CA approves Imara takeover bid
Business
Imara Holdings Limited’s attempt at preventing a hostile takeover from FWA Financial Ltd has fallen through following two major developments that tilted the scales in FWA’s way. This week, Competition Authority unconditionally approved the proposed acquisition of 71.23% of the issued share capital of Imara Holdings Ltd by FWA Financial Ltd, leading to a 100% shareholding.
In approving the acquisition, the antitrust body determined through the analysis of the facts of the merger, that the proposed transaction is not likely to result in the prevention or substantial lessening of competition, or endanger the continuity of the services offered in the market under consideration. The market structure in the provision of investment banking, financial products and services to corporate, institutional and private clients will not be altered and as such does not raise any competition concerns.
The regulatory approval is a major victory for FWA, a financial holding company incorporated in Mauritius, as it now set to be a controlling majority shareholder in Imara following a major development that saw high ranking shareholders accepting the takeover offer. A total of 59,494,301 Imara Shares are currently in issue, of which 17,234,046 Imara Shares are held by FWA, representing approximately 28.97% of the issued share capital of Imara. The Offer by FWA was therefore to acquire the remaining 42,260,255 Imara Shares which are currently not held by them. The Offer was made directly to shareholders for a cash consideration of P2.10 per share.
As part of the Offer Conditions, it was announced that that the Offer will become Unconditional once FWA has received valid acceptances in respect of not less than 12,572,599 Imara Shares or such number of Imara’s shares that when aggregated with FWA’s current shareholding results in FWA owning no less than 50.1% in nominal value of IHL Shares after the implementation of the Offer (“Acceptance Condition”). FWA has since announced that as of 16 December 2016 FWA has now accepted offers for IHL shares representing 35,597,118 shares (60%) and, combined with its extant holding such share represents 89 % of the total nominal value of IHL Shares.
FWA has confirmed that if, following the implementation of the Offer, FWA owns more than 80% of the Imara Shares in issue, then it is the intention to approach the BSE to delist Imara on the basis that the requisite shareholder spread is no longer extant. Furthermore, the company said if the Offer is accepted by Imara Shareholders holding such number of Imara Shares as will result in FWA (together with its existing beneficial shareholding) beneficially holding (directly or indirectly) not less than 90% of the entire issued share capital of Imara, then FWA reserves the right to implement a compulsory acquisition of the remaining Shares in accordance with the Botswana Companies Act.
The success of FWA in achieving the threshold they needed for a complete takeover of Imara adds to the drama that has pitied FWA against the Independent Board of Imara which has been desperately fending off FWA’s advances ever since the takeover was proposed. When making its offer to take over the whole of Imara, FWA said Imara has failed to hold steady amid difficult trading conditions in the sub-Saharan African markets in which it operates in.
African economies have suffered a sharp decline in the past 18 months, driven by weak commodity prices which led to declines in currencies versus the US Dollar, difficult economic conditions, currency controls, reduced liquidity, lower share prices and reduced equity trading volumes. Indicative of the challenges experienced by Imara is the 50% drop in the value of the flagship Imara African Opportunities Fund in US Dollar terms in the period from 30 April 2015 to 30 September 2016 as a result of the decline in African equity values and redemptions.
FWA has also noted that Imara has high central costs for a company of its size, adding that the high central costs reflect the fixed costs associated with its listing on the Venture Capital Board of the BSE as well as fixed costs associated with the complexity of its business model. “In determining the Offer price, FWA has taken in to account IHL’s track record, the value of IHL’s balance sheet at 30 April 2016 and IHL’s growth prospects. FWA therefore considers that the all-cash nature of the Offer allows Shareholders to realise their entire investment at a fair value given the uncertainties facing African economies and IHL at this time,” the acquiring company said.
While it appeared that FWA had made a convincing case for the takeover, the Independent Board rejected the offer price. The board of directors of Imara were obligated to form the independent board for the purpose of considering the terms and conditions of the offer. The Independent Board, in accordance with its obligations in the Takeover Regulations, appointed KPMG as an Independent Expert to provide it with a fair and reasonable opinion regarding the fairness and reasonable of the offer consideration.
“The Independent Board, taking into account the opinion of the Independent Expert that the terms and conditions of the Offer are not fair and not reasonable, has considered the Offer and is of the opinion that the Offer undervalues the Company and, on that basis, recommends that Imara Shareholders reject the Offers,” the independent board advised before adding that the Independent Board considers the offer to be an opportunistic move to take advantage of the current short-term adverse trading environment for the IHL Group and to acquire control of it cheaply.
The Independent Board’s recommendation was to be soon overshadowed by Imara’s interim loss and the biggest blow came through shareholders who somersaulted on the promises not to sell .In an Offeree Response Circular issued by the Independent Board of Imara to Shareholders, it was revealed that Mrs Ann Mackeurtan, a non-executive director, who indirectly holds 2 623 124 shares, has indicated that she will not be accepting the Offer. The board has since released a statement that Mrs. Mackeurtan, having reflected on her original decision, has confirmed to the Independent Board on 9 December 2016, that she will now be accepting the Offer in respect of all of her shares.
With FWA having exceeded the acceptance condition and the offer now becoming unconditional as to acceptances-which means it has acquired sufficient acceptances from shareholders of Imara- the takeover is certain to go ahead. Imara shareholders will be getting P2.10 per share, which is 19% lower than the current share price. The offer consideration values the entire issued share capital of the company at approximately P125 million, based on shares outstanding. This is lower than the actual market value of Imara which is currently at P154 million on the Botswana Stock Exchange.
Based on the offer consideration, the aggregate value of the consideration payable by FWA to Imara Shareholders is P88.7 million. FWA will be funding the offer consideration by means of internal resources and a line of finance received from Standard Chartered Bank Mauritius Limited.
Imara’s shares have not moved in response to the hostile takeover that begun over two months back, further strengthening the case of FWA to delist Imara after they get complete control of it.
When making the offer, FWA reasoned that the offer price of P2.10 per share is attractive to shareholders, providing a liquidity event as well as representing a fair value proposition. The Mauritius based company had made the absence of liquidity for Imara shares on the Venture Capital Board of the BSE a rallying call for shareholders to exit their positions by selling the shares to FWA. The strategy appears to have worked.
Business
New Khoemacau owners commit to mine’s multibillion Pula expansion
The future of Botswana’s largest copper and silver operation, Khoemacau Copper Mining, looks promising as the new owners, MMG Group, commit to the mine’s expansion plans. MMG, an Australian headquartered company owned by China, has expressed its dedication to doubling Khoemacau’s production and transforming it into one of the most significant high-grade copper operations in Africa.
Nan Wang, the Executive General Manager for Australia and Africa at MMG, stated that while the immediate focus is on maintaining a consistent production level of 60ktpa, there are solid plans to increase Khoemacau’s production capacity. The company aims to double its production from 3.65Mtpa to 8.15Mtpa, resulting in an increase in payable copper from approximately 60ktpa to around 130ktpa.
To achieve this expansion, Khoemacau has completed a pre-feasibility study on the project and a solar power initiative. The next step is to conduct a feasibility study, which will pave the way for increased production capacity. Additionally, Khoemacau has identified extensive exploration opportunities across its license area, positioning the company for an exciting new phase of development.
The current Khoemacau operation reached full production and nameplate capacity in December 2022, following over a decade of investment totaling over P10 billion. This significant investment allowed for an intense exploration program, resulting in the development of the most automated underground mining operation in Botswana. The first concentrate was produced in June 2021, and the product entered the export market in July of the same year. Throughout 2022, the company has been working on the pre-feasibility study for the expansion project, with the feasibility study scheduled for the following year.
The expansion plans will involve the construction of a new world-class process plant in Zone 5, where the current mining of ore takes place. This new plant will be larger than the existing one in Boseto, which currently receives ore from Zone 5. The expansion will also involve the development of new underground mines, including Mango, Zone 5 North, and Zeta North East. These additional mines will bring the total number of underground shafts at Khoemacau to six. The ramp-up of production from the expansion is expected to occur in 2026.
Khoemacau, which acquired assets in the Kalahari Copper Belt after the liquidation of Discovery Metals in 2015, currently employs over 1500 people, with the majority being Batswana. The Khoemacau Mine is located in north-west Botswana, in the emerging Kalahari Copperbelt. It boasts the 10th largest African Copper Mineral Resource by total contained copper metal and is one of the largest copper sedimentary systems in the world outside of the Central African Copperbelt.
The mine utilizes underground long hole stoping as its mining method and conventional sulphide flotation for processing. Resource drilling results have shown the existing resources to have continuity at depth, and there are several exploration targets within the tenement package that have the potential to extend the mine’s life or increase productivity.
The Zone 5 mine has already ramped up production, and further expansion in the next five years will be supported by the deposits in the Zone 5 Group. The estimated mine life is a minimum of 20 years, with the potential to extend beyond 30 years by tapping into other deposits within the tenement package.
In conclusion, the commitment of MMG Group to Khoemacau’s expansion plans signifies a bright future for Botswana’s largest copper and silver operation. With the completion of pre-feasibility and feasibility studies, as well as significant investments, Khoemacau is poised to become one of Africa’s most important high-grade copper operations. The expansion project will not only increase production capacity but also create new job opportunities and contribute to the economic growth of Botswana.
Business
Khoemacau Copper Mining to be acquired by MMG Limited
Khoemacau Copper Mining, a leading copper mining company, has recently announced its acquisition by MMG Limited, a global resources company based in Australia. This acquisition marks a significant milestone for both companies and demonstrates their commitment to continued investment, growth, and sustainability in the mining industry.
MMG Limited is a renowned mining company that operates copper and other base metals projects across four continents. With its headquarters in Melbourne, Australia, MMG has a strong track record in mining and exploration. The company currently operates several successful mines, including the Dugald River zinc mine and the Rosebery polymetallic mine in Australia, the Kinsevere copper mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Las Bambas Mine in Peru. MMG’s extensive experience and expertise in mining operations make it an ideal partner for Khoemacau.
MMG’s commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with Khoemacau’s values and priorities. Khoemacau has always placed a strong emphasis on safety, health, community, and the environment. MMG shares this commitment and applies the principles of good corporate governance as set out in the Corporate Governance Code of the Hong Kong Listing Rules. As a member of the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), MMG adheres to sustainable mining principles, ensuring responsible and ethical practices in all its operations.
Over the past 12 years, Khoemacau’s current shareholders have made significant investments in the development of the company. With approximately US$1 billion deployed in the project, Khoemacau has successfully transformed from an exploration and discovery phase to a fully-fledged operating copper mine. The completion of the ramp-up of the Zone 5/Boseto operations has set the stage for the next phase of expansion.
With the acquisition by MMG, Khoemacau is poised for an exciting new chapter in its development. The completion of a pre-feasibility study on the Khoemacau expansion and a solar power project has paved the way for increased production capacity. The feasibility study will be the next step in doubling the production capacity from 3.65 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) to 8.15 Mtpa, resulting in a significant increase in payable copper from approximately 60,000 tonnes per annum (ktpa) to 130,000 ktpa. Additionally, Khoemacau has extensive exploration opportunities across its license area, further enhancing its growth potential.
The CEO of Khoemacau, Johan Ferreira, expressed his gratitude to the current owners for their stewardship of the company and their successful transformation of Khoemacau into a fully operational copper mine. He also highlighted the company’s focus on the expansion study and its vision for the future with MMG. Ferreira emphasized that the partnership with MMG will ensure Khoemacau’s long-term success, delivering employment, community benefits, and economic development in Botswana.
MMG Chairman, Jiqing Xu, echoed Ferreira’s sentiments, stating that the acquisition of Khoemacau aligns with MMG’s growth strategy and vision. Xu emphasized MMG’s commitment to creating opportunities for all stakeholders, including shareholders, employees, and communities. He expressed confidence in Khoemacau’s expansion potential and the company’s ability to realize its full potential with the support of MMG.
The sale of Khoemacau to MMG is subject to certain conditions precedent and approvals, with the expected closing date in the first half of 2024. This acquisition represents a significant step forward for both companies and reinforces their commitment to sustainable mining practices, responsible resource development, and long-term growth in the mining industry.
In conclusion, the acquisition of Khoemacau Copper Mining by MMG Limited signifies a new era of investment, growth, and sustainability in the mining industry. With MMG’s extensive experience and commitment to responsible mining practices, Khoemacau is well-positioned for future success. The partnership between the two companies will not only drive economic development but also ensure the safety and well-being of employees, benefit local communities, and contribute to the overall growth of Botswana’s mining sector.
Business
BPC Signs PPA with Sekaname Energy
The Botswana Power Corporation (BPC) has taken a significant step towards diversifying its energy mix by signing a power purchase agreement with Sekaname Energy for the production of power from coal bed methane in Mmashoro village. This agreement marks a major milestone for the energy sector in Botswana as the country transitions from a coal-fired power generation system to a new energy mix comprising coal, gas, solar, and wind.
The CEO of BPC, David Kgoboko, explained that the Power Purchase Agreement is for a 6MW coal bed methane proof of concept project to be developed around Mmashoro village. This project aligns with BPC’s strategic initiatives to increase the proportion of low-carbon power generation sources and renewable energy in the energy mix. The use of coal bed methane for power generation is an exciting development as it provides a hybrid solution with non-dispatchable sources of generation like solar PV. Without flexible base-load generation, the deployment of non-dispatchable solar PV generation would be limited.
Kgoboko emphasized that BPC is committed to enabling the development of a gas supply industry in Botswana. Sekaname Energy, along with other players in the coal bed methane exploration business, is a key and strategic partner for BPC. The successful development of a gas supply industry will enable the realization of a secure and sustainable energy mix for the country.
The Minister of Minerals & Energy, Lefoko Moagi, expressed his support for the initiative by the private sector to develop a gas industry in Botswana. The country has abundant coal reserves, and the government fully supports the commercial extraction of coal bed methane gas for power generation. The government guarantees that BPC will purchase the generated electricity at reasonable tariffs, providing cash flow to the developers and enabling them to raise equity and debt funding for gas extraction development.
Moagi highlighted the benefits of developing a gas supply industry, including diversified primary energy sources, economic diversification, import substitution, and employment creation. He commended Sekaname Energy for undertaking a pilot project to prove the commercial viability of extracting coal bed methane for power generation. If successful, this initiative would unlock the potential of a gas production industry in Botswana.
Sekaname Energy CEO, Peter Mmusi, emphasized the multiple uses of natural gas and its potential to uplift Botswana’s economy. In addition to power generation, natural gas can be used for gas-to-liquids, compressed natural gas, and fertilizer production. Mmusi revealed that Sekaname has already invested $57 million in exploration and infrastructure throughout its resource area. The company plans to spend another $10-15 million for the initial 6MW project and aims to invest over $500 million in the future for a 90MW power plant. Sekaname’s goal is to assist BPC in becoming a net exporter of power within the region and to contribute to Botswana’s transition to cleaner energy production.
In conclusion, the power purchase agreement between BPC and Sekaname Energy for the production of power from coal bed methane in Mmashoro village is a significant step towards diversifying Botswana’s energy mix. This project aligns with BPC’s strategic initiatives to increase the proportion of low-carbon power generation sources and renewable energy. The government’s support for the development of a gas supply industry and the commercial extraction of coal bed methane will bring numerous benefits to the country, including economic diversification, import substitution, and employment creation. With the potential to become a net exporter of power and a cleaner energy producer, Botswana is poised to make significant strides in its energy sector.