Locals engaging in Alluvial diamond mining activities
Photo Credit: MOLME

Alluvial workings - An Overview

The process of alluvial diamond mining involves digging and sifting through mud, sand and gravel using shovels, sieves, or even bare hands. Typically, diamonds come from geologic rock formations called Kimberlites. Kimberlite rock formations that contain diamonds are eroded over time by rivers and streams and can deposit diamonds in the sediments carried by those streams farther downstream from the original source rocks. These deposits are called alluvial diamond deposits. The locations of these alluvial diamond deposits are controlled by the surrounding topography, drainage patterns, and the location of the Kimberlites themselves. Alluvial deposits are often mined and exploited by small-scale miners using artisanal mining techniques.

The Department of Mines, Mineral Resources Development and Conservation was severely constrained in executing its statutory mandate due to the ongoing sanctions imposed on the mining and exportation of rough diamonds and also by the lack of adequate security throughout the countryside.

The activities of the Department were limited to monitoring compliance with the UN Sanctions on diamond exporting/trading and mining.

To achieve this goal, the Department along with concerned entities made periodic visits to various alluvial mining sites within the country to supervise, control and monitor the alluvial sector, scrap handling and quarry operations.

The routine issuance of survey orders, mining and mining related licenses and deployment of Regional Coordinators, Mining Agents and Patrolmen was carried out during the period under review. A total number of 76 licenses covering all categories were issued generating revenue of US$25,330.00. A total of 501.74 ounces of gold was shipped to which a royalty of US$3,627.71 was applied.

The Department served on the Mineral Technical Committee for the negotiation of Mineral Development Agreements (MDA) for iron ore concessions.

Most of the local inhabitants earn some sort of income from the alluvial mining sector. 

Page last edited, October 2008