17 Feb 2025

 In an effort to address the pending issues faced by former BCL mine , Minister of Minerals and Energy, Ms Bogolo Kenewendo promised a comprehensive all-inclusive approach to address the matter

Ms Kenewendo said this yesterday during a consultative meeting with former BCL employees that was also attednded of the Minister for State President, Mr Moeti Mohwasa.

She said government stood resolute to engage an all-inclusive approach to address multifaceted challenges that emerged after the closure of the mine, which left many workers in unjustified situation.

Ms Kenewendo said consultations about the future of the mine were on-going, a report with insight into it all would be provided in April, thereafter find a way forward from the findings.

She said some of the reports received from the previous government stated that a total of P670million was paid as retirement packages for the former employees whereas the workers unions said a contrary version.

She stated that this prompted the government to initiate new consultations in an effort to create a consolidated report outlining a way forward for the parties involved.

As the government addresses the complexities arising from the mine’s closure, Ms Kenewendo urged former employees to collaborate with stakeholders involved in this process as needed.

Ms Kenewendo also emphasized that the government recognizes the issue of high property prices, which has made it challenging for former employees to purchase homes, despite their years of dedication to BCL mines.

She mentioned that the government was actively exploring interventions to make home buying more accessible for former employees.

“The government will conduct a valuation report to help map a way forward regarding the sale of houses. Depending on affordability, the government will consider purchasing houses to resell them to former employees,” she stated.

Former employee Mr Moses Moreri praised the government’s efforts, stating that the proactive measures outlined by Ms Kenewendo would provide much-needed support and long-term planning to address their challenges.

He expressed concern over some vacant mining houses that have become hubs for criminal activity, making the town unsafe.

Meanwhile, Minister Mohwasa acknowledged the hardships faced by many former BCL employees and assured that necessary measures will be taken to address these challenges. ENDS