Background
In 2023, the World Bank and the World Gold Council launched a partnership to promote sustainable and responsible artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM). The two institutions bring their respective strengths such as development expertise, financial capacity, market knowledge and stakeholder relationships to promote the objectives of the partnership. This initiative aims to balance development and security interventions, support host government strategies, invest in necessary infrastructure, and provide guidance to resolve social conflicts and criminality in gold mining operations. The partnership seeks to engage additional financial and technical partners, including large-scale gold mining companies, development agencies, IGOs, investors, and downstream actors.
Objectives
The MSPI aims in selected countries to:
- Support Governments and ASGM Entities: Nurture sustainable small-scale gold mining sectors in select countries.
- Promote Legal and Responsible Mining: Ensure small-scale gold mining leads on environmental and social stewardship.
- Foster Collaboration: Encourage host governments, large-scale mining (LSM) companies, ASGM actors, civil society and other technical partners to work together under a common governance framework.
- Mitigate Security Risks: Address governance and security risks posed by illicit gold flows.
- Encourage Sustainable Mining Practices: Promote climate-smart mining, gender equality, and mercury-free technologies.
Vision
By 2033, small-scale gold mining will contribute positively to national development by collaborating with governments, the private sector, and downstream supply chain actors to mine and sell gold legally and sustainably in the international market.
Scope and Phases
The MSPI will be implemented in two phases:
- Phase 1 (2023-2025): Establish national MSPI structures and pilot model small-scale gold mines in select countries of West Africa and Sahel.
- Phase 2 (2026-2033): Scale out the model to other countries and regions, solidify the regional knowledge-sharing platform, and ensure sustainability.
Key Components
1. Building Partnerships
- Leadership and Governance: Establish formal agreements involving host country governments and institutions, mining companies, the World Gold Council, the World Bank, and small-scale miners.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Ensure representation and transparent communication across all mining sectors.
- Governance Framework: Define clear roles and responsibilities, focusing on community and government involvement.
2. Creating Model Mines
- Collaboration: Governments, small-scale miners, large-scale operators and formal downstream actors work together to develop sustainable model mines.
- Support and Training: Mobilize technical expertise, financial aid, and training for small-scale miners on best practices and guide their output to the formal bullion market.
3. Sharing Knowledge Regionally
- Knowledge Exchange: Promote regional learning and sharing of best practices in sustainable mining.
- Stakeholder Forums: Organize regional events for dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders.
4. Monitoring and Scaling Up
- Evaluation Framework: Implement a system to monitor progress and adapt quickly.
- Risk Management: Develop strategies to address and mitigate risks in the unregulated market.
