Artisanal mining plays a critical role in Zimbabwe’s informal economy, offering employment to thousands amid widespread unemployment. Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) is defined as mining by individuals, groups, families, or cooperatives with minimal or no mechanization, often operating within the informal (and sometimes illegal) sector. A distinction exists between artisanal and small-scale mining, with artisanal miners relying on basic tools and limited technology to extract minerals such as gold, cobalt, tin, tungsten, and tantalum. These minerals are essential to global industries, supporting the production of electronics, aircraft, medical devices, and rechargeable batteries. However, despite its economic contributions, the sector faces significant challenges, including unsafe working conditions, environmental degradation, and exploitative practices such as child labor.
The Prevalence of Artisanal Mining in Africa
Artisanal mining is widespread across Africa, providing livelihoods to millions. Research estimates that over eight million people in sub-Saharan Africa work directly in ASM, while over 45 million depend on the sector. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), artisanal miners account for roughly 20% of the country’s cobalt production. Similarly, in Zimbabwe, ASM significantly contributes to the economy, generating over 60% of export revenues and over 13% of GDP.
In Ghana, ASM is responsible for about 30% of the country’s gold production, employing around one million people and supporting 4.5 million dependents. In Tanzania, small-scale miners contribute about 30% of the nation’s gold revenue, while in South Africa, ASM is expanding, providing an essential source of income amid high unemployment and poverty. Despite its economic benefits, ASM remains largely informal, raising concerns about sustainability, safety, and environmental impact.
Artisanal Mining in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe has a long history of artisanal mining, dating back to pre-colonial times when local communities mined gold, copper, and iron. Today, artisanal miners, known as ‘makorokoza,’ play a significant role in the gold mining industry. This sector provides employment opportunities, especially in rural areas where formal jobs are scarce, and contributes to national gold exports.
However, artisanal mining in Zimbabwe also brings challenges. The use of hazardous chemicals such as mercury poses severe environmental and health risks. Additionally, unregulated mining has led to violence, particularly with the emergence of gangs known as maShurugwi. These groups, often associated with illegal gold mining, have been linked to violent crimes, including assault and murder.
The Rise of MaShurugwi
The term ‘maShurugwi’ refers to violent artisanal mining gangs, originating from the Midlands towns of Shurugwi and Zvishavane. Over time, these groups expanded across Zimbabwe, using violent means to dominate illegal mining activities. Armed with machetes, spears, and firearms, maShurugwi gangs have been implicated in numerous crimes, including robbery, extortion, and murder, creating instability in mining communities.
Government Response to MaShurugwi
In response to the violence, the Zimbabwean government has taken several measures:
- Security Crackdowns: Deploying police and military forces to conduct raids and patrol mining areas.
- Legal Prosecution: Arresting and prosecuting gang members involved in criminal activities.
- Regulation and Licensing: Implementing stricter controls to formalize artisanal mining and reduce illegal operations.
- Community Engagement: Promoting alternative economic opportunities and formal training programs, such as those provided by the Zimbabwe School of Mines.
- Anti-Crime Initiatives: Launching operations like ‘Chikorokoza Ngachipere’ to combat illegal mining.
Economic and Social Impacts of Artisanal Mining
Despite its challenges, artisanal mining provides significant economic benefits. It offers direct employment, encourages entrepreneurship, and stimulates local economies. In some cases, revenue from ASM funds infrastructure projects, including schools and healthcare facilities.
For instance, in Tanzania, ASM revenues have been invested in mineral processing centers, while in Ghana, income from artisanal mining contributes to local economic activities. However, the sector’s informal nature often leads to exploitative labor conditions, environmental degradation, and conflicts over resources.
Balancing Economic Gains and Social Stability
The future of artisanal mining in Zimbabwe hinges on finding a balance between economic benefits and social stability. Formalization, environmental regulations, and community-driven initiatives are essential for sustainable growth. With the right policies and enforcement mechanisms, ASM can transition into a well-structured and legally compliant sector that benefits both miners and the broader economy.
As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with the complexities of artisanal mining, a holistic approach—integrating security, environmental management, and economic reforms—will be crucial in ensuring that the sector contributes positively to national development while minimizing its negative social and environmental impacts.
