Botswana Mining Review Comprehensive Coverage of the Progress and Achievements in the Mining Sector
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The burgeoning coal mining sector in Botswana has received a significant boost with the successful development of the nation’s third major coal mine, a project owing much of its progress to the expertise of independent geological consultants, Gemecs. Situated near Mookane in the Mmamabula Coal Field, this ambitious venture is poised to produce 1.2 million tonnes of coal annually, boasting a substantial resource of 94 million tonnes.
Gemecs, under the leadership of Managing Director and consulting geologist Nico Denner, has played a crucial role throughout the mine’s lifecycle, from initial exploration and resource modelling to detailed mine planning. With the removal of the boxcut overburden well underway, initial coal production is slated for later this year.
The mine’s Phase 1 plan targets a monthly output of 100,000 tonnes, a figure that could triple to 300,000 tonnes depending on the construction of the Waterberg rail link, the development of a second mine, and the prevailing coal market demand. Denner envisions a strengthened presence for Gemecs in Botswana, as the company seeks to be a key player in the nation’s evolving coal industry.
Gemecs offers a comprehensive suite of services, spanning the entire coal resource value chain. From preliminary desktop studies and exploration management to core logging, sampling, and geological database services, the company provides vital support to mining operations. Their expertise extends to geological modelling, resource reporting, and competent person reporting, ensuring clients receive accurate and reliable data.
“We also have the expertise to engage in geological modelling, coal resource reporting and competent person reporting,” Denner enthuses.
The company collaborates closely with mine planning consultants and other technical experts to create accurate short and long-term mine plans, while also providing ongoing production support. Gemecs’ ability to generate detailed geological models and conduct database audits is particularly valuable for large mining houses, meeting both internal and external compliance requirements.
To ensure the highest quality of service, Gemecs utilizes advanced software solutions. The GEOVIA Minex platform is employed for geological modelling, while the recently acquired Minescape software will further enhance the company’s capabilities in 3D modelling and mine design.
“We have also recently acquired 3D geological modelling and mine design software Minescape, which will help us ensure we stay the industry leaders in the coal consulting business,” Denner notes.
Denner highlights the versatility of Minescape, noting its ability to interpret geological borehole data and consolidate it with geological models and mine design plans on a single platform. For geological database management, Gemecs relies on Micromine’s Geobank software, ensuring robust data storage and verification.
Despite the prevailing uncertainty surrounding the coal industry due to environmental pressures and the push for alternative energy sources, Gemecs remains committed to staying informed and educated on clean coal technologies. The company actively engages with industry stakeholders, including supporting the FFF Carbon’s Coal Conference, to foster dialogue and shape the future of coal mining.
“Gemecs also participates with industry leaders and other organisations, such as Future Coal, to stay educated and provide an industry link to clients,” concludes Denner.
Gemecs’ pivotal role in the development of the Mookane mine underscores the importance of expert geological consultancy in driving the growth of Botswana’s coal sector. Their commitment to innovation and industry engagement positions them as a key player in the nation’s energy future.
