Vosarogo takes charge of Namosi licence renewal

All matters pertaining to Namosi Joint Venture’s prospecting licence renewal will be dealt directly by Lands and Mineral Resources minister, Filimoni Vosarogo.

It is the second case of its kind since Mr Vosarogo brokered the longstanding challenge at Mount Kasi, after which he was traditionally welcomed by the landowners in a show of support for government development.

The ministerial intervention under Rabuka’s second administration points to championing the restoration of full itaukei ownership.

Namosi Joint Venture (NJV) at Namosi, the prospect was renewed three times, on five-year terms.

Special Prospecting Licence 1420 was granted to NJV for the Namosi prospect back in 2010. The latest extension exploration expired on the August 2023.

“NJV, currently managed by Newmont, has applied for another extension for three years,” Mineral Resources Department director, Apete Soro said.

“All matters pertaining to this application is being dealt by the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources.”

Amex Resources Ltd Amex Resources Limited have two tenements.

“The exploration licence SPL1463 has lapsed on the October 1, 2022, and following assessment the exploration licence was cancelled,” Mr Soro said.

“However, the tenement holder has appealed the cancellation of the licence, and the matter is before the Mining Appeals Board.”

Earlier this week, it was reported that the renewal for Special Prospecting Licence SPL1495 in Sigatoka under consideration. Some native landowners have raised concerns regarding the exploration project. Magma Mines had met all requirements for operations in Kulukulu.