According to a statement from Lucapa, which manages the mine with Endiama and Rosas e Pétalas, the "sobas" (local traditional authorities) blocked all entrances to the mine, preventing mining.
"The blockade is currently peaceful, however, it is preventing mine workers from entering or leaving the site," the company says, stressing that the priority "remains the safety and well-being of its employees".
The blockade has halted alluvial mining and kimberlite sampling activities at Lulo, one of Angola's most famous mines and where some of the most valuable diamonds have been produced.
"Talks are taking place between community leaders and a government delegation that includes representatives of the provincial governor to peacefully end the blockade, but no progress has been made," the Lucapa statement said.
The company adds that the processing of the stored ore continues, although there was some downtime at the processing unit because workers who live outside the mine were unable to enter.
However, "there is a risk that the blockage could affect Lulo's first quarter 2025 production results if it is not resolved soon", as the stored gravel, that is, the material from which diamonds are extracted, is running out.
Lucapa highlights that "community leaders made a series of unreasonable demands to Sociedade Mineira do Lulo", the entity that operates the mine, considering that the issues the group is demanding are the responsibility of local authorities.
The company emphasizes that it has consistently supported the local community and fulfilled its social responsibilities and argues that "these new demands are unreasonable and unexpected."
