South32 has provided a consequent update on the current situation at its Mozal Aluminium smelter in Mozambique, which had been facing operational disruptions due to civil unrest. Despite these challenges, the company has prioritised the safety of its workforce and has reported that there have been no security incidents at the facility.
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South32, the globally diversified mining and metals company, had previously announced the withdrawal of its production guidance for Mozal Aluminium in Mozambique due to escalating civil unrest in the region on December 10, 2024.
Recent developments indicate that road blockages, which had previously obstructed the transport of alumina from the port to the Mozal smelter, have largely been cleared. As a result, South32 expects to replenish alumina stocks in the coming days, assuming trucking conditions remain stable. However, the company remains cautious about potential escalations in civil unrest, particularly following the announcement of Mozambique’s election results on December 23, 2024. Such developments could further threaten critical trucking activities and disrupt operations at the Mozal facility.
In response to the uncertainty, South32 has taken proactive measures, including reducing amperage to the potlines to preserve raw materials and maintain operational stability. Should disruptions to trucking persist, the company warns that it may need to implement further actions, such as curtailing the potlines temporarily. In this case, alumina from South32’s Worsley Alumina refinery would be redirected and sold to third-party customers at market prices.
Despite these challenges, Mozal Aluminium has continued to maintain its aluminium exports to customers, demonstrating resilience amid the ongoing unrest. South32 remains committed to monitoring the situation closely and will provide further updates as necessary.
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