Mozambique's Moma Titanium Mine Continues Operations Amid Protests

Moma Titanium Mine

Kenmare Resources confirms that operations at its Moma titanium mine in northern Mozambique are ongoing, despite national protests following the October elections.

Mozambique-based mining company Kenmare Resources has confirmed that its Moma Titanium Mine in Nampula province, northern Mozambique, is continuing normal operations despite nationwide protests in response to the country's controversial 9 October general election results.

Operations Unaffected Amid Protests

The protests, which erupted after the announcement of the election results, have primarily been fueled by opposition claims of election fraud. Daniel Chapo of the ruling Frelimo party was declared the winner of the election with 71% of the vote, according to reports from Amnesty International. Venancio Mondlane, the leader of the opposition, who secured 20% of the vote, called for nationwide protests. These protests have been met with a heavy security presence, which has reportedly helped to calm the situation over the past weekend.

Despite the unrest, Kenmare Resources assured stakeholders that operations at the Moma mine have not been disrupted. The company has been taking preventative measures to safeguard its personnel and the integrity of its facilities, although no employees have been evacuated. Senior management remains on-site, and Kenmare continues to monitor the situation closely.

Moma Mine's Role in Global Titanium Supply

The Moma Titanium Mine is one of the largest producers of heavy mineral concentrates in the world, with a focus on producing titanium feedstocks such as ilmenite. The mine plays a crucial role in supplying raw materials for the global titanium industry, which is essential for a wide range of applications, including aerospace, automotive, and electronics manufacturing.

Kenmare’s operations at Moma include the extraction and processing of titanium-rich ores, which are then processed to produce feedstocks that support global titanium production. Despite the political instability in Mozambique, the mine’s operations continue to supply a steady output of these critical minerals.

Political Context and Industry Impact

The protests following the election results have raised concerns about the political stability of the region and the potential impact on mining operations. However, Kenmare Resources has reassured investors and stakeholders that there has been no disruption to its operations at the Moma site. The company’s proactive measures to ensure the safety of its staff and facilities have helped to maintain stability in its mining activities.

The Moma Mine is a key asset for Kenmare, and its continued operation is vital not only for the company but also for the broader titanium industry, which is heavily reliant on stable production and consistent supply.

Conclusion

Despite the protests that have unfolded in Mozambique following the election results, Kenmare Resources has successfully kept its Moma Titanium Mine operational. The company’s vigilance in monitoring the situation and taking necessary precautions underscores its commitment to both safety and maintaining a steady supply of titanium feedstocks. With a heightened security presence, the situation in Mozambique appears to be under control for now, ensuring that Kenmare’s mining operations remain unaffected.