Mobility, temporary migration and changing livelihoods in Zimbabwe's artisanal mining sector. Issue 3 (July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mkodzongi, Grasian; Spiegel, Samuel J.
• Is Part Of: Extractive industries and society. Volume 7:Issue 3(2020)
• Page Start: 994
• Page End: 1001
• Publication Date: 2020-07
• Subjects: Temporary labour migration -- Mobility -- Livelihoods -- Zimbabwe; Mineral industries -- Periodicals; Gas industry -- Periodicals; Petroleum industry and trade -- Periodicals; 338.205
• DOI: 10.1016/j.exis.2020.05.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2214-790X

Abstract

Highlights: Mobilities within and across provinces show that mining is transforming rural livelihoods during a period of an economic crisis. Mobilities are key to the way the poor negotiate access to natural resources. Mobilities are also a form of resistance against exploitative labour relations that underpin ASGM. ASGM, is an important pathway for livelihoods for a large number of both rural and urban residents. Mobilities, can also be conceptualised as a form of resistance against exploitative labour relations which dominate the sector. Abstract: This article examines mobility and trans-local livelihood practices linked to artisanal mining, exploring how movement in diverse socio-economic circumstances has profoundly shaped development dynamics in Zimbabwe. Following the fast-track land reforms in Zimbabwe, mobility across resettled large-scale (formerly white-owned) commercial farms created space for reshaping livelihoods across the country, and opened up mineral access to local populations. Beyond understanding mobility linked directly to land reform, we stress the need to appreciate diverse subsequent, interlinking and highly dynamic influences on mobility – as well as what mobility enables. We draw on ethnographic data gathered in three research sites in Mhondoro Ngezi district, in central Zimbabwe, analysing some of the changing socio-economic relations, exploitation concerns and opportunities linked to mobility and artisanal mining activities. As economic challenges have continued to multiply, the importance of artisanal mining – in many regions of the country – has intensified. Understanding mobility requires attention to both temporary and less temporary migration patterns and differentiated ways in which social networks and economic labour arrangements, including risks of mistreatment and new economic possibilities play out. We especially argue for more attention to varied forms of youth mobility and domestic migration around gold mining amid Zimbabwe's deep economic challenges.