ESG in action: the story of a lake, a tree, and Chinese mining in Africa
A Lake, A Tree, and a Lesson in Shared Growth
For Chinese mining companies in Africa, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles are not just a slogan—they are central to operational planning and long-term viability. While technology and management provide the foundation, it is the commitment to mutual development that enables these projects to truly take root.
Rerouting a River to Build a Future Together
In the dense jungle of Kolwezi, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the China Molybdenum KFM copper-cobalt mine was developed in just over two years—from acquisition in December 2020 to trial production by the end of 2022. While this speed is notable, the deeper story lies in how ESG planning was integrated in the first place during early stages of this project.
Next to the mining camp, a preserved forest and a man-made reservoir known as “Golden Mountain Lake” reflect this mindset. The lake was created when the mining company diverted a river that originally flowed over the ore body.
“We had to change the riverway, but we wanted to do it right,” explained a KFM geology team member. “We considered factors like once-in-50-year floods and impacts on upstream and downstream villages.”
The final plan rerouted the river 6.4 kilometres and involved building a 485-meter-long dam. Surveying the dense forest was challenging—there were no roads, and the team relied on local guides to navigate. Early engagement with nearby villages led to another community benefit: a new water reservoir built with water from mine dewatering wells, providing a reliable and clean water source.
“KFM, friend! China, friend!” locals now proudly claim when fetching water.
“From the beginning, we aimed to set an industry benchmark in ESG,” said Liang Wei, Vice President of China Molybdenum. The river diversion became more than engineering—it became a bridge with the community.
Similar efforts are underway elsewhere. In Likasi, DRC, Pengxin Resources CAPM renovated over 10 kilometres of municipal roads and upgraded power facilities, supporting both community needs and mining operations.
When a Tree Stands in the Way
At Hainan Mining’s Mali project, managers faced a different test. A large tree stood directly in the path of a planned transport road.
“A young engineer suggested transplanting it to save time and cost,” said Cai Yusheng, the Mali Project Manager. “But we learned it was a sacred tree where locals hold rituals and communicate with ancestors.”
The company decided to reroute the road. “Efficiency matters, but respect is essential. Once trust is broken, it’s hard to rebuild,” Cai said.
That respect extends to social initiatives. In 2022, CAPM donated supplies to 300 elderly and children in an informal settlement and converted a dormitory area into low-cost housing, maintaining facilities despite costs exceeding rental income.
Wang Hetao, Director of Changjiang Securities Research, notes that while Western mining firms still lead in high-grade assets and ESG systems, Chinese companies are learning quickly, combining their operational efficiency with growing attention to sustainability.
Safety as a Non-Negotiable
But some principles are not flexible. At the Mali site, Cai enforces strict safety rules like requiring protective boots after finding workers in sandals.
“We made it mandatory. At the same time, we had local foremen explain why safety gear matters,” he said. “Being strict about safety is a form of respect for life.”
The same approach applies off-site: when the company noticed villagers struggling for water, it built a storage dam. It also donated tractors to support local farming.
This balance, flexibility on culture, firmness on safety and quality, reflects the broader strategy of Chinese mining firms in Africa. It’s a practice-led approach to ESG, where grand principles are put to work through concrete details.