The US Department of State has granted funding to Pact, a nonprofit organization, to expand its efforts in artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) in Africa. This initiative aims to reduce mercury usage, enhance supply chain transparency, and promote sustainable practices in the gold mining sector.
Key Goals of the Initiative
Pact will utilize the funds to address several critical issues in the ASGM sector:
- Mercury Reduction: Focused efforts in Mali’s ASGM industry to minimize the use of mercury in gold mining.
- Transparent Supply Chains: Developing a responsible gold-trading report analyzing barriers and proposing strategies for formalizing trade in Mali.
- Anti-Smuggling Measures: Establishing a monitoring committee to prevent illegal gold smuggling in West Africa.
Additionally, Pact plans to launch a project in Tanzania to reduce the combined use of mercury and cyanide in gold ore processing.
Transforming the ASGM Sector
ASGM contributes 20%-30% of the world’s gold production but is responsible for nearly 40% of mercury emissions. Pact’s director of responsible mining, James McQuilken, highlighted the broader impact of this funding:
“By partnering with governments, industry, and community-led groups, we’ll strengthen their capacity to adopt mercury-free technologies, improve safety, and formalize operations.”
The initiative will also address gender disparities, focusing on the disproportionate impact of mercury exposure on women miners and showcasing their often-overlooked roles in the sector.
Supporting Local Communities
Pact already supports 1,700 miners in southwestern Mali, prioritizing:
- Reducing gold smuggling.
- Preventing conflict financing.
- Advancing formalization of ASGM operations.
The funding will further boost productivity, transparency, and environmental stewardship, positioning ASGM as a more sustainable contributor to global gold supply chains.
This US-backed initiative aims to transform the ASGM sector into a safer, more equitable, and environmentally sustainable industry.