Introduction

Within DNGM the Program for Minerals Resources Development was established in 1990, and was reorganised by the Council of Ministers in October 2002. The PDRM's mission is to carry out internal development work for DNGM, and for third parties on request.

The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) undertook work in Mali during the 1980s, and executed various prospecting projects in the gold district of Bagoe river. From these eff orts, PDRM inherited prospecting materials, laboratory equipment, and computer hardware and software. These tools assisted in the discovery of the Syama and Sadiola deposits, amongst others.

Unit and Services

PDRM includes a 'Maintenance' unit, and three branch services ('Exploration', 'Laboratory' and 'Geotechnical'):

• Maintenance unit: This unit is in charge of the follow-up and maintenance of the laboratory equipment, the maintenance of the refrigerating units, generators and electrical networks, repair of the DNGM's fleet of vehicles, and the tools and equipment for the laboratory and repair shop.
• Exploration service: This branch carries out all works related to geology and prospecting by use of geological, geochemical, and geophysical methods, as well as the drilling and surveying work. The PDRM owns three drilling rigs (JKS Boyles BB 25, Craeluis D 900 and Longyear 38), and an auger (maximum depth of 30 m).
• Laboratory services: This branch is in charge of the physical preparation of geological prospecting and mining samples, and subsequent assaying.
• Geotechnical service: Responsible for the execution of all geotechnical and hydrogeological works, and the sales of explosives and accessories for civil works.

top