Zimbabwe’s artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector is a lifeline for thousands of families. Yet, despite its importance, many of these miners remain unrecognized, operating in an informal and often illegal space. It’s time to change that. For Zimbabwe to build an inclusive and sustainable mining sector, the artisanal miners must be brought into the fold and given the support they need to thrive.

What is Artisanal Mining?

Artisanal mining is characterized by small groups of individuals using low-cost, labor-intensive methods to extract minerals. In Zimbabwe, this sector is huge, making up a significant portion of the mining workforce. However, it is mostly driven by poverty and the lack of industrial opportunities in other sectors. Artisanal miners often have little to no formal training, relying on basic tools and techniques to extract valuable resources.

Unfortunately, the informal nature of the sector creates complications. Since most of these operations are not officially registered, they lack proper oversight. This leads to a longer, more complex supply chain where accountability and transparency are lost. The result? Zimbabwe loses more than $4 billion in revenue due to illicit financial flows in the mining industry.

The Legal Gap: No Recognition for Artisanal Miners

Small-scale miners in Zimbabwe are somewhat recognized under the Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill, which defines them as operating on claims of no more than 40 hectares and employing fewer than 50 people. However, artisanal miners remain completely unrecognized. This means they don’t have access to the legal protections, training, and resources they need to work safely and productively.

The lack of formal recognition has serious consequences. Artisanal miners are pushed to the margins, working in unsafe conditions without access to financial or technical support. More importantly, this exclusion perpetuates occupational segregation, locking out a significant portion of Zimbabwe’s workforce from contributing meaningfully to the economy.

Why This Matters for Sustainable Development

The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 8 emphasizes inclusive economic growth, productive employment, and decent work for all. If Zimbabwe is to achieve this goal, artisanal miners cannot be left out. Recognizing and integrating them into the formal mining sector would not only boost the economy but also improve livelihoods, promote safe working conditions, and reduce illicit activities.

Learning from Regional Leaders: Zambia’s Artisanal Mining License

Zimbabwe isn’t the only country facing challenges in regulating its artisanal mining sector. Neighboring countries like Zambia have made great strides in including artisanal miners in their legal frameworks. Zambia’s artisanal mining license is a good example of how to bring miners into the formal economy while ensuring environmental protection and resource conservation.

This framework provides a blueprint for how Zimbabwe can structure its own artisanal mining policies. Zambia’s system focuses on:

• Defining citizenry (ensuring only local citizens can apply for licenses)
• Commitment to environmental protection
• Proper resource management through regulated mining operations

Other countries like Ghana, Rwanda, Nigeria, and South Africa have also successfully integrated artisanal miners into their formal mining sectors, proving that it is not only possible but essential for sustainable growth.

A Roadmap for Zimbabwe

So, what can Zimbabwe do to better support its artisanal miners? Here are a few steps that could make a big difference:

1. Local Licensing: Creating district-level licenses for artisanal miners would help keep track of their activities while ensuring that they operate legally and responsibly.
2. Environmental Stewardship: Miners could be required to follow environmental protection guidelines as part of their licensing, promoting sustainability in the sector.
3. Training and Support: Institutions like the Zimbabwe School of Mines and organizations such as the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA) can offer training programs that equip artisanal miners with the skills they need to operate more efficiently and safely.
4. Engaging Stakeholders: A multi-sector approach that brings together government bodies, mining companies, civil society, and the miners themselves can create a system that promotes responsible mining while fostering inclusive growth.

The Role of the Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill

Zimbabwe’s Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill already contains provisions aimed at supporting small-scale miners, such as promoting sustainable practices, enforcing safety regulations, and providing advisory services. However, it could go further by extending these protections and resources to artisanal miners. By doing so, the government can ensure that all miners are working under safe, regulated conditions and that they contribute to the country’s overall development.

Looking Ahead: Towards a Sustainable Mining Future

The artisanal mining sector in Zimbabwe has long been overlooked, but that doesn’t mean it’s without potential. With the right support and regulatory framework, artisanal miners could play a major role in the country’s economic and sustainable development. Recognizing their contributions and formalizing their operations could help Zimbabwe reduce illicit mining activities, improve worker safety, and increase its mining revenues.

Ultimately, by embracing the artisanal mining sector, Zimbabwe can take a significant step towards achieving its sustainable development goals and creating a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.

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