Real-World Case Studies of Mining Transparency

Background:

• Zimbabwe established Community Share Ownership Trusts (CSOTs) in 2013 to ensure local communities benefit directly from mining activities.
• Mining companies are required to allocate 10% of their shareholding to CSOTs, with profits funding local development projects (e.g., roads, clinics, schools, water infrastructure).

Challenges:

• Many CSOTs have faced operational setbacks: mismanagement of funds, poor governance, and lack of tangible community benefits.
• Widespread allegations of corruption and misuse of funds have undermined trust in the initiative.
• The government has recently announced reforms to strengthen oversight, transparency, and support for CSOTs, including comprehensive audits and clearer regulations.

Key Lessons:

• Transparency and oversight are critical for ensuring community benefit.
• Public disclosure of mining agreements and financial flows is necessary to build trust and accountability.
• Effective governance structures and regular audits are essential to prevent mismanagement and corruption.

Background:

• Ghana’s ASM sector is a significant source of employment and local economic activity but has been associated with environmental degradation and informality.
• Recent reforms have focused on making ASM more productive, equitable, and environmentally responsible.

Key Initiatives:

• Multi-stakeholder dialogues involving government, miners, companies, NGOs, and academia have developed a roadmap for responsible ASM.
• Priorities include:
  • Streamlined licensing and operational processes.
  • Improved access to geological information and finance.
  • Recognition and empowerment of women and vulnerable groups in ASM.

Key Lessons:

• Collaboration among diverse stakeholders is vital for sector reform.
• Access to information and simplified regulatory processes help formalize and improve ASM.
• Empowering marginalised groups, especially women, strengthens sector legitimacy and sustainability.

Background:

• South Africa faces a legacy of improper mine closures, with many communities left exposed to environmental hazards and socio-economic decline after mining ends.

Key Issues:

• Regulatory failures and corporate impunity have led to abandoned mines and unfulfilled closure obligations.
• Communities and activists report:
  • Lack of recognition as stakeholders.
  • Insufficient consultation and consent.
  • Poor planning and implementation of closure processes.

Civil Society Response:

• Activists and community organizations have documented the impacts and advocated for policy reforms.
• Calls for:
  • Stronger legal frameworks.
  • Recognition of community rights.
  • Transparent, participatory closure planning.

Key Lessons:

• Community engagement is essential in mine closure planning.
• Robust regulation and enforcement are needed to prevent abandonment and ensure post-mining development.
• Civil society activism can drive policy change and accountability.