Mining site

Etoile

Chemaf copper-cobalt operation near Lubumbashi. Its processing plant was reported shut on 29 July 2026.

Sources support the description and the individual connections below. Publication and checking dates refer to the evidence, not a guarantee of current operations.

Documented relationships

Reported means the cited source describes the relationship at its evidence date. Historical relationships refer to an earlier period. Announced agreements may not have been implemented. None of these labels confirms that trade continues today.

  • Reported · Evidence as of 2022-01-19

    Operates

    The January 2022 announcement identified Chemaf as operator of the Etoile assets receiving processing expansion finance.

    1 source
    1. Shalina Resources concludes financing and marketing transaction with Trafigura

      Trafigura · Published 2022-01-19 · Checked 2026-09-16

      The agreements also provide for the marketing by Trafigura of all the cobalt hydroxide produced from these assets operated by Chemaf,

      Press release paragraphs 1–5 and About Shalina Resources; assets identified as Mutoshi and Etoile in paragraph 2.

  • Reported · Evidence as of 2026-07-29

    Operates

    Chemaf retains the Etoile operation; the plant was reported shut in July 2026. OPERATES identifies responsibility, not active production.

    4 sources
    1. Etoile Mine

      Chemaf · Checked 2026-09-16

      Etoile is one of the largest open-cast copper-cobalt mining operations in the DRC.

      Etoile Mine overview

    2. Completion of acquisition of the CHEMAF Group by Virtus Lloyds Minerals Holding

      Lloyds Metals and Energy · Published 2026-03-30 · Checked 2026-09-16

      VLMH has completed the acquisition 100% equity stake of the CHEMAF Group Limited

      PDF p1 completion and Cayman incorporation; pp3–5 acquired group, Chemaf SA, Etoile operating and Mutoshi construction; p4 designated operator LMEL.

    3. US-backed DRC miner strikes deal to cut debt

      Semafor · Published 2026-07-29 · Checked 2026-09-16

      The miner remains out of production, with Etoile, its main operating plant near Lubumbashi, still shut

      Know More, final paragraph. Earlier paragraph describes unfinished Mutoshi. Independent reporter reviewed company documents and interviewed workers’ union.

    4. Congo (Kinshasa): 2024 mineral industry report

      USGS · Checked 2026-09-16

      Kamoto Copper Co., a joint venture between Katanga Mining Ltd. (a subsidiary of Glencore plc.) and Gécamines

      2024 Report > Commodity Review > Cobalt and Copper, paragraphs by operator