poration, is the world’s leading copper hile’s largest companies

ernando Ruiz BUSINESS EXCELLENCE [ ISSUE 1496 ]

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odelco, Chile’s National Copper Corporation, is the world’s leading copper producer and one of Chile’s largest companies. The Codelco Salvador Division is located in the district of Diego de Almagro, in the Atacama Region. Its operations, which date back to 1959, are located in the Andes mountain range at 2,600 meters high, 1100 kilometers north of Santiago. This Division has been in operation since 1959 and has two types of deposits, the underground “Inca” mine and the open

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pit “Campamento Antiguo” and “Damiana Norte” mines. Salvador exploits oxidized and sulfurized minerals.

The main product of this Division is the electro-refined cathodes, electrowinning, and copper concentrate. Molybdenum, anode sludge, and sulfuric acid are also some of the main elements obtained. During 2015, Salvador Division brought 48,582 tons of refined copper.

Some of the company’s key suppliers are H-E Parts (equipment overhaul), Movitec S.A (earthmoving services, exploitation of deposits

CODELCO SALVADOR: RAJO INCA PROJECT

“The Rajo Inca Project gives Codelco access to another 796 million tonnes of mineral extends the operation until 2070”

and leasing of heavy machinery), Grupo Misecop SPA, MP Conveyor, JRI Ingeniería SA, DICAT UCSC, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción (geophysical measurements), FUCHS LUBRITECH Group, Enaex Chile (explosives).

A breath of fresh air The Rajo Inca Project is the Division’s main product. Mineral reserves at the mine were projected to be extinguished entirely this year, but the Rajo Inca Project project gives

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“This project will advance in recovering Codelco’s historical position as a hub for innovation and technology in Atacamas” Codelco access to another 796 million tonnes of mineral. It’s a lifesaving move that extends the operational continuity of the company until 2070. The latter is due to a radical change in the exploitation method, mainly carried out by underground mining. With the new approach, the Division will optimize processing infrastructure and extract copper ores in an open pit.

A leap in production indicators The company anticipates commercial production to begin in the second half of

2022 and aims to achieve a total production capacity (90,000 tonnes per year) in the first half of 2023. This means 50% more production of the remaining resources of the Indio Muerto deposit. The project has had an investment of US$1,383 million and will create 2,400 jobs in the busiest construction period. A 9% increase in employability is anticipated in the Atacama Region during its construction. Furthermore, a 3% increase in regional GDP during its operations is expected.

During the first semester of 2021, Codelco produced 796 thousand tons of refined copper,

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which meant an increase of 7% compared to the same period of 2020. In that period, the company left a surplus of US $ 3,675 million, ten times above the same indicator for the same period in the year before. In El Salvador (Chile), where Rajo Inca is located, there is evidence of mining activities since pre-Columbian times, when the area’s first inhabitants extracted copper from the hills.

Sustainability objectives Juan Benavides, President of the Board of Directors of Codelco, stated that “this project will advance in recovering Codelco’s historical position as a hub for innovation and technology in Atacama. With discipline, we will fulfill and enforce the commitments acquired”. Some of the commitments Mr. Benavides mentions have to do with hiring local labor for the construction and operation phases. There will also be a gender equality approach in project

Comprehensive service for large scale mining, DrillingLoading-Transportation Founded in 1974, Movitec has vast experience in earthmoving services, exploitation of deposits and leasing of heavy machinery, among others, in medium and large mining projects such as copper, gold, cement, nitrates and others.

E infomovitec@movitec.cl T 56-2-2371 80 52

www.movitec.cl

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CODELCO SALVADOR: RAJO INCA PROJECT

“We are building Codelco’s transformation on solid grounds that are accountable for the environment and nearby communities because we are aware of the climatic crisis that we are going through” operations, support for local entrepreneurs, and technical-professional internships for secondary students from neighboring communities.

“We are building Codelco’s transformation on solid grounds that are accountable for the environment and nearby communities because we are aware of the climatic crisis that we are going through. We are taking charge of our purpose as a company that strengthens the sustainable development of Chile and the world, with specific goals and defined deadlines, “said Mr. Benavides. That’s

why the company has committed to being carbon neutral by 2050 in an open letter signed by the presidents of companies that comprise the International Council of Mining and Metals (ICMM). The pledge is compliant with the purposes of the Paris Agreement and the facts exposed by the report issued last August by the Intergovernmental Group of Experts on Climate Change (IPCC). The Rajo Inca project will contribute to the fight against climate change with the minerals extracted.

Some of the other commitments Mr. Benavides mentions have to do with:

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1. Lowering carbon footprint: The company seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70%. They will do so by enabling a 100% clean energy matrix. The goal is to innovate by replacing all production and logistics equipment in underground mines with electrical equipment. The company has also pledged to actively participate in searching for new clean energy sources such as green hydrogen. Additionally, Codelco has

announced the target of zero net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 or earlier.

2. Lowering water footprint: Codelco seeks to reduce the unit consumption of continental waters by 60%. For this, they aim to decrease the use of fresh resources in operations. The company will also incorporate a desalination plant for the Northern District and reuse water from their dams.

“The company seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 70%. They will do so by enabling a 100% clean energy matrix”

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CODELCO SALVADOR: RAJO INCA PROJECT

3. Circular economy: Codelco will recycle 65% of industrial waste and 100% mining tires. The company will also increase the recycling of the main non-hazardous solid industrial waste from operations and projects, for example, steel, wood, packaging materials, organic waste, and scrap metal.

4. New standard in tailings deposits: Deposits with world-class security and sustainability measures. Codelco will monitor the physical and chemical stability of tailings deposits online with innovative systems and apply infiltration control systems.

5. Development of the territory with social value: The company has vowed to increase the goods and services provided by local suppliers by 60%. Additionally, Codelco will implement

a new integration strategy with the territory focusing on generating social value. They will promote the local workforce, strengthen mining education and increase territorial sustainability.

Rajo Inca is a project that’s efficient from a productive point of view, and also clean and sustainable from an environmental point of view. The overall objective behind all these actions is to create procedures that significantly mitigate negative impact, a critical trial for the mining industry as a whole.

CODELCO SALVADOR: RAJO INCA PROJECT

 +56 2 26903000  info@codelco.com @codelcochile www.codelco.com

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TRE

QUALITY ENERGY TRANSPO

Through electrical infrastructure the company transports reliable RESEARCH BY

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Gu

ECSA

ORTATION FOR GUATEMALA

e and state-of-the-art technology, e and safe energy to Guatemala.

ustavo Pittelli BUSINESS EXCELLENCE [ ISSUE 1496 ]

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TRECSA

ransportadora de Energía de Centroamérica S.A. –TRECSA– is a Guatemalan subsidiary of Grupo Energía Bogotá (GEB) which provides management, development, operation and maintenance services for energy transportation infrastructure. Through electrical infrastructure and state-of-the-art technology, the company transports reliable and safe energy to Guatemala.

Business Excellence magazine had the opportunity of interviewing Mr Mauricio Acevedo, General Manager of the company.

According to Mr Acevedo, “Trecsa carries out the development, operation, and maintenance of projects with integrity, guaranteeing the availability of our assets under high standards of Quality and Business Continuity.”

T

most important asset is their employees, as they are the engine that carries their energy. Connecting organizational goals with personal goals can probably be one of the biggest challenges for organizations.

However, it is not an impossible task”.

Trecsa is the largest operator of 230 kV lines in Guatemala, with 28 power substations. It has 1120 megawatts of power in operation and 692 kilometers of transmission lines that run through 17 of the 22 regions of the country. The latter provides direct development to 269,700 people with shared value projects that the company has executed in its areas of influence.

Trecsa has a higher purpose, which is to improve lives with sustainable and competitive energy. To achieve this purpose,

“Trecsa’s most important asset is their employees, as they are the engine that carries their energy” Trecsa’s history and values The company was established in 2010 to execute the Energy Transportation System Expansion Plan, PET-01-2009. The plan aimed to strengthen the country’s electrical system. Eleven years later, Trecsa is currently the most significant private energy transport company in the country. It has a market share of 28.8% because it has made multiple investments in energy projects based on the existing infrastructure.

“In Trecsa we have a simple, timely, and permanent process which allows us to know the needs and expectations of the population. For this reason, we have a team of social managers who know each community’s culture, language, traditions, customs, and leaders, which allows us to be close to the various stakeholders. Trecsa’s

the company uses a series of values that are their framework for action: 1. Teamwork with individual responsibility 2. Empathy 3. Life first 4. Focus on results 5.Integrity Aligning all of the company’s processes and procedures to their corporate values is paramount. It allows them to humanize the organization and connect Trecsa’s objectives with each individual who works for the company.

The company is also committed to equitable gender representation in all company processes, including decision-making. The aim is to have different ways of perceiving

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and interpreting reality, formulating problems and their decision alternatives, and reaching a consensus on the actions required.

Grupo Energía Bogotá, Trecsa’s mother company These core values are also a part of Grupo Energía Bogotá, Trecsa’s parent company.

Grupo Energía Bogotá (GEB) is a Latin American multinational company. They are leaders in the electrical power and natural gas sectors in Colombia, Peru, Guatemala, and Brazil.

GEB focuses on the growth and development of large companies in the territories where it operates. GEB’s strategy

“The company is also committed to equitable gender representation in all company processes, including decision-making”

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TRECSA

focuses on the large consumption centers in the region (Central America, Southeastern Brazil, and South Pacific). The group has developed three strategic business groups in these locations. They are Urban Energy Solutions, Interconnection for Market Development, and Low Emission Generation.

Trecsa fits into the Interconnection for Market Development business group, which seeks to connect significant energy sources to consumption centers through electric energy transmission lines and gas pipelines.

Did you know?

“GEB focuses on the growth and development of large companies in the territories where it operates. GEB’s strategy focuses on the large consumption centers in the region”

The effects of Covid-19 on Trecsa This leadership model was not exempt from the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in Guatemala. Trecsa put in place a series of elements to mitigate the effects of the crisis. The first key element was the timely activation of the Crisis Committee, which defined two necessary actions: 1. Preserving the lives of employees and contractors; 2. Guaranteeing the continuity of the electric power transmission ser vice, respec ting the dispositions of the President at all times.

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Electrical and Civil Engineering Experts Broad Experience

Professional Team

Maximum Quality

T: (502) -2204-0200 | E: cisma1@cismasa.com

cismasa.wixsite.com/cisma

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The Crisis Committee established twelve other protocols for attention and response to Covid-19. The goal was to take the most appropriate measures to contribute to the wellbeing of the employees and ensure business continuity. Furthermore, the Committee defined specific roles and responsibilities that provided the proper implementation and compliance with these protocols.

Electric energy is one industry that cannot stop providing its services with the standards, continuity, and quality established by law.

That’s why the company confirmed that the Electric Energy Transportation Operation Process is the most critical process for the organization. For this reason, they sought to keep it fully functional by activating the Backup Control Center. The latter is isolated

TRECSA

“The company established that the Electric Energy Transportation Operation Process is the most critical process for the organization”

from the rest of the central headquarters, protecting the lives of the control center operators.

By having clear roles, responsibilities and identifying the most critical process of the organization, the company was able to implement a holistic strategy for Covid19 alleviation. “In just one week, 68% of their employees were working from their homes. 24% continued in fieldwork related to maintaining lines and substations with their proper biological protection equipment. Only

8% had to go to the offices to attend the Control Center”. This was how the company ensured that our processes and services continued without interruption.

A company with environmental sustainability at its heart Regarding the company’s approach to environmental sustainability Mr Acevedo said their “commitment to the environment starts with an integrated management system policy. Trecsa declares our public commitment

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TRECSA

“At the moment, the company’s primary focus is the development of local suppliers” to the quality of customer service, the protection of life and health at work, care for the environment, and the strengthening of relations with the community”.

Mr Acevedo expands, stating before the development of each project, an exhaustive exercise of identification, evaluation, assessment of environmental aspects and impacts is carried out. All this to prevent pollution and protect the environment during the development of activities.

At the moment, the company’s primary focus is the development of local suppliers.

They also wish to continue to seek opportunities and investment from PET01-2009 infrastructure, and evaluate other projects in the Central American region.

“Our suppliers have grown in the development of their internal processes and procedures, of international standards, through the experience gained in our power transmission projects.” The truth is the impact of foreign investment in the energy transmission industry ultimately boosts the economy both in the area of influence of the projects and the local labor force. In other words, if Trecsa grows, so does the whole region.

TRECSA

 (502) 2312 3000  info@trecsa.com.gt @TrecsaGT www.trecsa.com.gt

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A NEW ERA FOR ZINC MINING Gamsberg Mine The Gamsberg Mine (‘Gamsberg’) is an open pit zinc and lead mine owned by Vedanta Zinc International (VZI), the world’s sixth largest diversified resources company ESEARCH BY

Eurides Lopes

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M

ining and South Africa go hand in hand. The country owes much of its development to its rich natural resources. And although mining’s contribution to national GDP is now a fraction of what it once was, it is still the eighth largest mining country in the world when production values are taken into consideration. Much of this production is in zinc, the output of the subject of this article, Gamsberg Mine, now

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the centerpiece of the world’s largest zinc mining and processing complex.

The Gamsberg Mine (‘Gamsberg’) is an open pit zinc and lead mine owned by Vedanta Zinc International (VZI), the world’s sixth largest diversified resources company.

The mine is one of two assets held by VZI in South Africa, the other being the nearby Black Mountain Mining. Business Excellence decided to take a deep dive into the latest

GAMSBERG MINE

“Significant zinc deposits were first discovered at Gamsberg fifty years ago, in 1972”

mining asset in a long line from Africa’s largest economy.

Background Significant zinc deposits were first discovered at Gamsberg fifty years ago, in 1972. However, it wasn’t until advancements in mining technology made the extraction of this deposit feasible again, over 40 years later, that interest discussions about its exploitation began

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MINOPEX Minopex operates and maintains the Gamsberg Concentrator for Vedanta Zinc International (VZI) in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa. Since 2018, Minopex has been involved in the plant commissioning and design upgrades, production planning, maintenance planning and shutdown maintenance to deliver a successful and sustainable operation.

The Minopex Gamsberg team share the vision of Vedanta’s project vision and work hand-in-hand to achieve targets, but the Gamsberg Project offers more potential than just exceptional returns, there is immense opportunity for socioeconomic development in this arid region. Minopex welcomes the chance to improve the living standards of the people in nearby communities by offering sustainable growth and empowerment.

About Minopex Minopex’s operational excellence and continued success is a result of over 25 years’ experience

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in the mining sector. Having established 46 process plants across 14 countries within Africa and the Middle East, Minopex is able to fast track the implementation of new projects, resulting in continued monthly production records. Our solutions are tailormade to suit our clients and we work together to achieve business objectives.

Minopex is a DRA Global group company. www.minopex.com

GAMSBERG MINE

“During the construction phase, the project employed over 1,500 locals, with 500 being permanently employed at the mine.” in earnest. In July 2015, construction at the mine commenced with the groundbreaking ceremony., and its first production began in March 2019.

Gamsberg has by now nearly its projected phase one ramp up to 250kt, and phases 2 and 3 will bring a combined 350kt extra, when completed by 2025. All of the capital work, which came in on budget at $400 million has been completed at the mine, and the concentrator is fully operational.

By the beginning of 2022, it is expected

that production will have increased by 20%, bringing the mine to production capacity.

Socio Economic Impact From the moment that the Gamsberg project was announced, it was heralded as a new dawn for South African mining, and not just because of its scale. At the outset, its management team placed an emphasis on youth training, gender diversity, safety and minimal environmental impact - not always easy for open pit mines.

During the construction phase, the project

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employed over 1,500 locals, with 500 being permanently employed at the mine.

On the environmental side, Gamsberg’s location in the ecologically sensitive Succulent Karoo Biome, places it right in the heart of one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots - home to more than 400 unique succulent plant species. Gamsberg’s parent company, VZI, committed to harvest almost 85,000 plants, which were relocated to other nurseries and botanical gardens. It also collected more than 300,000 seeds for storage in the Gamsberg nursery seedbank for future germination.

Covid-19 response The in-person and on-site nature of mining meant that the world’s largest mining companies were among the most diligent in putting Covid-19 protection measures in place. VZI was no different. This effort began with the immediate formation of the Vedanta Zinc International Covid19 Management Crisis Committee. which comprised labour representatives, a return to work medical assessment, and the compilation of a code of practice related to Covid-19 preventative measures.

A series of initiatives were rolled out to ensure the maximum safety of all staff. These included Covid-19 awareness and training, daily temperature screening of anybody entering the Gamsberg facilities, strict traveling procedures, and the provision and enforcement of protective and hygiene equipment. Against

“A project of Gamsberg’s scale is never short of a diverse range of partners and suppliers. It comes with the territory.”

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GAMSBERG MINE

the backdrop of an horrific pandemic, Gamsberg and VZI were not only able to increase mining production, but also do so without any casualties to the virus.

Partners and Suppliers A project of Gamsberg’s scale is never short of a diverse range of partners and suppliers. It comes with the territory. One of the differences with the Gamsberg projects and several others equally reputable - mines that Business Excellence has had the honour of reporting on, is that it has the luxury of calling on local experts. South Africa’s mining heritage means that it has an ecosystem of companies that provide all manner of miningrelated services.

Did you know?

A series of initiatives were rolled out to ensure the maximum safety of all staff.

These included Covid-19 awareness and training, daily temperature screening of anybody entering the Gamsberg facilities, strict traveling procedures, and the provision and enforcement of protective and hygiene equipment.

Examples of these local champions include Minopex, the mine’s operations contractor, OHMS (Open House Management Solutions) a geotechnical and seismological services provider, Basil Read, a local mining firm, ELB Construction, responsible for the design, supply, and installation of Gamsberg’s filter press, BB Cranes, which installed the overhead cranes, Viva Engineering who worked on many of the technical aspects of the mine, and last but not least, Oculus IP Architects, a firm from Cape Town responsible for the mine’s wireless network.

In terms of international partners and suppliers, several well-known names appear on the list. These include Portuguese firm Rangel Logistics Solutions,

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“VZI is also looking to South African renewable energy giant Eskom for increasing its sustainable electricity access.”

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GAMSBERG MINE

which carried out a large specialised road transportation from Johannesburg, German firm Liebherr Mining, New Zealand’s Luxsant Construction and Projects, Ferrada Blast from Italy, and finally, Mota-Engil Africa, awarded a contract worth €240 million for the preparation, excavation and transport at Gamsberg.

Projecting to the Future Despite its already impressive scale, Gamsberg may represent just the beginning of something much larger. In the short-term, this will involve increasing production to capacity. In the mid-term, parent company VZI has already stated its ambition to continue, and indeed accelerate, its exploration drilling efforts in the region. A zinc smelter is also in the works to complement the existing operations.

VZI is also looking to South African renewable energy giant Eskom for increasing its sustainable electricity access. Luckily for Gamsberg, the area in which it operates is rich in suitable natural renewable energy sources that it can use to power its operations.

At a time when the world needs zinc and sustainable energy more than ever, VZI and Gamsberg mine are pushing for both - truly heralding a new era for zinc mining.

GAMSBERG MINE

 +27 11 685 3960  info@vedanta-zincinternational.com @ZincVedanta www.vedanta-zincinternational.com

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A UNICORN COPPER MINING PROJECT Ivanhoe Mines: Kamoa-Kakula Project While Chile understandably receives much of the coverage around copper deposits, all too often it is forgotten that the DRC and Zambian copper belts represent the second largest reserves in the world.

RESEARCH BY

Eurides Lopes

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IVANHOE MINES: KAMOA-KAKULA PROJECT

here’s a very long and growing list of drivers for the global copper bull run over the past number of years, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) stands to be one of the big benefactors. While Chile understandably receives much of the coverage around copper deposits, all too often it is forgotten that the DRC and Zambian copper belts represent the second largest reserves in the world.

In total, the region possesses over 70 economic deposits of copper/cobalt, and thanks to the bull run, these are increasingly becoming an opportunity for the DRC to attract international investors. One of the latest projects in this area is the KamoaKakula mine, projected to be the world’s highest grade major copper mine. With phase

T

that everything significant in the country had already been discovered. How wrong they were.

A few months of exploration work just outside of Kolwezi revealed the Kamoa-Kakula mine; a project with an overwhelming upside, an highgrade copper orebody discovery almost the size of Manhattan in the first phase alone in a geologically beneficial setting, estimations expecting it to yield some 11 billion USD in five development phases over 40 years. The Initial production of copper concentrate at the Kakula Mine processing plant began on May 25, 2021 and commercial production began in July 1st 2021 - several months ahead of target.

Ivanhoe’s co-chairperson Robert Friedland in a recent statement said “This is a historic moment for Ivanhoe Mines and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Discovering and

“The Financial Times has said that, when finished, it could produce enough metal to satisfy over 5% of China’s annual demand” 2 of development now underway, Business Excellence decided the time was right to take a closer look.

Background Since the first rumblings of a project began, the Kamoa-Kakula mine has generated a stir.

Wood McKenzie has called it the biggest copper mine in African history, and the Financial Times has said that, when finished, it could produce enough metal to satisfy over 5% of China’s annual demand. Remarkably, however, Kamoa-Kakula wasn’t even on mining companies’ radar until just a few years ago.

The Kamoa-Kakula reserves were first discovered in 2007 when Ivanhoe Mines returned to the DRC after a few years away from the country. At that time, it was generally assumed

delivering a copper province of this scale, grade and outstanding ESG credentials, ahead of schedule and on budget, is a unicorn in the copper mining business. This accomplishment reflects the outstanding cooperation of thousands of individuals, and all of our jointventure partners at Kamoa-Kakula” Kakula is projected to be the world’s highest-grade major copper mine, with an initial mining rate of 3.8 Mtpa, ramping up to 7.6 Mtpa in Q3 2022. Phase 1 is expected to produce approximately 200,000 tonnes of copper per year, and phases 1 and 2 combined are forecast to produce approximately 400,000 tonnes of copper per year. Based on independent benchmarking, the project’s phased expansion scenario to 19 Mtpa would position Kamoa-Kakula as the world’s

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IVANHOE MINES: KAMOA-KAKULA PROJECT

second-largest copper mining complex, with peak annual copper production of more than 800,000 tonnes.

The first truck loads of copper concentrates for export departed from the mine on 17 July 2021, destined for smelters outside of the country. All output from the mine’s firstphase project will be sold through CITIC Metal Company Limited and China’s Zijin Mining Group as per previously arranged Construction works are progressing well for phase 2, and operations are projected to begin in the first half of 2022. As of late 2021, the focus is on earthworks and civil works, both of which are again, ahead of schedule - a testament to the 5,000-strong team involved in delivering the project.

Sustainability and Social Inclusion Despite its enormous scale, the KamoaKakula mine benefits from being a latest

NORMET

Normet’s Battery Electric Vehicles for improved safety, sustainability and productivity Normet launched their SmartDrive battery electric equipment offering in 2019 together with SmartScan, an advanced measuring and documenting system to measure and monitor the applied sprayed concrete thickness and SmartSpray automatic spray boom control system. Earlier this year, Normet launched the new EFNARC approved virtual reality concrete spraying training simulator and an upgrade to SmartScan system called Align, which is a georeferencing system for profile data allocation allowing the transformation of the profile data from the SmartScan’s local coordinate system into any coordinate system used in surveying.

instant torque and efficient operation without any local emissions. The fully reversible 4WD ensures safe and sure movement in difficult underground conditions. Normet SmartDrive equipment enables higher productivity, lower operating costs and most importantly; zero local emissions.

We will be expanding our SmartDrive offering to cover all the size classes. Stay tuned for Normet’s future developments. +27 11 823 8100 www.normet.com

Normet SmartDrive architecture includes the latest Li-ion battery technology with fast-charging capability. High-torque electric motors provide

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PACE VALVES Since it’s inception 40 years ago, PACE VALVES has concentrated on tendering for and executing project orders for valves, actuators and ancillary equipment. The company has enjoyed a good degree of success in this field due to the inherent technical and sales expertise of incumbent staff spanning a combined total of 150 years as well as a comprehensive local and international product sourcing network. We have recently become official distributors within Africa for both Proeger Flow Solutions (Australia) as well as DSS Valves (America), thus enabling us to offer an even wider range of specialised high pressure valves for severe service applications.

PACE VALVES’s strength lies in the ability to identify customers bottom line plant operational requirements, and to provide a ‘fit-for-purpose’ product package, no matter how diverse the plant specification may be. PACE VALVES has been working closely with Kamoa Copper since 2018 and has developed a strong supplier relationship

with them. We have provided both technical and product support throughout the plant, on both high and low pressure applications. Our areas of expertise and product offering have particularly assisted Kamoa in installing state of the art High Pressure Severe Service Valves to their Paste Backfill Processes.

PACE VALVES is involved in a broad crosssection of industry, including chemical, petrochemical, mining, minerals processing, power generation and water treatment. We pride ourselves with our attention to detail, after sales service and quickness to respond to all enquiries.

PACE’s in-house technical personnel are available at short notice to attend site meetings in order to help resolve any operational issues which may arise. Customer focus is our main priority and sets us apart from the rest. www.pacevalves.co.za

A comprehensive service provider of industrial valves High / Low Pressure Valves • Severe Service Environment • Paste Backfill • Minerals Processing • Water Treatment • Local / International Supply

#WeSetThePACE

Tel: +27 (0)11 452 6826 Email: enq@pacevalves.co.za Web: www.pacevalves.co.za

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IVANHOE MINES: KAMOA-KAKULA PROJECT

“The mine’s sophisticated design enables it to incorporate the use of backfill, so that the tailings footprint will be significantly smaller than mines of a similar size built in the past”

generation mine with impressive credentials in sustainability. The mine is being powered by clean and renewable hydro-generated electricity, and is forecast to be one of the copper industry’s lowest greenhouse gas emitters per unit of metal product.

Furthermore, parent company Ivanhoe mines has committed to achieving net-zo operational GHG at Kamoa-Kakula.

Fur thermore, as an underground pit, Kamoa-Kakula avoids most of the disruption that we tend to associate with open pits. The mine’s sophisticated

design enables it to incorporate the use of backfill, so that the tailings footprint will be significantly smaller than mines of a similar size built in the past. Little wonder that as well as being the world’s biggest producer of high grade copper, Kamoa-Kakula now produces what industry analysts call ‘the world’s greenest copper.’

Outside of environmental concerns, the mine is also making serious strides. With around 7,800 people currently working on phase 1 and 2 combined, Kamoa-Kakula is now the biggest employer in the area. Further,

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IVANHOE MINES: KAMOA-KAKULA PROJECT

“Outside of environmental concerns, the mine is also making serious strides. With around 7,800 people currently working on phase 1 and 2 combined, Kamoa-Kakula is now the biggest employer in the area” its 2020 sustainability report shows that 96 of these are involved in training programs aimed at promoting them from their roles, and that there are over 400 community beneficiaries in training programs of some kind led by the mine.

On the issue of community, the presence of the DRC government among the mine’s major shareholders means that every Congolese national stands to benefit to some degree from the mine. Locally, too, the mine’s management is keen to promote local empowerment and

has a number of business initiatives in the area to generate employment and income, including fish farming and business training opportunities for women.

Covid-19 and its (Minimal) Impact Let us recall for a moment that work on phase 1 of Kamoa-Kakula was delivered ahead of schedule, and that phase 2 is currently running ahead of schedule. These statistics are impressive on their own, but are eye-opening in the context of the ongoing

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Covid-19 pandemic. This effort began with large-scale testing and focused preventative measures, ensuring that positive cases were quickly identified, isolated and treated.

The mine also secured an initial supply of 1,000 dosages of the AstraZeneca vaccine for its employees, contractors, and high-risk members of local communities. The company has also developed an on-site Covid-19 isolation facility, allowing at-risk employees to isolate, test, and receive treatment. And of course, the company has implemented the strictest procedures around wearing face masks, frequent hand washing, and contacttracing measures.

Supply Partners Partnership is written in the DNA of the KamoaKakula project - it could not have gotten off the mark without the participation of several players, both local and international. The parent

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IVANHOE MINES: KAMOA-KAKULA PROJECT

“The mine also secured an initial supply of 1,000 dosages of the AstraZeneca vaccine for its employees, contractors, and high-risk members of local communities” company’s shareholder structure is composed of Ivanhoe Mines (39.6%), Ivanhoe Mines (39.6%), Zijin Mining Group (39.6%), Crystal River Global Limited (0.8%) and the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (20%).

To begin with, the extensive range of underground mining equipment employed on site is provided by well-known Epiroc (Sweden) and Sandvik. Austruct (Australia) handled the fabrication, Normet contributed its battery electric vehicles contributing to the mines safety and sustainability goals, T3 Projects was tasked with the provision of electrical, control and instrumentation works for the concentrator and backfill plant.

PACE Valves -Process and Allied Contracting Equipment (South Africa) added state of the art High Pressure Severe Service Valves to Kamoa’s Paste Backfill Processes. Nerin Engineering (china) was awarded the basic engineering contract for a direct-to-blister flash smelter, and Metso Outotec (Finland) is responsible for its environmental smelter technology. Finally, the EPCM contract went to Enfi Engineering Corp. (China) and DRA Global (Australia) was awarded the contract to conduct basic engineering services for the mine. And Standard Bank (South Africa) served as the lead arranger of funding for the project as well

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Did you know?

Partnership is written in the DNA of the Kamoa-Kakula project - it could not have gotten off the mark without the participation of several players, both local and international. The parent company’s shareholder structure is composed of Ivanhoe Mines (39.6%), Ivanhoe Mines (39.6%), Zijin Mining Group

“Even Ivanhoe Mining’s CEO admits that he’s excited about where the unexplored territories that remain in the DRC might lead the company”

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(39.6%), Crystal River Global Limited (0.8%) and the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (20%).

IVANHOE MINES: KAMOA-KAKULA PROJECT

Other notable partners include Kongo River who has been providing civil works and bulk earthworks on the mine. Sotrafer SARL, Cegelec RDC, African Mining Service, Mining Contracting Services Congo, JTC Building Systems, Tractafric Equipment, Rare Congo SARL, Minequip and Golder Associates Africa just to mention a few.

The Future The future for Kamoa-Kakula is hard to project - in the best possible sense. Even Ivanhoe Mining’s CEO admits that he’s excited about where the unexplored territories that remain in the DRC might lead the company.

Nobody predicted the wealth of copper that Kamoa-Kakula would yield. Perhaps a good place to start here is finishing Phase 2 in H1 2022, and then beginning work on Phase 3 shortly afterwards.

One of the key takeaways here, though, is not that Kamoa-Kaula is yielding so much copper. It is that it is doing so on a much more sustainable basis than would have been possible even a decade ago. All too often, this part of the world is castigated for its continued use of coal to generate power. Through its use of hydro power, Kamoa-Kakula exhibits at first hand the commitment by the DRC government to create a more sustainable future for its people.

IVANHOE MINES: KAMOA-KAKULA PROJECT

 +1-604-688-6630  info@ivanhoemines.com @headerfolio www.ivanhoemines.com

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