Kumba Iron Ore 01 production falls slightly but full-year guidance remains on track

KUMBA'S iron production was marginally lower in the first quarter of its financial year to end-March 2026 as stockpiles were managed ahead of Transnet’s planned logistic maintenance shutdown in May, but the full-year production guidance remains intact.

- EDWARD WEST

KUMBA Iron Ore CEO Mpumi Zikalala said a planned Transnet rail maintenance shutdown in May resulted in Kumba's iron production falling marginally in the three months to March 31, as stockpiles were managed in preparation.

(I HENK KRUGER Independent Newspapers)

Kumba’s chief executive, Mpumi Zikalala, said increased sales volumes were supported by improved finished stock levels and equipment availability at Saldanha Bay Port.

“As we move towards a sustainable future, construction of Sishen’s Ultra High Dense Media Separation (UHDMS) project continues, with preparations underway for the main plant tie-in scheduled for the second half of 2026.

Notably, Kolomela received its first wheeled renewable electricity from Envusa Energy, a joint venture between Anglo American and EDF Renewables, achieving a 72% reduction in scope 2 carbon emissions in March,” she said.