Answering a question on behalf of the Minister of Minerals, Energy and Water Resources, Ponatshego Kedikilwe, Moroka said the average nickel and copper prices in December 2008 were $9.6/lb and $3.15/lb and $3.23/lb in 2007 respectively. Moroka was responding to a question from the MP for Kasane, Duncan Mlazie who wanted to know the extent to which the world recession has affected the mining industry in terms of closures, production levels, sales, job losses. Mlazie also wanted a detailed explanation as to government's strategy to counter the effect of the unfavourable state of affairs and whether the minister does not consider it prudent for government to put in place emergency funding like loan facilities to the mining companies.
Moroka said the mines that were severely affected are:
*Mowana Mine operated by Messina Copper (Botswana). It ceased production at the end of last year. It is now in the process of securing funding to prolong the life of its operation. The company has approached the government to provide bridging finance guarantee. Moroka said the request is receiving active attention and it will be presented to cabinet upon receipt of some critical information from the company. He estimates that about 194 people will lose their jobs if this mine closes for good.
