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Montepuez Ruby Mining (MRM), which operates Mozambique’s largest ruby mine, confirmed to Lusa today that it has resumed operations, which had been suspended since December 24 due to post-election conflicts.
“I can confirm that mining activities are ongoing and that the situation in the communities neighboring the mine appears calm. We remain vigilant and hopeful for peace in Mozambique,” an official source from Gemfields, which owns 75% of MRM, told Lusa.
The suspension was prompted by the deterioration of security conditions in the area surrounding the mine in Cabo Delgado, northern Mozambique, during the last week of 2024. On December 24, the company reported in a prior statement that “over 200 people attempted to invade” the MRM village, destroying and burning several structures.
In this wave of violence, police and military forces providing security at the site intervened, resulting in two fatalities.
Some of the 500 workers employed in the area were relocated to other locations starting December 26 for safety reasons, two days after mining activities were halted.
MRM also previously confirmed that during the same period, the neighboring village of Wikupuri, built by the mining company, was attacked by alleged protesters, leading to looting and destruction.
Mozambique has faced a new wave of social tension since December 23, following the announcement of the final results of the general elections held on October 9. This period was marked by looting, vandalism, and barricades, notably in Maputo.
The Constitutional Council declared Daniel Chapo, the candidate supported by the ruling Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo), the winner of the presidential election with 65.17% of the vote, succeeding Filipe Nyusi. Frelimo also retained its parliamentary majority.
This announcement triggered further chaos nationwide, with pro-Venâncio Mondlane protesters—who secured only 24% of the votes—taking to the streets, setting up barricades, engaging in looting, and clashing with the police, who resorted to gunfire to disperse the crowds.
Ruby mining at the MRM site has generated over one billion euros in revenue since 2012, according to data released last April by Gemfields, which holds a 75% stake in the company.
According to the “G Factor for Natural Resources” report, which promotes transparency regarding the wealth generated by Gemfields’ mining, oil, gas, timber, and fishing activities shared with host governments, MRM reported total revenue of $151.3 million (€145.1 million) in 2023.
Since Gemfields acquired its 75% stake in MRM in February 2012—the year mining activities began, with ruby auctions starting two years later—the mine has accumulated revenues exceeding $1.055 billion (€1.012 billion), paying the Mozambican government $257.4 million (€246.9 million) over the same period.
Last year, MRM paid $53.2 million (€51 million) in royalties and taxes to the Mozambican government, according to the same report.
MRM is 75% owned by Gemfields and 25% by Mwiriti Limitada, a Mozambican company.
