By Pauline Dikuelo | Wednesday, October 29, 2025, 06:26
The mining landscape in Botswana is on the brink of a significant transformation, thanks to the ambitious plans of GCR Group, now at the helm of the Tataki Mine. Under the leadership of CEO Richard Bunning, the company is not just reviving a dormant operation but is also laying the groundwork for a sustainable and economically beneficial future for the region.
A Fresh Start at Tataki Mine
Richard Bunning recently addressed the media, emphasizing the company’s commitment to rebuilding operations from the ground up. “We are lucky to have inherited key individuals in the engineering department from the previous owners, as well as experienced geologists,” he stated. This expertise is crucial as GCR Group embarks on a journey to modernize the mine and prepare it for contemporary production methods.
Tataki Mine, located near Francistown in the Matsiloje area, is set to produce a diverse array of metals and hydroxide salts that are in high demand on international markets. Key products will include nickel and cobalt hydroxide precipitates, copper cathodes, and metal bars for platinum group metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. This variety not only enhances the mine’s marketability but also positions it as a critical player in the global mining sector.
Economic Impact and Future Prospects
Bunning highlighted the anticipated economic contributions of Tataki Mine to Botswana. “We plan to invest further capital into Tataki to develop and expand mining operations,” he noted. The CEO envisions Tataki as a pivotal engine for Botswana’s economic growth in the coming years. The company aims to establish a full value chain operation, encompassing everything from exploration to processing. This strategic approach will allow Botswana to export refined metals rather than merely raw ore, significantly increasing the value derived from its mineral resources.
The long-term development roadmap for the Tataki site is expected to be finalized by early next year. This plan includes the establishment of metallurgical processing facilities, which will further enhance the mine’s operational capabilities and economic contributions.
Significant Investments and Job Creation
The revitalization of Tataki Mine has attracted substantial investments, notably from Austrian investor Cevdet Caner and his firm, NIU Invest SE. They have pledged $200 million (approximately P2.7 billion) over the next decade to restore the Phoenix Mine to profitable operations. This investment is projected to create over 3,000 direct and indirect jobs, along with an impressive $4.2 billion in revenue over the next ten years.
Such financial commitments not only signal confidence in the mine’s potential but also underscore the importance of the mining sector as a driver of economic growth in Botswana. The influx of capital will facilitate the modernization of operations and the implementation of best practices in mining.
Commitment to Local Development
Beyond its mining operations, Tataki Mine is dedicated to investing in local development initiatives. The company plans to focus on education, infrastructure, and healthcare, ensuring that the surrounding communities benefit sustainably from the mine’s revival. This holistic approach reflects a growing recognition of the need for mining companies to contribute positively to the regions in which they operate.
A Historical Context
Tataki Mine has a rich history, previously operated by Tati Nickel Mining Company, which has been in liquidation since October 2016. The Phoenix Mine, a key component of the operation, has remained under care and maintenance since 2003. Before its closure, Tati Nickel was a leading producer of nickel, copper, cobalt, and platinum group metals—resources critical to various industrial and technological applications.
However, operational challenges and a prolonged downturn in commodity prices led to financial struggles, ultimately forcing the company into liquidation. This left the Phoenix Mining Complex idle for nearly two decades, a situation that GCR Group is now determined to change.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
The revival of Tataki Mine not only marks the restoration of operations at a historically significant mining complex but also positions Botswana to reclaim a stronger foothold in the global market for critical industrial and technological minerals. With strategic investments, a commitment to local development, and a focus on modern production techniques, GCR Group is paving the way for a new era in Botswana’s mining sector. As the plans unfold, the eyes of the world will be on Tataki Mine, eager to witness its transformation into a beacon of economic growth and sustainability.
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