MMERE is working to establish laboratory
BY SAMIE WAIKORI
The Ministry of Mines, Energy and Rural Electrification (MMERE) is working towards establishing a laboratory to enhance its capacity to determine the values, quality and quantity of minerals being exported.
Speaking in Parliament last week, Minister for Mines (MMERE), Derrick Manuari made the statement, highlighting this milestone achievement for the mineral sector of the country.
He said, with regards to progress across the ministry, the Geological Survey Division has achieved major milestones, including the procurement of modern analytical and geochemical laboratory equipment.
“I know this is a concern that has been raised, given our incapacity to determine the value, the quality and quantity of our minerals that are being exported.
“Some of the equipment has been procured and some will be procured soon. A critical infrastructure that has been highlighted in the national budget,” the Minister stated.
In light of the initiative, he added that the ministry through its Geological Division has completed preparatory works for the National Geochemical Laboratory.
“This laboratory, as we all know, once fully operational, will significantly reduce our dependence on overseas testing.
“It will accelerate exploration timelines and strengthen minerals valuation and compliance verifications,” the minister emphasized.
Manuari thanked the Central Tender Board for approving submissions by the Ministry for the procurement of specialised and laboratory equipment worth more than SBD $5 million.
He emphasized that the laboratory will modernise and enhance the capability of the current geochemical lab to support the mining sector.
On the same note, the minister also announced that the Geological Subdivision has also completed upgrades to the Geohazard Monitoring and Disaster Readiness Systems.
“This is a development of hydrology and groundwork data platforms, and updates of minerals occurrence maps across Solomon Islands.
“The initiative established collaboration with regional and national institutions and organisations to enhance geological research and mapping, which will improve access to advanced data and technology and support better management of earth resources and geohazards,” he said.
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