A new exploration and mining licence management system is helping companies operating in Namibia to manage all aspects of mine licences and regulatory requirements.

The system allows companies to monitor and manage the licences, as well as receive timely warnings of missing documents or regulatory needs, says mineral resource management specialist Minrom CEO Oscar van Antwerpen.

The software system supports smaller mining companies, and exploration and prospecting companies, in ensuring they not only meet minimum requirements for their licences, but also have a full record of all licence and permit documentation and processes.

This will also help them to attract capital, as they can readily provide the required documents and proof to investors to allow them to complete due diligence investigations quickly and accurately, he adds.

Minrom, which is currently involved in projects in Namibia, South Africa, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Saudi Arabia and Mozambique, is expanding the software to ensure it is able to also meet South African legislative requirements.

"South Africa remains a prominent mining country in Africa; with well over 400 mines and ready access to infrastructure, electricity, manufacturing and skills. However, the sector needs effective support platforms for exploration and junior miners such as those [available to companies listed on] the TSX and ASX.

"By helping exploration and junior mining companies to manage licences, risks and documentation, we aim to support and sustain increased exploration in Africa and South Africa, specifically," says Van Antwerpen.

"South Africa remains a mining country. Supporting exploration, prospecting and junior miners is necessary to develop local mining, manufacturing and industrialisation. This applies to our Southern African Development Community neighbours as well," he adds.