Functions
• Regulating and Monitoring of Mining activities
• To promote investment in the mining sector
• To increase contribution to GDP through development of mining sector and increasing of the number of operating mines in Lesotho
• To promote beneficiation and downstream activities of minerals and increase participation of Basotho in the mining sector
Specific Objectives (Categories of work)
• Explosives Regulation – Administering the use of explosives from importing, transportation, storage and utilization, including licensing
• Health and Safety and Environment Inspection – Administering and oversee the processes of the mines during operation to ensure that their work is carried out in a safe and environmental friendly manner
• Production Monitoring and Revenue Collection – The department is present at the mines at all times to oversee the production processes and the recovery of diamonds. The diamond paper trail is maintained until point of sales and taxing of royalties, surface rents and Dealing
• Vetting During Mining rights Licensing – All mining licenses applications and renewals are made through the Commissioner of Mines. All application processes prior to the mining board are completed by the Department of Mines
• Diamond Movement Control – Licensing and permitting of diamond sales and movement from one person or company to the other and vice Versa, through Kimberly Process Certification Scheme
• Diamond Security – Administering and coordination of security processes around diamonds to combat illicit trading and theft.
Mining Leases
• Diamond Mining Companies
• Dolerite Quarries
• Sandstone Quarries
• Clay Quarries