Gala event at the Rudna mine on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of KGHM's divisio

A ceremonial academy, medals for employees and a jubilee film – the Rudna Mine is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Representatives of the former and current staff, KGHM management and invited guests met at the 'Muza' Cultural Centre in Lubin. There was a concert by a miner's orchestra, reminiscences and joint photographs.

A tribute to the Miners

– The Rudna Mine has built a solid foundation for the future over 50 years, which we are now developing together. Looking back on this half-century of success, I would like to pay tribute to all those who have contributed to the development of our mine. You are our greatest asset – both those who are working today and those who have given their heart to this mine over the years. I would like to thank you for your continued loyalty and commitment. I would like to thank the miners, engineers, the entire staff of the Rudna Mine. It is thanks to you that KGHM is able to develop and achieve its ambitious goals – said Andrzej Szydło, President of the Management Board of KGHM Polska Miedź S.A., during the ceremony.

– It is a special moment which allows us to look back on five decades of working together, full of challenges, successes and countless moments which have shaped our mine, but above all our community. Because, although the technology, infrastructure and working conditions have changed over the years, the most important thing at the Rudna Mine has always been and still is the same - our crew, the famous Rudna Family – added Marcin Danis, General Manager of the Rudna Mine.

During the academy, 21 employees received honorary badges of Merit for the Rudna Mine.

The history of a single division

Officially opened in 1974, the Rudna Mine was part of a larger project to exploit copper deposits in Lower Silesia. The creation of the plant was a response to the growing demand for copper, a key raw material for Poland's growing economy, both then and now. The initial years of operation were characterised by the dynamic development of the infrastructure and the introduction of modern technologies.

Innovation drives development

The Rudna Mine has always focused on technological development and investments that increase mining efficiency and improve safety. In recent years, several key projects have been implemented that have strengthened the plant's position in the mining industry, such as:

• the commissioning of the GG-1 shaft - one of KGHM's largest projects implemented during the last decade, allowing the mining of deposits at a depth of more than 1,200 metres. Thanks to this investment, the Rudna Mine gained access to new resources, extending its expected life by another decade,
• automation of production processes – modern systems for monitoring and remote control of machinery have increased safety and operational efficiency.

Half a century of successes and challenges

The history of the Rudna Mine is full of important events - both those related to the development of the mining industry, as well as those associated with the social changes. Employees of the Rudna Mine played a special role during the 1981 strike in response to the imposition of martial law. The Rudna Mine not only adapted to dynamic technological changes, but also took an active part in events of great significance for the entire country. The strike and the subsequent attitude of the miners during the pacification of the mine became a symbol of steadfastness and readiness to fight for freedom.