Rosh Pinah Zinc (RPZ) and Appian Capital Advisory Limited have commissioned a new paste fill plant at the Rosh Pinah mine, marking a key milestone in the RP2.0 expansion project as construction progresses beyond 85% completion.
The companies said the facility, the first commissioned paste backfill operation in Namibia, forms a critical component of the expansion programme aimed at improving underground mining efficiency, reducing dilution and lowering the volume of tailings deposited on surface, while supporting improved ore recovery.
RPZ said the RP2.0 expansion, which will nearly double the mine’s processing throughput to 1.3 million tonnes per year, remains on schedule and within budget. Completion of construction is expected in the third quarter of 2026, with ramp-up to follow shortly thereafter.
General Manager Alex Mayrick said the commissioning represents another major step forward for the project.
“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,” Mayrick said.
He added that ongoing exploration activities were delivering encouraging results, reinforcing the long-term growth potential of the operation as the company seeks to extend the mine’s life.
Ignacio Bustamante, Head of Base Metals at Appian, said the new facility demonstrates RPZ’s ability to deliver on key project milestones while strengthening the mine’s operational base.
“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,” Bustamante said.
The RP2.0 expansion includes further development of underground infrastructure, including a newly developed portal and decline to access extended underground deposits, as well as the construction of new surface facilities such as processing infrastructure, 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 replacement of in-house diamond drill rigs and more than 80 kilometres of drilling through 2027, covering infill, step-out and regional exploration.
RPZ said results to date have been encouraging, supporting the potential for further resource expansion and long-term value creation beyond the RP2.0 project.
Rosh Pinah Zinc operates an underground zinc-lead mine in south-western Namibia and has been in continuous operation since 1969, producing concentrates containing zinc, lead and silver. The operation was acquired by Appian in June 2023.
