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Masama winter ‘camp-out’ ends, but questions remain

Friday, August 29, 2025 | 170 Views |

Face the people: Minister Kenewendo (far right) and other officials engaged the Meropa Resources workers recently to map out solutions

Employees of Masama Coal in Lentsweletau spent the winter in tents outside the suspended mine waiting for their salaries. While their dues are to be paid, their future and that of the mine, is still unclear. LARONA MAKHAIZA and MBONGENI MGUNI write

Masama Coal Mine, the country’s smaller colliery after Morupule Coal Mine, is yet another cautionary tale about how the cyclical nature of mining and logistics can wreak havoc on operations and workers’ lives.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, triggered an energy crisis in Europe and parts of Asia which lifted coal prices to record highs, boosting the country’s two collieries, which witnessed a surge in orders within Africa and abroad.

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Masama winter ‘camp-out’ ends, but questions remain

Employees of Masama Coal in Lentsweletau spent the winter in tents outside the suspended mine waiting for their salaries. While their dues are to be paid, their future and that of the mine, is still unclear. LARONA MAKHAIZA and MBONGENI MGUNI write

Gov't moves to close tax gaps

Chief judge promises fairness at tomorrow's Miss Botswana finale

High pressure mounts on fuel prices

We respect AFCON final decision – Babitseng

Court blow rocks BPF leadership

BPF moves to rebuild unity-Lucas

‘Reatile, Ookeditse deal was gentleman’s agreement’

Branch fires early warning shot as Portugal fuels title push

A promising step for public schools, but...