KEFI Gold and Copper has resumed development activities at its flagship Tulu Kapi Gold Project in Ethiopia following a temporary suspension triggered by a fatal incident in early September 2026.
The company said operations were halted after what it described as the “Genji Incident,” which began on September 4 and was resolved on September 10 following engagement with local community leaders. The incident marked the first fatality involving KEFI personnel during its 12 years of involvement in the project, according to the company.
During the suspension, KEFI’s senior management consulted local community representatives, federal and Oromia regional government officials, security agencies and other stakeholders. Discussions focused on community welfare, employment opportunities, security and workplace safety.
“We are enjoying huge support from all stakeholders and are now restarting development with a phased and measured approach in which we reinforce the emphasis on safety and community benefits,” said Harry Anagnostaras-Adams, KEFI’s executive chairman.
The company said the restart would proceed in several phases, beginning with reconnecting the project site to the regional electricity grid and remobilizing civil engineering teams to construct essential access roads.
The next phase will involve resettlement arrangements, including replacement housing and land for communities located within the mining licence area. Subsequent activities will include upgrading security infrastructure, undertaking major earthworks for the processing plant and constructing permanent staff accommodation.
KEFI said the project could directly employ approximately 1,000 local community members once the mine reaches active production. It also expects the development to create opportunities for local businesses and support infrastructure improvements, including roads, electricity connections, schools and healthcare facilities.
International specialists and contractors working on the project will prioritize local businesses with established operational experience in Oromia, the company said.
The resumption follows a major mining services agreement signed by KEFI with the BCM Group in June 2026. The contract, valued at more than $400 million, is intended to support mining operations at Tulu Kapi.
KEFI also said international lenders remained committed to the project as discussions continued over revised development timelines and financial arrangements.
