Lesotho

Lesotho has a well-established diamond mining industry that dates back to the early 1950s. The Letšeng Diamond mine located in the Maluti Mountains is the most famous diamond mine in the country. It is known for producing some of the world's largest and highest value diamonds. In recent years, diamond production has declined due to a decrease in diamond prices and escalating mining costs. Other minerals in Lesotho include limestone, clay, sand, gravel, and building stone, which are mainly used for construction purposes.

​

Besides diamonds, Lesotho has a small-scale coal mining industry. The coal deposits are mainly found in the western lowlands. Due to a lack of resources, the production of coal in Lesotho has remained limited. In addition, Lesotho experiences frequent water shortages, which has made the operations of some mining companies difficult. Despite the challenges, the mining industry remains a significant contributor to the country's economy, providing employment opportunities for thousands of Basotho people and generating revenue for the government.