13 Jul 2014

The construction of a tailings treatment plant by Jwaneng Mine is expected to increase the life span of the mine, ultimately boosting the national economy.

Speaking during the recent plants open day Jwaneng Mine general manager, Mr Albert Milton said in the 20 year life span of the project, it would produce about 15 million carats and a return of P2 billion towards the economy of the country. Mr Milton said the project would create jobs for citizens. 

The project currently employed 500 people. He explained that the project was a first of its kind for Debswana and said there was every reason to rejoice as the project was led by citizens.

“The company takes pride in this citizen led project,” he said.

The project manager, Mr Moleko Majaha explained that the project was almost complete and the commissioning had already started. He said the first carets would be produced early September while the tailings from the project would be treated as a resource to be used in the future. 

The group projects lead, Mr Johan Rademan described the project as a unique initiative in starting to develop the future as the project would give an opportunity to explore available resources.

Mr Rademan said the project was a big achievement for the company as it developed citizen skills that would in future benefit the country. 

He explained that the company would in September approach the board to give approval on another construction of the same project at Debswana Letlhakane Mine. 

“If we are approved, workers that have gained skills in Jwaneng will be transferred to Letlhakane to share skills with their counterparts,” he said. 

The P700 million project, which commenced construction in August last year is expected to be complete in two months. ENDS