Minister of Minerals and Energy, Bogolo Kenewendo, has responded to concerns raised in Parliament by Tshenolo Bogatsu, MP for Lentsweletau-Lephephe, regarding alleged damage to homes in Medie Village caused by blasting activities at Masama Coal Mine. Bogatsu also sought clarity on the safety of fumes released during blasting and the mine’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts.
Kenewendo acknowledged concerns over cracks in houses but noted that a baseline assessment conducted by Minergy Coal Mine before operations began in 2018 revealed that some homes in Medie Village were already cracked or showing signs of structural weakness. Factors such as the sandy soils and construction standards were identified as contributing to the damage.
To further investigate, the Botswana Geoscience Institute (BGI) conducted a preliminary study in 2023, which found no direct link between mining activities and the structural damage. A more detailed seismic study, currently underway, is expected to conclude by the end of the year. “The study aims to provide answers to the root causes of the cracking houses in Medie and will guide the next plan of action by the mine,” Kenewendo explained.
The Minister highlighted the mine’s proactive monitoring of ground vibrations and air blasts. Current readings are within global safety standards, and blasting activities are moving further away from the village.
Addressing concerns about the toxicity of blasting fumes, Kenewendo assured Parliament that the explosives used by the mine are water-based gels, which release harmless nitrogen and oxygen gases. She also clarified that occasional fumes might result from spontaneous combustion of waste coal, particularly during the hot summer months. “The mine has procedures in place to manage spontaneous combustion by dousing affected areas with soil or sand to starve them of oxygen,” she said.
Kenewendo emphasized the mine’s commitment to CSR initiatives, despite facing operational challenges. Since 2018, Minergy Coal and its partners have invested approximately BWP 700,000 in various projects, including rehabilitation of dams for livestock and farming, provision of potable water to farmers near the mine, donations of ICT equipment to local schools and the village kgotla, support for Medie Clinic through equipment donations, and organizing community wellness days focused on non-communicable diseases and healthy lifestyle choices. “The mine remains dedicated to supporting the Medie community through meaningful projects, even during periods of operational difficulty,” Kenewendo stated.
Kenewendo concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring safety and addressing community concerns.
