Rosh Pinah Zinc (RPZ) and Appian Capital Advisory Limited (the investment adviser to long-term value-focused private capital funds) have announced the commissioning of the new paste fill plant – a critical component of the RP2.0 expansion project.
RP2.0, which will nearly double RPZ’s mine’s processing throughput to 1.3 million tonnes per year, continues to advance on schedule and on budget, with overall construction progress now surpassing 85%. Completion is expected in Q3 2026, with ramp-up commencing shortly thereafter.
The commissioning of Namibia’s first paste backfill plant marks a significant milestone for RPZ and the country’s mining industry. The facility allows safe and efficient backfilling of underground stopes, reducing mining dilution, decreasing the volume of tailings deposited at surface and enabling improved ore recovery. RPZ has invested in training and developing the local workforce to operate and maintain the plant, further helping to embed durable technical expertise within the country.
The RP2.0 expansion project comprises further development of the underground mine, including a newly developed portal and decline to access extended underground deposits, enabling efficient extraction of ore from current and future orebodies on strike and down dip, as well as the construction of new surface facilities, including new paste fill, processing (including a new SAG mill) and water treatment plants.
In parallel, RPZ is undertaking an extensive diamond drilling programme aimed at expanding its mineral resource base and extending the mine’s Life of Mine. The programme includes the capital replacement of in-house diamond drill rigs and more than 80km of drilling through 2027, encompassing infill, step-out and regional exploration drilling. Results to date have been encouraging, reinforcing the opportunity for further resource expansion and long-term value creation beyond RP2.0.
Alex Mayrick, general manager of Rosh Pinah Zinc, comments: “Commissioning the paste fill plant represents another major step forward for RP2.0. These facilities enhance the efficiency and sustainability of our operations. With construction now more than 85% complete, we are firmly on track, on schedule and on budget to deliver the RP2.0 expansion safely and responsibly.
“In parallel, our exploration programme is delivering encouraging results, reinforcing the strong growth potential of RPZ as we continue to build a larger, longer life operation.”
Ignacio Bustamante, head of Base Metals at Appian, adds: “The commissioning of the paste fill plant demonstrates RPZ’s ability to execute on key milestones and deliver modern, sustainable infrastructure. This achievement further strengthens RPZ’s operational foundation as we approach the final phases of construction. The ongoing exploration success highlights the upside potential beyond RP2.0, supporting long-term value creation for all stakeholders.”