Rio Tinto has approved an investment of about R8.5 billion in the Zulti South project at its Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) operation in South Africa.
Image: File
Rio Tinto has approved an investment of about R8.5 billion in the Zulti South project at its Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) operation in South Africa, lifting a suspension that has been in place since January 2020.
The project was originally halted due to escalating security concerns, community unrest and operational disruptions in KwaZulu-Natal, including violent attacks, arson and damage to company property that affected RBM’s mining operations and led to the declaration of force majeure at the time.
Rio Tinto said on Tuesday the investment would extend the life of mine to 2050 and secure the long-term supply of zircon, rutile and ilmenite, key feedstocks for titanium dioxide production.
RBM currently mines within the Zulti North lease area, which includes a mineral separation plant and smelting facility. As the Zulti North orebody declines, Zulti South is expected to provide operational continuity and support titanium dioxide (TiO₂) sales over the remaining life of the mine.
“Lifting the suspension on Zulti South means securing the future of RBM,” said Werner Duvenhage, managing director of Rio Tinto Iron & Titanium Africa Operations and RBM.
“This project is not about expansion; it represents our commitment to sustaining jobs and continuing to make a meaningful contribution to the province, the country, and the host communities. The decision to proceed also reflects improved security conditions and strengthened community partnerships. The support of government, Amakhosi and host communities has been vital in getting us where we are today and establishing this stability. We are committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure the project’s continued success.”
Construction is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2026 and will take approximately 30 months, with first commercial production targeted for the fourth quarter of 2028. The initial phase will support zircon and ilmenite production, with a second phase forming part of the long-term development plan.
Rio Tinto has appointed China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) as engineering, procurement and construction contractor, citing its track record on large-scale projects including the Simandou iron ore development in Guinea.
Wu Di, vice president of CHEC, said the company was committed to delivering the project safely and in alignment with local content and community development commitments.
RBM, in which Rio Tinto holds a majority stake, is one of the largest mineral sands producers globally and a significant employer in KwaZulu-Natal.
BUSINESS REPORT