Modern Mining October 2018

MANGANESE

Strong start at Kalagadi An aerial view of the mine, which is located north-west of Hotazel in the Northern Cape. Murray & Roberts Cementation reports that work is

Roberts Cementation, says that as a new min- ing operation – and one of this magnitude – it was essential to put world-class systems in place to ensure not only the future success of the operation but also optimum safety within the operating environment. Just as important, he adds, is ensuring that the correct quality of product is mined and delivered to the plant. Processes and procedures were implemented

running ahead of programme on its contract at Kalagadi Manganese Mine in the Northern Cape. This leading underground mining contractor, who formed a joint venture with BCM Underground Mining (Pty) Ltd, is tasked with building up production to the shaft system’s nameplate capacity within the first 18 months of the five‑year contract. Thereafter the scope is to operate the mine for the balance of the contract term.

D uring this time Murray & Roberts Cementation will transfer the nec- essary skills to grow BCM Under- ground Mining as an underground mining contractor; this is in line with the company’s commitment to continuing transformation. BCM Underground Mining, a 100 % black-owned business, has solid rela- tionships with stakeholders in the region. Kalagadi Manganese Mine, owned by Kalahari Resources, is situated north-west of Hotazel on three farms which overlay an esti- mated 960 million metric tons of manganese ore. The mine has been designed to produce 3 million tons of manganese ore at a grade between 36 and 38 %. The mining method used will be room and pillar. Otto Fourie, project executive at Murray &

34  MODERN MINING  October 2018