RIO Tinto has made a decisive vote of confidence in KwaZulu-Natal’s mining future, approving a R8.5 billion investment in Zulti South, lifting the five-year suspension at Richards Bay Minerals (RBM).
The project will extend RBM’s operations to 2050, securing a stable supply of zircon, rutile and ilmenite as Zulti North declines, while safeguarding jobs, supporting export revenues, and reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to host communities. Construction is set to begin in Q1 2026, with first production expected in late 2028.
RBM currently operates within the Zulti North lease area, which includes a mineral separation plant and smelting facility. As the orebody at Zulti North declines, Zulti South is important to RBM for maintaining a stable supply of zircon, rutile, and ilmenite and supporting TiO₂ sales over the life of the mine.
In a media statement, the company said China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) has been appointed as the EPC contractor for the construction of Zulti South due to their proven performance and strong track record including a strategic partnership with Rio Tinto on the Simandou project in Guinea, where they demonstrated successful delivery of complex EPC scopes, compliance with HSEC standards, rapid mobilisation, integration of global expertise with local execution, and a firm commitment to localisation, community engagement, and supplier development.
Werner Duvenhage, managing director of Rio Tinto Iron & Titanium Africa Operations & RBM said: “Lifting the suspension on Zulti South means securing the future of 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,” he said.
“CHEC’s successful track record at Simandou, along with their established presence on the continent including South Africa, gives us confidence in their ability to deliver Zulti South safely, efficiently, and in alignment with our community and local content commitments.”
Wu Di, vice president, VP China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) said: “We are honoured to be chosen as Rio Tinto’s strategic execution partner for Zulti South. Our relationship is founded on trust, performance, and shared values. We are committed to delivering a project that strengthens RBM’s future and benefits local communities.”
Construction is anticipated to commence in Q1 2026 and will take 30 months to be completed with initial commercial production expected in Q4 2028. This first phase will support RBM’s supply of zircon and ilmenite, while the second phase will follow as part of the long-term development strategy.
