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Tsumeb, Namibia, December 15, 2025, 9:30 a.m. local time, Sinomine Tsumeb Mining Holding (Proprietary) Limited (hereinafter referred to as the “Tsumeb Mining”) held a commissioning ceremony for the rotary kiln of Phase I of its Polymetallic Comprehensive Recovery Project, marking the official start of operations.
The commissioning of this project represents a major milestone in the transformation of the century-old smelter into a modern, green, and integrated polymetallic recycling hub. Once fully operational, the project is expected to create nearly 400 local jobs and establish a new benchmark for regional industrial upgrading and circular resource utilization.
The ceremony was attended by Hon. Mathews Hangula, Member of Parliament of Namibia; Hofni Hamunyela, Mayor of Tsumeb; representatives from project partners AURISE and construction contractor SEIKO, as well as employee representatives of the Tsumeb Mining.
Mr. Lou Yonggang, General Manager of the Tsumeb Mining, stated that Sinomine Resource Group is firmly advancing the strategic upgrade of the facility. The Phase I rotary kiln project, which has an annual processing capacity of 80,000 tonnes of slag, represents a critical first step in the broader polymetallic recovery initiative.
The full project is planned with a total investment of approximately USD 222 million, designed to process 200,000 tonnes of slag annually upon full completion. At full capacity, the project is expected to produce 33 tonnes of germanium ingots, 11 tonnes of industrial-grade gallium, and 10,900 tonnes of zinc ingots per year, enabling the efficient recovery of strategic metals such as germanium, gallium, and zinc.
Beyond the recovery of valuable metals from historical slag, the project places strong emphasis on environmental protection and sustainable development. It aligns closely with Namibia’s Sixth National Development Plan as well as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production).
By adopting green processing technologies and integrating supporting photovoltaic power projects, Sinomine Resource Group aims to position the Tsumeb Mining as a flagship site for green mining and clean production, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable industrial future for Namibia.
Going forward, Tsumeb Mining will continue to work closely with local government authorities, project partners, and surrounding communities to advance the overall construction and development of the project. The initiative is expected to deliver long-term economic opportunities for the region and establish Tsumeb as a leading center for critical metals recycling and sustainable industrial production, injecting lasting momentum into Namibia’s economic growth and industrial transformation.
