Compiled by Nesia Mhaka

Manicaland, Zimbabwe, is a rich tapestry of natural resources, with small-scale mining playing a pivotal role in its economic landscape. However, despite their significant contributions to the country’s GDP, small-scale miners often face myriad challenges that hinder their full potential. This was highlighted during a Provincial Mining Indaba, held in Mutare by the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA), Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) and Zimbabwe Coalition on Debt and Development (ZIMCODD).  

Small-scale miners form the backbone of Manicaland’s mining sector, extracting minerals such as gold, diamonds, and chromite. Despite being on a smaller scale, their operations collectively have a substantial impact on the region’s economy. According to recent statistics from the Zimbabwe Chamber of Mines, small-scale miners contribute a significant portion to the country’s overall mineral production and export earnings.

This was emphasised by ZELA deputy director Shamiso Mtisi who explained how small-scale miners play a vital role in the economic growth of Manicaland and – consequently – the country, saying their tireless efforts and entrepreneurial spirit, ensured the sector’s contribution to national GDP, including providing livelihoods for countless families.

“Small-scale miners are the unsung heroes of our mining sector. However, their resilience and determination have often been overshadowed by larger mining corporations. It is time we recognize their importance and provide them with the necessary support and resources they require to thrive,” said Mtisi.

Similarly, stakeholders emphasized the importance of empowering small-scale miners to unlock their full potential. This included improving access to financing, technical expertise, and access to modern mining technologies which emerged as critical areas requiring immediate attention. On these aspects, many small-scale miners indicated that they operated with limited resources and used outdated techniques that hindered their productivity and sustainability.

In line with this, the government of Zimbabwe has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting artisanal and small-scale miners (ASMers) who play a crucial role in the economy, with approximately 60% of the gold delivered to Fidelity Gold Refinery – the nation’s sole buyer and marketer of the precious metal – originating from small-scale mining operations. This substantial contribution to the gold sector directly impacts the overall GDP of the nation.

The ASM sector’s economic significance is also illustrated by its inclusion in the 2024 budget statement which allocated Z$2.7 billion to support the capacitation and formalisation of the sector. The statement noted that small-scale miners have played a pivotal role in the mining sector, contributing significantly to the overall mineral output over the years. Indeed, as far back as 2016, the gold mining sector, including both large scale, artisanal and small-scale mining (ASGM), accounted for 2.6% of Zimbabwe’s gross domestic product (GDP). Additionally, it represented 18% of the country’s total exports, 28% of the mining output, and 1% of government revenues (in the form of royalties). Moreover, ASGM alone employed 7.1% of the labour force, further highlighting its role in job creation and livelihoods.

The Provincial Alternative Mining Indaba in Mutare, therefore, served as a major node in bringing the urgent need to capacitate small-scale miners to the fore, based on their substantial contributions to Manicaland’s economy.

Comment

It is, therefore, undeniable that the ASM sector needs to be supported and consensus that collaboration between small-scale miners and large mining companies could yield mutually beneficial outcomes. Big mining companies possess vast resources, technical expertise, and infrastructure that could support and enhance the operations of small-scale miners. By providing access to training, equipment, and market linkages, big mining companies can help small-scale miners improve their efficiency, safety standards, and environmental practices.

Additionally, fostering partnerships between small-scale miners and big mining companies promotes inclusivity and equitable distribution of wealth within the mining sector. Rather than viewing each other as competitors, collaboration enables both parties to leverage their respective strengths for shared prosperity. This approach aligns with sustainable development goals and contributes to the broader socio-economic advancement of Zimbabwe as a whole.

While ASGM is widely acknowledged to contribute significantly to economic growth and the development of Zimbabwe’s economy, there is need for further evidence regarding the precise scale of this contribution and how it has evolved. In-depth research and data analysis are essential to gain a comprehensive understanding of the impact of ASMs, including their economic value, employment generation, and potential for sustainable development.

By refining the existing data and conducting comprehensive studies, policymakers and stakeholders can make informed decisions and implement targeted strategies to support and empower ASMs effectively. This includes providing them with access to resources, training programs, and financial assistance to enhance their productivity, adopt responsible mining practices, and improve their overall well-being.

It is imperative for stakeholders, including government agencies, mining associations, financial institutions, and civil society organizations, to work collaboratively to address the challenges facing small-scale miners. Policy reforms, access to finance, and capacity-building initiatives are essential components of a holistic strategy to support small-scale mining communities.

Empowering small-scale miners will have far-reaching positive effects. Increased productivity and improved mining practices will not only enhance the livelihoods of the miners and their families but also contribute to the overall economic growth of Manicaland. The collective efforts of small-scale miners will result in a significant boost to the country’s GDP, employment rates, and export revenues, further strengthening Zimbabwe’s mining sector.