New Botswana copper mine to begin production in 2021

Kumba Iron Ore reported a 4 per cent increase in overall production in the first quarter that ended March 31, 2018.

Namibia may scrap requirements for black ownership in mining as it seeks to woo investors to an industry that is rebounding with the commodities cycle.

The appeal will add a layer of uncertainty to a sector battered for years by depressed prices, soaring costs and opaque policies.

Gecamines said on Tuesday that debts owed by Kamoto to Glencore and its subsidiaries at the end of 2017 topped $9 billion.

The announcement is the last of a string of difficulties Anglo has faced with the iron ore mine, which was expected to produce 16 million tonnes this year, but that will now generate just 3 million tonnes.

Company said new technology will help the DRC mine achieve its 2018 production guidance of 730,000 ounces, despite challenges posed by the country's new mining code.

The UK miner, which is the world's top coloured gems producer, is also adopting a new technology to further drive transparency in the sector.

Katanga is mired in difficulties ranging from the prospect of higher taxes to a mounting legal battle with its Congolese partner, Gecamines.

High levels of debt at mining companies are becoming an increasingly heated issue in Congo, the world’s largest source of cobalt.