Name of the Project
Tshipi Borwa manganese mine expansion project.

Location
The Kalahari Manganese Field (KMF), in South Africa’s Northern Cape province.

Project Owner/s
Jupiter Mines.

Project Description
The Tshipi Borwa manganese mine expansion project concept study has been com­pleted, with a comprehensive feasibility study expected to start soon.

The feasi­bility study will be based on a production pro­file of 4.5-million tonnes (base case) – a 50% increase on the current three-million-tonne production level.

This is based solely on ore reserves, with probable ore reserves at 52% and proved ore reserves at 48%. Subject to the completion of the feasibility study and commercial process, with both expected to collectively take one year, Tshipi could reach steady-state exports of 4.5-million tonnes in three years.

Potential Job Creation
Not stated.

Net Present Value/Internal Rate of Return
Not stated.

Capital Expenditure
Total capital expenditure required for the expan­sion is estimated at R1.025-billion.

Planned Start/End Date
Not stated.

Latest Developments
Jupiter has reported that production and exports from its Tshipi Borwa manganese mine remain on track, despite the project tracking behind schedule.

The company has said that overall mining volumes during the quarter ended August were below plan, as a result of continued delays in mobilising additional equipment because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The mine has also been issued with a Section 54 notice by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy pertaining to drilling and blasting activities, some pit haul roads, and mining of the barrier pillar.

Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
None stated.

Contact Details for Project Information
Jupiter Mines, tel +61 8 9346 5500 or email info@jupitermines.com.