Phosphate discovered in 3 provinces

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With mining prospect on the rise, it has been revealed that three islands in the country have phosphate deposits.

At a recent conference in Honiara, a senior official from the Ministry of Mines, Clinton Roga disclosed that phosphate is found in Ndai on Malaita, Bellona in Renbel and the Reef Islands in Temotu.

Phosphate refers to a rock or ore containing phosphate ions. Inorganic phosphates are mined to obtain phosphorus for use in agriculture and industry.

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There is currently no mining for phosphate. Director of Mines Nicholas Biliki says the price of phosphate is low compared to other minerals.

SBMOnline understands besides the discovery more prospects are needed to ascertain more details on the deposits and their viability.

Currently mining operations in the country are for gold and bauxite.

Meanwhile Biliki revealed that cobalt deposits are also found the country.

The Pacific Islands country of Nauru’s economy has been almost wholly dependent on phosphate.

News@SBMOnline2021