Matsitama�s mining miracle turns sour

Vacant homes once occupied by miners in Matsitama on the left, and the village's kgotla on the right PIC: KEOAGILE BONANG
Vacant homes once occupied by miners in Matsitama on the left, and the village's kgotla on the right PIC: KEOAGILE BONANG

When African Copper Mine (ACM) opened Thakadu Mine on the outskirts of Matsitama village back in 2010, it seemed like some kind of boon from the heavens. However, a few years later, the mine has closed down and disenchantment remains, writes Mmegi Correspondent, PINI BOTHOKO

MATSITAMA: The advent of Thakadu raised hopes in Matsitama and surrounding villages that perhaps things would turn out for the better. But the hope has literally fizzled out.

Matsitama is a remote village within the Central District where the majority of residents live in abject poverty with hopes that one day some miracle would help them fight their way out.

Editor's Comment
Batswana need to do better to stop FMD

It is a clear signal that the government’s purse is empty and that our own behaviour has left veterinary officials fighting with one hand tied behind their backs. We have been here before. During COVID-19, many of us thought we knew better. We ignored simple rules, we carried on as if the danger was someone else’s problem, and the virus took lives and left our economy on its knees. We are still broke from that experience. Yet now, with FMD...

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