Swaziland’s Bulembu Mine, which closed in 2001, could be transformed into a museum, according to a report by The Swazi Observer.
Between 1939 and 2001, the chrysotile mine operated in Bulembu in north-western Hhohho. After the mine was liquidated in 2001, the 10,000 residents deserted the town to look for employment elsewhere and Bulembu became a ghost town.
Ehlanzeni District Municipality Manager Planning and Municipal Health, Patrick Msibi, said the initiative could help preserve the history of the mine for years to come.
“It’s lying idle, and needs the co-operation of South Africa and Swaziland for it to attract tourists. The cableway has the potential to be a lucrative tourist attraction and create jobs for people of both countries.”
He said there were numerous opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sector where Swaziland and South Africa could partner with the private sector and communities.
Other attractions in the town include the town hospital, with equipment dating back to the 1930s, and the old jail and courthouse next to the police station.
