Formalizing artisanal and small-scale mining in Mozambique: Concerns, priorities and challenges. (June 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hilson, Gavin; Mondlane, Salvador; Hilson, Abigail; Arnall, Alex; Laing, Tim
• Is Part Of: Resources policy. Volume 71(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-06
• Subjects: Artisanal and Small-scale Mining (ASM) -- Formalization -- Sub-Saharan Africa -- Mozambique; Mines and mineral resources -- Periodicals; Ressources minérales -- Périodiques; Ressources naturelles -- Gestion -- Périodiques; Environnement -- Politique gouvernementale -- Périodiques; 333.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.resourpol.2021.102001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4207

Abstract

Abstract: This paper reflects critically on efforts made to formalize artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) – low-tech, labour-intensive mineral extraction and processing – in Mozambique. Drawing on findings from interviews with policymakers, representatives from ASM associations and 200 individual miners, the paper captures the details of the country's ASM formalization experience. Findings reveal that despite showing considerable promise at first, the drive to formalize ASM in Mozambique, which spans three decades, has lost considerable momentum. A bureaucratic licensing scheme, overlapping responsibilities at the Estatuto Orgânico do Ministério dos Recursos Minerais e Energia (MIREME), and a shortage of information about miners have contributed to this slowdown. The themes underpinning the efforts to formalize ASM in Mozambique are not new but the case itself has its own unique nuances and storylines. Highlights: Provides and overview and surveys the impacts of artisanal and small-scale gold mining activities in Mozambique. Offers critical analysis on efforts made to formalize the sector's activities. Outlines the barriers inhibiting formalization of the sector's activities. Examines how to make artisanal and small-scale mining more of a centrepiece of Mozambique's development strategy.