Naledi Mining Services, DRA Global sign deal
Naledi Mining Services, the trailblazing company, has positioned itself as a game changer in the industry spot which has been enhanced by this week’s signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a global mining services major, DRA Global.
The MoU, which was penned on Wednesday in Jwaneng, will further aid the company to achieve its goal of expanding regionally and internationally. Naledi Mining Services Chief Executive Officer, Bokang ‘BK’ Thitoyamore, was over the moon that they have found a partner of such stature, given the fact they (Naledi Mining) has been in operation for less than two years. Thitoyamore said the collaboration between Naledi and DRA offers numerous advantages to both organizations and extends far beyond the companies’ respective operations. “For Naledi, this relationship provides unprecedented access to DRA's extensive global network and skills, opening new opportunities for growth. Our employees stand to benefit from invaluable training, upskilling, and retooling opportunities, ensuring that they are equipped with the latest industry knowledge and skills.”
Naledi Mining Services is a 100 percent subsidiary of Debswana, a joint venture between Botswana and De Beers. Thitoyamore, one of the mining industry's current crop of rising stars, said the partnership comes as an opportunity for the company to grow beyond its initial goals. For example, under the MoU, the two companies will be able to work on joint venture projects in future, a plus for Naledi Mining which is seeking to be a notable player in the cutthroat mining services sub-sector. The MoU heralds a new era of job creation for Batswana, especially the youth, he stressed. In addition, new joint projects with DRA will provide upskilling of local workers and contribute positively to uplifting the lives of citizens. Thitoyamore reiterated that on a business level, the partnership will allow both parties to leverage the complementary strengths of both companies including resources and expertise to deliver best-in-class mining solutions. “This partnership will enhance our reputation for excellence, positioning us as industry leaders both locally and internationally.”
Speaking at the ceremony, DRA Global CEO, James Smith said the alliance is a major step forward in their shared commitment to advancing Botswana’s dynamic mining sector. “With a proven track record as a leading multi-disciplinary engineering, project delivery, and operations management group, DRA is dedicated to the mining, minerals, and metals industries. Our success is built on deep collaborations with our clients, suppliers, and the communities we serve. This partnership with Naledi Mining Services perfectly embodies our philosophy.”
Smith pointed out that with DRA's established reputation as a key partner in designing and developing specialized underground mining infrastructure, their involvement underscores commitment to supporting Botswana’s shift to underground mining. “Our deep expertise in hydrometallurgy and other key processing technologies is also crucial for extracting battery metals, aligning with Botswana's strategic goals to diversify its mining industry.”
He explained that Botswana's rich mineral endowment and the government's commitment to sustainable mineral development provide an exceptional foundation for investment and growth. “At DRA, we are eager to contribute not only through investments but also by empowering Batswana through skills development and sustainable practices.”
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Botswana Investment and Trade Center (BITC), Director for Export Development and Promotion, Temo Ntapu highlighted that the partnership holds promise for both the country and the mining industry. “By granting Naledi access to DRA's global network and facilitating opportunities for training, upskilling, and retooling, we are laying a robust foundation for the sustainable growth of Botswana's mining sector. The creation of new job opportunities for Batswana, coupled with the retention of existing ones, will play a pivotal role in driving socioeconomic prosperity across our nation.”