Kumba delivers resilient results, declares R32 dividend

Kumba Iron Ore reported a solid performance for the year ended 31 December 2025, supported by higher realised prices, marginal sales growth and disciplined capital allocation amid an uncertain global trade environment.

The group declared a final cash dividend of R15.43 per share, taking the total dividend for the year to R32.03 per share.

Listen: An improving Transnet boosts Kumba … but demand still a worry

Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda) reached R31.9 billion, with an Ebitda margin of 46% – up from 41% – while attributable free cash flow came in at R12 billion.

Closing net cash stood at R14.9 billion.

Kumba achieved an average realised free-on-board export price of $95 (R1 524) per wet metric tonne, 12% above the benchmark, and reported cost savings of R673 million, bringing cumulative savings since 2024 to R5.1 billion.

Return on capital employed improved to 46%, also up from 41%.

Chief executive Mpumi Zikalala says the group created R58 billion of “enduring value in 2025” benefiting all its stakeholders.

On safety and sustainability, operations at Sishen remained fatality-free for more than nine years and Kolomela for two years, while freshwater withdrawals declined by 4% to 6 971 megalitres.

Read: Anglo’s South African iron ore unit says rail snags stabilise

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