The Namosi copper mine will be granted mining licenses by June 2012 to begin mining and production.

This follows the near completion of the Environmental Impact Assessments and other assessments carried out in the area.

The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources permanent secretary Filimone Kau said the mine has exhausted exploration work and is on the verge of becoming a fully operational mine.

Government anticipates the Namosi mine to be a billion dollar project pumping in the much needed revenue that can be converted to infrastructure and technology development.

Meanwhile the department of Mineral Resources is anticipating another find with huge prospects - the Tuvatu Gold mine which is located 50km north east of the Vatukoula Gold Mine.

Mineral Resources Director, Malakai Finau said the prospects of Tuvatu gold is estimated to earn billions in foreign exchange.  


Story by: William Waqavakatoga