Name of the Project 
Jwaneng underground project (JUP).

Location 
Botswana.

Project Owner/s 
Debswana (a 50:50 joint venture between De Beers Group and the government of Botswana).

Project Description 
Debswana is pressing ahead with its plan to prolong the life span of its flagship Jwaneng mine to 2054 by converting it into an underground operation. 

The mine will be strategically developed to ensure that there is not a production gap between the end of operations at the Cut 9 openpit (expected in about 2034) and the mine's transition to underground operations.

Several technologies are being evaluated for the project, including automated loading and hauling systems, with remote operation capabilities; real-time personnel and equipment tracking; predictive maintenance systems; sophisticated ventilation-on-demand systems; digital twin modelling for operational optimisation; fibre-optic environmental monitoring networks; energy efficiency innovations; and water conservation.

Studies are ongoing to determine steady-state production parameters. Mining methods under consideration include block caving, blast hole open stoping and sublevel caving. 

Potential Job Creation 
The project will contribute to local infrastructure development, employment creation and technological advancement, thereby enhancing workforce skills.

Net Present Value/Internal Rate of Return 
Not stated.

Capital Expenditure 
$6-billion.

Planned Start/End Date 
The development of the first phase of the underground mine is expected to start in 2028, with underground production of the remaining resources planned to start after the Cut 9 pit closes in 2035.

Phase 2 development is envisioned to start in 2036.

Latest Developments 
None stated.

Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants 
None stated.

Contact Details for Project Information 
De Beers Group press office, tel +44 20 7430 3434 or email pressoffice@debeersgroup.com.