Botha-Bothe, May — Minister of Energy and Mining, Mr. Lejone Mpotjoane, has indicated that the Ministry is aware of the ongoing closure of mines in the country, saying the situation is caused by the declining global market for diamonds.
He said the closure of mines has resulted in many people losing their jobs. In response to the situation, the Ministry is investigating other underground resources that the country can exploit to generate income.
“One of the resources we have as a country is crushed stone. This resource should mainly be mined by Basotho, and the Ministry will work hard to ensure that happens. Contractors from other countries should buy crushed stone from Basotho companies so that they, in turn, can employ more Basotho,” he said.
Mr. Mpotjoane added that the government intends to amend laws governing ownership of crushed stone companies.
“It is very heartbreaking to see companies such as these falling into the hands of non-Basotho,” he said.
Several mines in Lesotho have closed over time. Liqhobong and Mothae mines have not been operating for months, while unconfirmed reports indicate that Kao Mine may close in the coming months and retrench its workers.
Ends/MM/tl
