Case Study:

Kamoa Copper Mine – DRC

Role: Check Surveyors / Survey Team Support

Client: Ivanhoe Mines / Kamoa Copper SA

Location: Kamoa Copper Mine, Democratic Republic of Congo

Project Overview

Kamoa Copper, a world-class copper deposit in the DRC, is a complex and fast-moving mining operation. The site involves simultaneous infrastructure builds, plant expansions, and underground development — all requiring precise survey control to maintain quality, safety, and compliance. Geovantage was engaged as check surveyors to oversee accuracy, verify construction works, and manage survey deliverables that feed into the mine’s operational and planning systems.

Scope of Work

Planning Surveys – mapping for future expansions and updating mine layout records.
GPR Scanning – pre-excavation utility detection to safeguard workers and assets.
Survey Team Oversight – ensuring all crews adhered to accuracy and QA standards.
Control Network Expansion – integrating new control into the existing mine framework.
Anchor Bolt & Concrete Verification – ensuring structural alignment before pours and mechanical installation.
Volume Surveys – for earthworks, stockpiles, and material movement tracking.
As-Built Surveys – for concrete foundations, steel structures, conveyors, and other fixed plant components.

Challenges Faced

Ongoing mine expansion requiring new control networks to be integrated with existing survey data.
Need for precise as-built documentation to support engineering close-out and commissioning.
Multiple contractors working under tight timelines.
Remote location with complex logistical and environmental conditions.

Our Approach

We deployed a multi-skilled survey team to work in parallel with the mine’s construction and engineering departments. Our role was both reactive — verifying works as they were completed — and proactive — establishing control, expanding survey coverage, and providing data for future planning. As with Lumwana, as-built surveys were carried out immediately after works to ensure there was an accurate, signed-off record before handover.

Technology & Deliverables

Instrumentation:

Deliverables: Full as-built documentation (DWG/PDF), deviation reports, updated mine plans, volume calculations, GPR reports, and revised control network data.
GPR Units – subsurface utility mapping.
UAV / Drone Systems – large-area mapping and photogrammetry.
GPR Units – subsurface utility mapping.
Digital Levels – height control for structures.

Outcome & Impact

Geovantage’s integrated role in Kamoa Copper’s construction and expansion phases allowed for rapid issue detection, compliance assurance, and smooth integration of survey data into mine planning systems. Our independent oversight reduced the risk of rework, ensured safety protocols were met, and gave the client a reliable as-built record of every stage of construction — an asset for both operational and legal purposes.