Despite encountering challenges in the construction of a second ruby processing plant (PP2) at its Mozambique-based Montepuez Ruby Mining (MRM) operation, coloured gemstone miner and marketer Gemfields reports that construction of the plant remains on track for completion before the end of the first half of this year.

The MRM operation is naturally impacted by periods of lower production of premium rough rubies as a result of the natural variability of the geological conditions where the rubies are mined, and this scenario has been observed in recent months.

“Each coloured gemstone is unique and, although geological methods can help identify areas where both emeralds and rubies should be found, currently there can be no certainty on the quantity, quality or value of such gemstones, until they are brought to the surface and processed,” Gemfields states.

However, the company notes that the relative lack of premium production at MRM could be addressed by the completion of PP2, which is set to triple the ore processing capacity from 200 t/h to 600 t/h.

The nearing of completion of PP2 is largely owing to a constructive relationship with the dedicated team at Consulmet Africa, which, Gemfields says, has been “working tirelessly” with the team at MRM to overcome considerable challenges, logistical and otherwise, to deliver this project as planned.

The new processing plant will allow Gemfields to process MRM’s sizable stockpile of ruby ore, which is estimated to total 1.48-million tonnes, as well as the ability to bring to market additional sizes and colour variations of rubies, which were previously not practical, given limited processing capacity.

PP2 will also enable Gemfields to explore more of MRM’s untapped licence areas, as only a small percentage of the licence area has been mined to date.

Overcoming Operational Challenges

Mozambique’s northern territory faces sporadic insurgency, which has impacted the MRM operation – a security situation made worse by the omnipresent threat of illegal miners wanting to enter Gemfields’ mine.

In the last quarter of 2024 and into 2025, following the aftermath of Mozambique’s elections, Gemfields reports that there was a significant increase in organised, large-scale groups of illegal miners intruding onto MRM’s licence areas, with some entering active mining pits, climbing on machinery and threatening MRM operational personnel.

“This situation poses significant risks to company assets, employees, contractors, community members and the illegal miners themselves,” Gemfields informs Mining Weekly.

However, the company notes that a multi- agency operation undertaken in April has significantly reduced the number of intruders onto MRM’s licence areas, while MRM continues to address this issue through ongoing education and communication with local communities about the dangers of illegal mining, collaboration with authorities and the implementation of enhanced security measures to deter the presence of illegal miners and trespassers.

“It is clear, though, that more needs to be done. Efforts are ongoing to engage with the newly appointed Ministers and others in government, to address the issue of illegal mining and the illegal syndicates who support it,” Gemfields states.

The MRM concession is patrolled by the Mozambican military and Mozambican police, in addition to the mine’s in-house and contracted security team, and trained local community members who provide basic guard duties.

These groups operate mixed patrols, Gemfields explains, with in-house teams wearing body cameras and only the government authorities carrying firearms.

Nonetheless, Gemfields highlights that all individuals patrolling the MRM concession are requested to follow the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights, and are offered training accordingly.

As further means to bolster its security, Gemfields points out that MRM undertakes extensive drone surveillance, daily liaison with government authorities, daily liaison with local village contacts, and carries out constant review of human intelligence to maintain the safety and well-being of its in-country team.

In addition, Gemfields also notes that efforts are ongoing to engage Mozambican authorities at district, provincial and national levels with the request that action be taken against those who are financing, facilitating and encouraging the illegal trade in Mozambican rubies in an effort to reduce illicit activity.