Ministry of Natural Resources – Department of Geological Survey: Request for Expression of Interest
Organisation: Government of Lesotho
Ministry: Ministry of Natural Resources
Department: Department of Geological Survey
REOI Reference: MNR/01/2026/2027
Opportunity: Comprehensive Geological Survey
Closing Date: 30 November 2026
Submission Time: 15:00 (Local Time)
1. Background
The Government of Lesotho, through the Ministry of Natural Resources, Department of Geological Survey, is seeking qualified institutions, research consortia or professional service providers to undertake a comprehensive geological survey in specified areas, which will be provided under additional information.
The initiative aims to generate high-quality geoscientific data to support sustainable resource management, environmental stewardship and socio-economic development, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and relevant international geoscience frameworks.
2. Objectives
The primary objectives of the assignment are to:
- Process and interpret historical data, including existing geochemical data.
- Conduct detailed geological mapping and stratigraphic analysis.
- Undertake geochemical and geophysical investigations.
- Compile, interpret and digitise geological data for integration into national and international databases.
- Identify and delineate mineralised areas for further investigations.
- Provide recommendations for sustainable resource utilisation and hazard risk reduction.
3. Scope of Work
The selected applicant will be expected to:
- Develop a detailed survey methodology consistent with international best practices.
- Carry out fieldwork, sampling and laboratory analysis.
- Ensure data quality control and assurance.
- Produce a comprehensive technical report and geospatial datasets.
- Present findings to stakeholders, including government agencies, academic institutions and other partners.
4. Funding Model
- The selected proponent will fully fund the survey and associated activities at their own expense.
- In return, the proponent will be granted a right of first refusal to negotiate exploration or development rights should commercially viable resources be identified.
5. Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must demonstrate:
- A proven track record in geological surveys, geoscience research or related technical fields.
- Access to qualified personnel, specialised equipment and laboratory facilities.
- Verifiable financial resources to undertake detailed exploration.
- A skilled, experienced and proven technical team of experts in exploration.
- An experienced management team with a track record of successfully executing similar projects.
- Experience working with international donors or multilateral agencies.
- Commitment to environmental, social and ethical standards.
6. Submission Requirements
Interested applicants should submit the following:
- Cover Letter: Outlining interest and suitability.
- Institutional Profile: Including legal registration and organisational structure.
- Technical Proposal: Detailing methodologies and work plan with clear timelines.
- Financial Proposal: Including a detailed budget in LSL/ZAR.
- Evidence of Past Performance: At least three relevant projects.
- References: From previous clients or partners.
7. Additional Terms and Conditions
- Any information and/or documents supplied to the Ministry before or during this request shall not be considered in evaluating the proposal. Companies should not refer to such information or documents in their responses.
- Failure to disclose material information, factual inaccuracies or misrepresentation of facts may result in disqualification.
8. Submission Instructions
Proposals must be submitted electronically in one PDF file to the following email addresses:
To: [email protected]
CC: [email protected]
Email Subject: REOI REF: MNR/01/2026/2027
Closing Date: 30 November 2026
Submission Time: 15:00 (Local Time)
9. Requests for Clarification
Requests for clarification should be directed to the Office of Procurement through:
Email: [email protected]
CC: [email protected]