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Arnot Mine reopens – “It’s all about the workers” Says Minister Mantashe

Retrenched employees of the Exxaro Arnot Mine celebrated Workers Day with visible emotion as Exxaro handed over the Arnot Mine in a section 11 transfer.

May 1, 2019

Sjani Campher 1 minute read

Minister of Mineral Resources, Mr Gwede Mantashe, speaking at the handover of Arnot Mine.

After the closure of the colliery in 2015, families were cut off at the knees financially, losing their livlihoods due to corruption and state capture.

Minister of Mineral Resources, Gwede Mantashe, who attended the handover, shared words of encouragement, urging the Arnot community to collaborate in ensuring the success of its reopening.

The Mine, which now rests in the ownership of the new company name, Arnot Opco was transfered to West Coal, with 50% given to retrenched employees who are now official shareholders in the company.

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The new Mine Operator, Ms Bonhle Mapana disclosed in a statement that it’s Arnot Opco’s vision to create value and create a company that could compete with the likes of Exxaro. She further went on to explain that it is the responsibility of sharholders to ensure the company’s success.

Minister Mantashe spoke of the significance behind the handover taking place on Workers Day, emphasising that the transfer was all about the workers. He commended Exxaro for thinking beyond the crisis and turning it into an opportunity.

West Coal is at the forefront of funding the initiative by providing the capital to pick the Mine up off its knees.

West Coal CEO, Reginald Dimana promised that they will continue to support the new owners.
“We have funded R100 million of which R25 million has already been spent. Moving forward, we promise transparency and accountibility in our partnership and thank Exxaro for this opportunity.”