New study throws Selebi-Phikwe a lifeline

The mine is the town's economic mainstay, but could wind up within three years as its lifespan is directly determined by the commercial viability of nickel and copper left underground. Residents of Selebi-Phikwe have lived with the dim prospects of the mine grinding to a halt in 2013, as originally announced in 2006.

However, using the financial and technical support from government and the European Union (EU), BCL mine embarked on an aggressive exploration programme designed to expand the base metal resource and extend its lifespan.