The Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Mathibeli Mokhothu on Saturday launched Thaba-Telle Mining sod turning at the event held in Mokhotlong.
Speaking at the event, Mr Mokhothu said he is honoured to launch this mine which he said will have positive impact on Basotho by creating jobs.
He said the mine which is owned by a Mosotho born in Mokhotlong is the second best in the country, adding that this is good news as Basotho will benefit from their natural resources.
Mr Mokhothu said it is expected that the mine will take more than 50 years and that it will help in the fight against high rate of unemployment and poverty.
Mr. Mokhothu expressed delight that there are number of mines to be launched in pipeline hence more job creation for Basotho.
He stressed that Mr Lehlohonolo Nthotho is the first Mosotho to own a mine saying most of the mines in the country are owned by the foreign companies therefore urged Mr Nthontho to secure some Jobs for the Mokhotlong Community.
Also speaking, the Minister of Mining, Mr Serialong Qoo said it is expected that mine will start its operations before the end of September.
He said that the mine will give preference to community of Mokhotlong unlike other mines, saying it is a privilege for a Mosotho to own a big mine like Thaba-Telle, he therefore expressed gratitude to Mr Mokhothu for giving a Mosotho an opportunity to own a mine.
On the same token, the Chief Executive Officer of the Mine, Mr Nthotho thanked the Ministry of Mining for their unwavering support and assistance during the process of issuing of the licence saying this launch wouldn’t be a success.
He said they are ready to take Mokhotlong to the next level saying it is their responsibility as the community.
 
By Staff Reporter: ‘Maphoka Likotsi