business

Aug. 21, 2021

STAFF REPORTER

3 min read

New diamond mine opens in Mokhotlong

New diamond mine opens in Mokhotlong

Deputy Prime Minister Mathibeli Mokhothu

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DEPUTY Prime Mathibeli Mokhothu says opening a mine is huge move towards the development of any country as a government is expected to create employment opportunities for its own people.

He was speaking in Mokhotlong on Friday at the launch of a new diamond mine that is run by the Thaba Telle Mining Company.

The mine is owned by Lehlohonolo Nthontho who is the first Lesotho national to be issued a licence to run a mining company in the country.

The Deputy Prime Minister commended the Ministry of Mining for the move, saying that it is a perfect step to take towards developing the economy of the country.

“I am happy that the owner of the mining company is not only a Mosotho businessman but he is also a resident of Mokhotlong where most of Lesotho’s natural resources are found in abundance,” he said.
He was quick to show that more mines should be opened in the country to create jobs and fight unemployment.
Speaking at the same event, the Minister of Mining Serialong Qoo said the ministry is committed to improving the mining sector and ensuring that Basotho own and run the sector for the economic growth and development of their country.
He said before the end of the year, three more mines will have been launched, adding that the Liqhobong Mine which had been closed for a year will be opened next week.
Mr Qoo said the road leading to the Thaba Telle mining site will soon be constructed, adding that the Thaba Telle Mine is anticipated to be the second largest mine in Mokhotlong after Letšeng.

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For his part, the Minister of Forestry Ranges and Soil Conservation, Motlohi Maliehe said it is encouraging for the country to have a Mosotho owning a mining company.
He said while developments are taking place, the environment should also be protected. He appealed to the mine to provide Mokhotlong farmers with fodder to feed their livestock as the mine will occupy the ranges with its operations, leaving the livestock with insufficient land for grazing.

The Chairperson of Natural Resources Committee in Parliament, Kimetso Mathaba said the opening of the mine indicates that there is intention to improve and promote the mining sector in Lesotho. 
In his brief remarks, Mr Nthontho thanked the government through the Ministry of Mining for issuing him with a mining licence and allowing operations to kick start at the mine. LeNA

 

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