mmegi

Lerala’s fate to be clear by Christmas

Still mothballed: Lerala closed six years ago
Still mothballed: Lerala closed six years ago

Lerala Mine’s future will become clearer by Christmas when the Minerals and Energy ministry decides whether to grant the new owner, Maroon Capital, a licence to restart operations.

Lerala Mine, located in the Tswapong area, closed at the end of May 2017 after its Australian owner, Kimberly Diamonds, ran out of operational cash amidst weak sales. At least 130 workers lost their jobs, with a few others retained for care and maintenance activities.

Maroon Capital, a five-year-old firm majority-owned by Israeli investor, Gilad Shabtai, snapped up Lerala Mine in 2020 but is yet to restart production.

Editor's Comment
Gov't must guard against cadre deployment

As the Botswana National Front (BNF) discusses a policy to place suitably qualified members in strategic positions, the guiding consideration should remain whether an individual is the best person to serve the country. There is nothing wrong with qualified party members applying for public positions. Political affiliation should neither disqualify a capable candidate nor give them an advantage over others. Every Motswana deserves a fair...

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