The Yaramoko mine in Burkina Faso also saw a 25% increase in production.

Nick Selby, who joined Lucapa in 2014, took the helm in August this year after former boss Stephen Wetherall stepped down.

The precious metals producer is on the shortlist of potential buyers.

An analysis of 29 domestic mining companies showed that combined net income slumped to 108 billion rand in their latest financial years, from a record 206 billion rand.

Only 22 countries in the world engage in rough diamond production.

South African platinum group metal miners are battling an electricity crisis that has impacted output and increased costs.

The mining giant has begun at Kumba Iron Ore, where 181 workers got notices and 141 jobs are expected to be cut.

Major construction works will begin after the rainy season which is about to start, and will take three years to complete.