Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) plays a critical role in Africa’s mining landscape, providing livelihoods for an estimated 40 million people across the continent.
From gold mining in West Africa to cobalt extraction in Central Africa, ASM contributes significantly to mineral production, particularly in rural areas where formal employment opportunities are limited.
However, the sector is often characterised by informal operations, limited safety standards, and environmental concerns, including land degradation and water pollution.
Governments and development organisations are increasingly working to formalise ASM activities through licensing, training, and access to finance. The goal is to improve safety, increase productivity, and integrate small-scale miners into formal value chains.
There is also growing emphasis on responsible sourcing, as global buyers seek to ensure that minerals are produced ethically and sustainably.
Formalising artisanal mining could unlock significant economic and social benefits, but will require coordinated policy efforts and stakeholder collaboration.