Mantashe was visiting Orion Minerals in Prieska in Northern Cape that is expected to start copper production in two years’ time.

The mine needs R7 billion ($388 million) in funding before production can start.

“Orion is important to because it reflects the interest of foreign direct investment. It is an Australian company that is very interested in producing copper here and we want to encourage them to do that and it is important for SA to always appreciate to attract an investor. It is quite a huge effort and it is very important for society and to have investment in their society.”

--SABC--