A new dawn for Francistown needs all

Mmegi Editor | Monday April 7, 2025 13:07

Once the lifeblood of the local economy, the mine’s revival promises jobs, hope, and a much-needed boost to the region. Yet, as we celebrate this milestone, there are vital lessons to heed. For the mine to thrive, its new owners must work hand-in-hand with workers, unions, and the community, not just around them. Francistown knows all too well the cost of the mine’s closure. When the TNMC shut in 2016, over 700 workers lost their livelihoods overnight. Businesses that relied on the mine collapsed, thus deepening economic hardship.

The recent announcement that 400 jobs will be created is therefore a beacon of hope and progress. The potential ripple effect, reviving retail, transport, and property sectors could breathe fresh life into the city. The reopening of the TNMC will in addition to creating jobs, boosts industrialisation. The city has not been doing well since the closure of the mine. The unemployment situation was also worsened by the fact that some businesses folded after failing to deal with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. But, excitement must be tempered with caution. The Botswana Mine Workers Union (BMWU) president, Joseph Tsimako, has voiced serious concerns about the impending development. Despite the mine’s April 2025 restart, the union remains “clueless” about the new owner’s identity or plans. This lack of engagement is alarming. When Premium Nickel Resources Botswana (PNRB) acquired assets from BCL Limited, they proactively consulted the BMWU, sharing their vision for operations and employment.

In contrast, TNMC’s reported new owner, believed to be Austria’s NIU Investment, has yet to approach the union. This silence risks repeating past mistakes. Workers deserve clarity on hiring priorities, job conditions, and whether former TNMC employees will be rehired. As Tsimako rightly notes, “The new owners require workers, who will be represented by the union, to succeed.” Ignoring this partnership undermines trust and stability. The mayor’s commitment to “engage with the mine on value chains” is positive, but inclusive growth demands more. The company must transparently address key questions: How long will operations run? What safeguards exist for workers? How will the community benefit beyond jobs? Lessons from PNRB show that early dialogue fosters cooperation. To NIU Investment and TNMC’s leadership, we urge: engage now. Meet with the BMWU, outline your plans, and listen to those who know the mine’s history best. Prioritise former employees where possible and invest in training for new recruits. Partner with the council on local projects, ensuring profits translate into lasting community gains, including better schools, healthcare, or infrastructure.

Today’s thought 'The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.'-Ralph Waldo Emerson