The inauguration of the first phase of Ivanhoe Mines subsidiary Ivanplats' Platreef platinum/palladium/nickel/rhodium/gold/copper mine is an important moment for the company, for the mining industry and for South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa commented in a speech at the launch event on November 18.

He highlighted that platinum group metals are strategic enablers in the critical minerals transition and that the Platreef mine is integral to the success of the country's new Critical Minerals Strategy. 

"We are extremely encouraged that the Platreef mine has integrated sustainability principles and practices into its operations, with respect both to energy and water management.

"We know that our country’s water resources are extremely stressed. So, efforts to adopt technologies and systems to manage water, mine waste and the associated environmental impacts are to be welcomed. 

"We commend Ivanplats for its efforts to revitalise local water infrastructure across the mine’s host communities in line with the company’s Social and Labour Plan," Ramaphosa said.

He added that the Platreef mine was leading the way on energy sustainability with a 5 MW on-site solar farm, which earlier this year began supplying power to the mine’s operations and to supplement grid supply. 

"The opening of mines like Platreef gives us confidence that the mining industry will continue to grow," the President said, adding that the mine would also benefit surrounding communities, through employment, as well as community and employee share ownership schemes.

Ivanhoe founder and co-chairperson Robert Friedland, meanwhile, noted in a statement ahead of the mine's inauguration that the opening of the mine was a landmark occasion.

"The Platreef mine will be a major contributor to South Africa’s ongoing industrial advancement, unlocking the rich economic and social potential of this incredible country for generations to come.

“[The] opening ceremony at Platreef marks the culmination of 37 years of incredibly hard work by thousands of women and men, setting a new standard for the way that precious and strategic metals are produced in South Africa. Ivanhoe Mines will continue its commitment to work in partnership with the people of South Africa, as we expand the mine into one of the world’s largest primary producers of platinum, palladium, rhodium and gold, as well as a major nickel and copper producer,” he said.