Botswana Mining Review Comprehensive Coverage of the Progress and Achievements in the Mining Sector
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Johannesburg – Botswana Diamonds has secured a crucial mining permit for its Thorny River project in South Africa, a significant step forward for the diamond exploration and development company. The permit, granting access to an area adjacent to the historic Marsfontein diamond mine, comes after extensive geophysical analysis, drilling, and bulk sampling, confirming the project’s commercial viability.
The Thorny River project, boasting geology and diamond grades consistent with the nearby Klipspringer mine, represents a potential boon for Botswana Diamonds. The company had applied for two mining permits following the discovery of two commercially viable kimberlite blows within the project area, with this permit representing the successful conclusion of one of those applications.
“At last, we have received the mining permit,” declared John Teeling, Chairman of Botswana Diamonds. “We also note a small improvement in diamond prices. If the price rises are sustained, we can look forward to the commencement of contractor mining at Thorny River.”
However, the company’s path has not been without its challenges. While primarily focused on its Botswana operations, Botswana Diamonds had previously initiated contract mining at the Marsfontein gravels and dumps, generating a 15% revenue royalty. This venture, intended as a proof of concept, was unfortunately suspended in October 2023 due to a combination of falling diamond prices and protracted permitting delays.
Now, with the Thorny River permit secured and signs of a potential market recovery, Botswana Diamonds is poised to resume operations at Marsfontein and initiate mining at Thorny River. The company’s resilience is further underscored by its recent acquisition of a prospecting permit for five diamond-bearing kimberlites in the Marsfontein area, encompassing 900.67 hectares, including the Marsfontein mine itself.
Furthermore, the company successfully obtained environmental authorisation for one of its Thorny River mining permit applications in December 2024, demonstrating its commitment to responsible and sustainable mining practices.
The company’s ability to navigate the volatile diamond market and secure necessary permits demonstrates a strategic approach to long-term growth. While the timing of full-scale operations remains contingent on market conditions, the acquisition of the Thorny River mining permit represents a significant milestone for Botswana Diamonds, paving the way for potential future success.
