The flagship event of the mining sector, Investing in African Mining Indaba, is now in its third day.
Speaking on one of the panels on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, John Woto, Deputy General Manager of Tenke Fungurume Mining (TFM), highlighted the company’s major achievements that demonstrate its commitment to responsible mining for a better world.
Tenke Fungurume Mining SA (TFM SA) is one of the largest producers of copper and cobalt, with its mines and processing facilities located in the African Copperbelt in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
According to John Woto, several key achievements prove that TFM is leading the way in responsible mining:
1. First Company in Africa to Receive The Copper Mark Certification
TFM is the first company in Africa to obtain The Copper Mark certification for 2024. This prestigious certification recognizes its responsible production practices.
The Copper Mark is a leading assurance framework launched in 2020 to meet the growing global demand for responsible sourcing and production. It promotes responsible practices across the value chains of copper, molybdenum, nickel, and zinc.
The certification verifies that each facility meets stringent requirements for responsible production, covering key environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria.
2. Pioneering Local Community Investment
TFM was the first company to inspire the allocation of 0.3% of mining companies’ revenue toward local community development, even before the Mining Code made this a legal requirement. TFM had already launched its “DOT TFM” initiative, dedicating funds to community projects.
Some key projects under this initiative include:
- Construction of a 200m³ water tower with a 207m-deep well connected to the existing network.
- Epidemic control measures, including the distribution of 120,000 second-generation mosquito nets to combat malaria.
- Capacity building for healthcare workers in the Fungurume health zone.
- Road infrastructure improvements, including 4.3 km of paved roads in Fungurume.
- Construction of an Institute of Applied Technology and a 200-bed general hospital.
TFM also collaborates with the local government and provincial mining authorities to ensure these funds are directed toward projects that benefit the community.
3. Recognition by the World Customs Organization
In January 2024, during the International Customs Day event in Kinshasa, the World Customs Organization awarded Tenke Fungurume Mining S.A. a Certificate of Merit for its outstanding contributions to the international customs community.
TFM was recognized as the highest-paying economic operator in duties and taxes for 2023. By fulfilling its tax obligations and other contributions to the Congolese state, TFM has significantly contributed to the country’s economic growth.
4. Job Creation and Workforce Development
TFM currently provides nearly 20,000 direct and indirect jobs, with a strong emphasis on hiring local talent.
Outlook for 2025
Looking ahead, John Woto announced that TFM aims to optimize its existing operations to boost production.
“TFM already operates a 10,000-ton-per-day plant, another 11,000-ton plant, as well as 15,000-ton and 30,000-ton plants,” he stated.
With these developments, TFM continues to set the benchmark for responsible and sustainable mining in Africa.
