Kazera Global has announced a major contract extension for its diamond mining operations at Alexander Bay, South Africa. The agreement, reached with Alexkor SOC Limited, grants Kazera’s subsidiary, Deep Blue Minerals (DBM), the right to expand its mining activities beyond land-based operations to include beach and shore diamond extraction.
A Strategic Expansion in Diamond Mining
Kazera Global’s extended contract marks a significant milestone in its efforts to revitalize diamond mining in the Alexander Bay region. The five-year mining concession provides long-term stability for DBM’s operations, allowing the company to increase production capacity and enhance efficiency in diamond recovery.
The agreement includes a 12-month probation period, during which DBM must demonstrate active mining operations, compliance with health and safety regulations, and consistent production rates. This probationary phase ensures that the company meets industry standards while ramping up its mining activities.
The Rich Diamond Fields of Alexander Bay
Alexander Bay is home to some of South Africa’s most historically significant diamond deposits, situated between two former De Beers mining sites. The region has produced over 10 million carats of high-quality diamonds since mining began in 1928, with an estimated 2 million carats still remaining.
DBM’s current focus is on diamond-rich deposits near the shoreline, where the quality of diamonds is exceptionally high and the amount of overburden is minimal. The company has recently commissioned a new diamond processing plant, enabling it to process diamond-bearing gravels more efficiently.
Kazera’s Commitment to Innovation
Kazera Global has invested heavily in modernizing its mining operations, acquiring new equipment to improve efficiency. The company has introduced a diamond-specific pulsating jig and a Flow Sorter, which will allow DBM to bypass traditional processing bottlenecks and deliver high-concentration diamond gravel directly to Alexkor for final sorting and sale.
Kazera CEO Dennis Edmonds expressed optimism about the contract extension, stating:
“We are delighted to have secured this new, extended contract directly with Alexkor, which marks a significant milestone for DBM as we ramp up our diamond mining operations. The five-year term not only offers long-term security and operational stability but also expands the areas in which we can mine for diamonds. We see this as a clear vote of confidence in both DBM’s capabilities and in our potential to rejuvenate diamond mining in the Alexander Bay area.”
Future Prospects and Industry Impact
Kazera’s expanded mining rights align with South Africa’s broader efforts to strengthen its diamond industry and boost economic growth in mining regions. The company’s focus on sustainable mining practices and technological advancements positions it as a key player in the evolving diamond sector.
With the contract extension now in place, Kazera Global is set to increase production, improve diamond recovery rates, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of diamond mining in Alexander Bay.
