Where Altitude Tests Machines

Letseng Diamonds, one of the world’s leading producers of large high-value rough diamonds, has strengthened its operations with the addition of Volvo construction equipment supported by Babcock’s regional expertise and aftermarket capability.

Situated in the Lesotho highlands at over 3,000 metres above sea level, Letseng operates at one of the highest-altitude diamond mines in the world. The harsh climate, reduced engine performance at elevation and demanding production cycles make equipment reliability absolutely critical. For Director of Operations, Gideon Scheepers, selecting the right equipment partner required deep technical understanding and trusted local support.

“From our first interaction, Babcock offered fast responses and a clear understanding of our operating and maintenance requirements,” says Scheepers. “They applied themselves extremely well to ensure the machines were correctly specified for altitude and the harsh environment we operate in.”

Reliability that protects production

The new Volvo machines are deployed in primary production roles, moving run-of-mine ore from stockpiles into processing plants - an application where uptime has a direct impact on daily output and revenue.

“So far, uptime and reliability have been excellent. The machines are performing exactly as needed,” Scheepers notes. Babcock’s regional capability, particularly the Bloemfontein support team, has been central to the transition. “They are an expert team. Their on-site and regional support capability was a major factor in our procurement decision,” he says.
 

Aftermarket expertise that keeps operations moving

Scheepers describes Babcock’s parts availability, technical expertise and response times as “excellent all around”. Urgent support needs have been met quickly, helping the mine maintain production momentum.

While Letseng operates its own internal maintenance framework across its broader fleet, the mine benefits from Babcock’s remote monitoring capability and proactive performance guidance through Volvo’s telematics ecosystem.

Fuel efficiency that supports sustainability goals

As part of the Gem Diamonds Group, Letseng is committed to reducing emissions and operating responsibly within the natural environment. Improved fuel burn rates directly support these ambitions. “The Volvo machines have delivered exactly what was promised - higher productivity with lower fuel burn. Months into operation, the results are clear,” says Scheepers.

A partnership built on shared value

Beyond performance data, Scheepers highlights the overall collaborative value of the relationship.

“It’s been jointly beneficial for all involved,” he says. “The machines are comfortable, our operators are happy, and the cost of ownership - from service to fuel to uptime - has been exceptional. Combined with competitive capital pricing, the partnership has delivered value across the board.”