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MBABANE – His Majesty King Mswati III has authorised a local mining company to conduct a preliminary study into possible gold deposits in northern Hhohho.
The permission has been granted through the Minerals Management Board (MMB), the statutory body that advises the King on the management and allocation of mineral rights in the country.
The Board confirmed that Eswatini Ventures (PTY) LTD has received a licence to prospect for minerals, with gold identified as the primary target. The prospecting area is located at Horo, Mvembili, in the Hhohho Region.
The agreement was formally signed during a brief ceremony at Rambla’s in Mbabane.
The event was attended by the Chairman of the Minerals Management Board, Prince Guduza, as well as senior representatives of Eswatini Ventures.
The Minerals Management Board is established under the Constitution and plays a central role in the oversight of the country’s mineral resources.
Its membership includes the Commissioner of Mines, an engineer, an economist and a legal practitioner. Additional Board members are appointed by His Majesty on the advice of the Minister for Natural Resources and Energy.
The Board’s responsibilities range from reviewing applications for mineral rights to ensuring that companies adhere to national standards and environmental guidelines.
Speaking at the signing of the agreement, Eswatini Ventures Director Musa Magagula said the licence issued by the MMB gives the company permission to prospect for gold only at this stage.
Prospecting, he explained, involves searching for mineral deposits through methods such as experimental drilling and excavation, which help determine whether commercial mining is viable.
Magagula said operations are expected to begin in March 2026, following preparatory work that includes technical mapping and community consultations.
He emphasised that the project will be undertaken in close coordination with environmental authorities, who will conduct further assessments of the land to ensure compliance with environmental management standards and sustainable land-use practices.
Worth noting is that the Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) was last week granted a licence to mine coal.
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... fifteen locals to be employed for 1st phase
MBABANE – The first phase of the prospecting exercise is also expected to provide short-term employment opportunities for local residents.
Magagula said approximately 15 people from the Emvembili community will be hired once operations commence.
He added that the company would give priority to residents of the area during the recruitment process.
The first group of employees will include two local geologists, an administrative officer and personnel for human resources functions.
*Full article available in our publication
The Chairman of the Minerals Management Board (MMB) Prince Guduza (C) handing over the signed agreement to Eswatini Ventures after the signing. (Pic: Mlondzi Nkambule)