Introduction
In a forward-thinking move toward greener mining operations, Kenmare Resources has officially launched two eco-friendly dredgers—CSD Calen and CSD Sandra—at a naming ceremony held last Friday at the Royal IHC shipyard in Kinderdijk, the Netherlands. These high-capacity, electrically powered dredgers are the latest step in Kenmare’s sustainability journey, signaling the company’s dedication to reducing its environmental impact while boosting operational efficiency.
A Milestone Ceremony in Kinderdijk
The event, hosted by Royal IHC, was attended by senior members of both Kenmare Resources and Royal IHC, alongside two special guests—Sandra Clifton, wife of Kenmare’s Mozambique Country Manager Gareth Clifton, and Calen Jamisse, daughter of Moma’s General Manager Higino Jamisse. These two women were honored as the namesakes of the new eco-friendly dredgers.
The naming of vessels is a time-honored maritime tradition, symbolizing identity, purpose, and fortune. By naming the dredgers after individuals who are part of the extended Kenmare family, the event underscored the company’s deep-rooted values in people, community, and legacy.
Introducing Kenmare’s New Eco-Friendly Dredgers
Custom-built by Royal IHC, CSD Calen and CSD Sandra are not only technologically advanced but also designed with sustainability at their core. Each dredger measures 62 meters in length and weighs approximately 1,000 tons, equipped with a total installed power of 6,800 kVA and cutter power of 1,350 kW.
These high-performance eco-friendly dredgers are purpose-built for mineral sands operations at the Moma Titanium Minerals Mine in Mozambique. Engineered for durability and efficiency, they are set to significantly enhance Kenmare’s mining capabilities while lowering its carbon footprint.
Sustainable Power for a Sustainable Future
What distinguishes these vessels is their electric propulsion system, powered entirely by renewable hydro-electric energy. As eco-friendly dredgers, they represent a critical advancement in Kenmare’s strategy to integrate low-emission technologies into its mining infrastructure.
By utilizing clean energy sources, Kenmare is aligning its operations with global climate goals, demonstrating that innovation in mining can also support environmental stewardship. These new vessels are not only practical solutions but also symbols of a future where sustainable mining is the industry standard.
The Stories Behind the Names
The personal stories behind the names—Sandra Clifton and Calen Jamisse—add a special human dimension to the launch. Sandra’s support of her husband’s leadership in Mozambique and Calen’s connection to the Moma mining community represent the broader support network behind Kenmare’s success.
By naming these eco-friendly dredgers after family members of dedicated employees, Kenmare emphasizes the importance of its people and the communities where it operates. It’s a testament to the company’s belief that progress is not just measured in machines and output, but also in relationships and shared purpose.
Driving Innovation Through Sustainability
Kenmare Resources has consistently shown leadership in modernizing the mining sector. As a key global supplier of titanium feedstocks, the company continues to explore ways to merge operational excellence with sustainability.
The deployment of CSD Calen and CSD Sandra adds to a growing fleet of eco-friendly dredgers that support more efficient, low-emission mineral extraction. These vessels are an example of how Kenmare is building a responsible mining future—not just with advanced machinery, but with a vision rooted in innovation and accountability.
Conclusion
The unveiling of eco-friendly dredgers CSD Calen and CSD Sandra is more than a ceremonial event—it marks a major advancement in Kenmare’s journey toward sustainable, high-capacity mining. With cutting-edge electric technology, renewable power, and a strong human story behind each name, these dredgers embody Kenmare’s commitment to progress with purpose.
As they enter operation in Mozambique, they carry with them the promise of reduced environmental impact, enhanced productivity, and a lasting legacy of thoughtful innovation.