Search continues for Lerala mine investors-PHK

The minister said all the 160 employees of the mine have been paid their severance dues. "We have been advertising the mine and we hope that we will conclude negotiations with a possible buyer so that it can start operating. But the information I have now is that all those who worked there have been paid all their outstanding dues," he said.

The mine's opening raised hopes of turning the economic fortunes of Lerala and surrounding villages. However, this was short-lived as it stopped operating soon after take off. The global financial crisis triggered the mine closure putting paid to what was hoped would become a major economic hub in the Tswapong region. Before the mine opened, residents braced for the good that was to come with the new development. Some built houses for rental to the mine employees, others ploughed more land with the hope of selling food to the workers.