In early 2026, the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex in the DRC is moving toward the formalization of its Phase 4 expansion. While Phase 3 is already in operation, Phase 4 is a strategic “next step” designed to replicate the success of the current facilities.
Phase 4 expansion details
The Phase 4 expansion is planned as a direct duplicate of the Phase 3 concentrator. It is expected to add 6.5 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of processing capacity. Once fully integrated, this will push the complex’s total processing capacity to approximately 20–21 Mtpa. An updated life-of-mine plan and a specific expansion scenario for Phase 4 are scheduled for completion by the end of Q1 2026.
Critical production milestones (Q1 2026)
Several foundational milestones were hit in late 2025 and early 2026 that enable the Phase 4 scale-up:
- Smelter success: the on-site copper smelter (the largest in Africa) produced its first copper anodes in December 2025. It is currently ramping up to its 500,000-tonne-per-annum capacity. This allows the mine to process the extra volume from Phase 4 locally rather than exporting raw concentrate.
- Mine dewatering: following flooding in 2025, stage 2 dewatering was completed in January 2026. This has reopened access to high-grade ore zones (3.5% to 4.0% copper) in the Kakula West area, ensuring there is enough high-quality “feed” for the expanded plants.
- Project 95: this parallel optimization project is on track for completion in Q2 2026. It aims to boost copper recovery rates at the Phase 1 and 2 plants to 95%, providing an immediate production lift while Phase 4 construction begins.
2026 and 2027 outlook
| Year | Projected copper production | Key driver |
| 2026 | 380,000 – 420,000 tonnes | Stabilization and Smelter ramp-up |
| 2027 | 500,000 – 540,000 tonnes | Full Phase 3/4 integration |
Why this is “critical”?
The 2026 milestones represent the transition from a “recovery phase” (following the 2025 flooding) to a “growth phase.” By hitting these targets, the project remains on its trajectory to become the world’s third-largest copper mining complex, with ultimate production goals exceeding 800,000 tonnes of copper per year.
