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Overview

The service allows a company to retain a previously prospected mineral concession area, where the mineral deposit could not be mined on a profitable basis at the time of application. It gives the holder the opportunity to apply for a mining licence to commence mining operations in the prospected area once the conditions improves.

Who is eligible?

 Businesses  only.

How do I get this service?
  • Download, complete the Retention Licence Application Form and submit with supporting documents to the nearest office.
  • Obtain a Prospecting Licence from Department of Mines.
  • Conduct a Bankable Feasibility Study on the mining and processing the mineral deposit discovered.
  • Obtain surface rights from the land authority or land owner with a stamped sketch plan showing coordinates.
  • Obtain authorization for Environmental Impact Assessment from Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA).
  • Obtain Archaeological Clearance with location coordinates from Department of National Museum and Monuments (DNMM).
What supporting documents are required?
  • Parent company guarantee.
  • Certificate of incorporation.
  • Company documents and identity documents of directors and shareholding.
  • Bankable Feasibility Study report.
  • Proposed rehabilitation programme.
  • Letter of surface rights.
  • Letter of authorisation from DEA.
  • Letter of authorisation from DNMM.
  • If applying within a conservation area, clearance from the Department of Wildlife and National Parks.
  • Copy of prospecting license, or a retention license, or a prospecting waiver.
How long will this service take?

Thirty (30) days.

Where can I obtain this service?

Department of Mines

Plot 61920, Block C

Letsema Office Park

Private Bag 0049

Gaborone

Botswana

Tel: (+267)3657000

Email:mines [at] gov.bw (mines[at]gov[dot]bw)

Opening Hours: 07:30 to 12:45 and 13:45 to 16:30 Monday to Friday, except public holidays 

Where can I get more information on this Service

Department of Mines

Plot 61920, Block C

Letsema Office Park

Private Bag 0049

Gaborone

Botswana

Tel: (+267)3657000

Email:mines [at] gov.bw (mines[at]gov[dot]bw)

Opening Hours: 07:30 to 12:45 and 13:45 to 16:30 Monday to Friday, except public holidays 

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