Large-Scale Mining and Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Partnerships for Sustainable Socio-Economic Development in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The study focuses on the partnership between Large-Scale Mining (LSM) and Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) as a pathway to address the challenges of informal ASM in mineral-rich communities. It highlights the collaboration between Pickstone-Peerless Mine (PPGM) and ASM operators under the Bluestreak Mining Cooperative (BMC) in the Chegutu district of Zimbabwe, with the goal of formalizing ASM activities to benefit local communities and the broader economy. The research seeks to provide empirical evidence and a practical model for such partnerships, which are lacking in documentation, particularly in the context of Zimbabwe. The partnership model is proposed to increase the socio- economic impact of ASM and allow the government to efficiently harness economic gains from mineral resources. Using qualitative and quantitative methods, the study assesses stakeholder perspectives and the partnership's socio-economic significance, advocating for LSM-ASM partnerships to formalize ASM operations and citing benefits like improved control, coexistence, and mutual advantages. While the PPGM-BMC collaboration has made progress in formalizing ASM and enhancing environmental and social responsibilities, further enhancements are needed for sustained community impact. Recommendations include alternative extraction methods, rehabilitation plans, and long-term sustainability plans, with future research directions exploring economic models for low-free-gold ores and LSM-ASM partnerships' role in transitioning away from mercury use, ultimately promoting sustainable mining practices and improving ASM community livelihoods.