Africa-Press – Botswana. The Tati Nickel mine situated east of Francistown is set to operate again after eight years of closure.
The mine has been taken over by Austrian company Tataki/Niu Group. The company’s Chief Operations Officer, Mr Lukasz Abramowicz informed a stakeholder meeting in Francistown Thursday that the mine’s re-opening would start with the official opening next month, with full operations expected to commence within nine to 12 months.
Mr Abramowicz described the project as a long-term investment that would contribute significantly to Botswana’s economic growth, revitalise Francistown, and positively impact surrounding communities through job creation.
The company’s nine-month plan includes refurbishing existing buildings, constructing new technical infrastructure, and establishing a world-class mining operation, according to Mr Abramowicz. He further said they would employ 50 workers in the next three months and create 400 indirect jobs in the construction and supply chain. Mr Abramowicz saw the reopening as a strategic investment to boost Botswana’s presence in the global critical minerals market through sustainable and inclusive growth.
North East District Council chairperson, Mr Mbaakanyi Smarts hailed the re-opening as a long-awaited development, stating that the district leadership would fully support the project because it would revitalise Francistown and surrounding areas.
He emphasised that the re-opening was not just about restarting operations but also about restoring livelihoods and renewing hope, particularly for the youth, by creating decent jobs and ensuring the benefits of development reached local communities. Mr Smarts stressed the importance of inclusive employment opportunities by integrating local businesses into the supply chain, and training young people for the industry.
He called for a collaborative effort between government, the mining industry and the community to ensure equitable and efficient operation prioritising people at the heart of development.
Tati West constituency Member of Parliament, Mr Justin Hunyepa lauded Tataki/Niu Group for investment in the area. He expressed optimism that the reopening would revitalise the Francistown economy, create jobs and improve livelihoods. Mr Hunyepa, who is also the Assistant Minister of Education and Child Welfare, expressed desire for jobs with a minimum wage not below P4 000. The mine’s closure in 2016 resulted in the loss of over 700 direct jobs.
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