Supporting Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining in Rural Africa

Amsha Africa Foundation (AAF) actively collaborates with rural communities engaged in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) in Africa.

Our objectives for these mining communities are:

Provide technical assistance and access to financing to enhance productivity, while ensuring social protection and fair labor standards.
Promote integrated rural development strategies by fostering the interplay between mining and other aspects of local economies.
Pilot clean supply chains and fair trade minerals to promote responsible practices throughout the supply chain.
Establish fair trade market linkages locally and internationally, ensuring that local communities receive fair value for their mineral resources.

Together, we can empower and uplift rural mining communities in Africa.

Empowering Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) for Sustainable Livelihoods

Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) plays a vital role in approximately 80 countries worldwide, including every country in Africa.

With around 100 million artisanal miners globally, as estimated by the World Bank, ASM accounts for significant proportions of various mineral supplies.

It contributes to 80% of global sapphire, 20% of gold mining, and up to 20% of diamond mining. While the sector is often characterized by low productivity due to its informal and unmechanized nature, it serves as a crucial livelihood and income source for impoverished local communities.

In rural areas of developing countries, ASM sustains the existence of millions of families, supporting approximately 100 million people and their families compared to around 7 million in industrial mining globally.

By supporting ASM, we can create sustainable livelihoods and uplift communities in developing countries.

Promoting Collaboration and Innovation for Sustainable Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM)

Our project team embraces a cross-disciplinary approach, bringing together academics from various fields including social sciences, engineering, health, and humanities. With a collaborative network spanning the United States, Kenya, and Tanzania, we actively engage and leverage the expertise of miners and mining stakeholders in the development of context-driven solutions.

We recognize the importance of local knowledge, skills, and technologies possessed by miners and stakeholders, such as national and local governments, mining associations, community-based organizations, non-governmental organizations, local communities, and religious organizations.

By co-creating bottom-up solutions, we aim to address the challenges posed by Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) comprehensively.

Our collaborative efforts are focused on mitigating the environmental impact of ASM activities, improving occupational health and safety measures, and enhancing the social inclusion and overall well-being of miners and local communities.

Through inclusive and participatory approaches, we strive to foster sustainable practices, promote responsible mining, and ensure the long-term resilience of both the natural environment and the livelihoods of those involved in ASM.

Mining Locations

Our project team represents a diverse cross-disciplinary collaboration, bringing together academics from the fields of social sciences, engineering, health, and humanities.

With a presence in the United States, Kenya, and Tanzania, we actively engage with miners and mining stakeholders, harnessing their local knowledge, skills, and technologies.

By working closely with national and local governments, mining associations, community-based organizations, non-governmental organizations, local communities, and religious organizations, we co-create context-driven, bottom-up solutions. Our primary goal is to address the challenges associated with Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) comprehensively.

Through our collaborative efforts, we aim to mitigate the impact of ASM activities on the natural environment, prioritize occupational health and safety, and enhance the social inclusion and overall well-being of miners and local communities. By incorporating local perspectives and expertise, we strive to develop sustainable practices that align with the unique contexts of ASM operations.

Our project emphasizes the importance of participatory approaches, empowering stakeholders at all levels to contribute to the development and implementation of responsible mining practices.

By fostering sustainable solutions, we aim to create a positive impact on the natural environment, ensure the health and safety of miners, and promote the overall welfare and social cohesion of local communities affected by ASM.

Community-Owned Mines: Unveiling Rare Gemstones from Local Mineral Veins

Discovering a Diverse Array of Mined Gemstones

See the Notable Finds Below From Our Supported ASM Communities

Tsavorite: The Enchanting Green Gemstone

Tsavorite garnet, one of the world’s most sought-after and rare gemstones, captivates with its enchanting forest green hue.

Within a few years of its discovery, it has gained tremendous fame and popularity. As an emerald green variation of grossular garnet, tsavorite garnet is highly versatile and suitable for various types of jewelry.

Its exceptional beauty allows it to be faceted into a multitude of captivating designs, further enhancing its allure and desirability.

Ruby: The Rare Gemstone of Captivating Beauty

Ruby, one of nature’s most precious and exceedingly rare gemstones, holds immense value in the world of gemology.

Within the mines supported by AAF, pockets of ruby deposits have been discovered. Renowned for its captivating colors, ranging from rich brownish-red to vibrant hues reminiscent of ripe raspberries, ruby exhibits exceptional hardness, surpassed only by diamonds, and boasts an irresistible brilliance.

The combination of its extraordinary beauty, remarkable durability, and dazzling sparkle make ruby a truly remarkable gemstone.

Chrome Tourmaline: The Radiant Green Gemstone

Chrome tourmaline, a relatively recent addition to the extensive tourmaline family, was first discovered in Tanzania during the 1960s.

This gemstone has quickly captured the attention of collectors worldwide. Renowned for its vibrant green color, chrome tourmaline possesses a brilliance that can rival even the most exquisite emeralds.

With its captivating hue and stunning radiance, chrome tourmaline has become a coveted gemstone among enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

Tanzania Purple Garnet: The Rare Gem from East Africa

A true marvel of nature, Tanzania Purple Garnet is a remarkable and scarce variety of garnet that has been discovered in Kenya and Madagascar.

With prices ranging from approximately $500 to $3,000 per carat, the value of this gemstone depends on factors such as size, color, and overall quality. Renowned for its mesmerizing purple hues, Tanzania Purple Garnet stands as a rare hybrid gem within the garnet family.

Its scarcity and unique beauty make it a highly sought-after gemstone, treasured by collectors and gem enthusiasts worldwide.

Merelani Mint Garnet: The Prized Gem with a Refreshing Green Hue

Merelani Mint Garnet derives its name from the renowned region of Tanzania where it was first unearthed, and its distinguishing feature is the captivating light green color that gem collectors ardently admire.

This gemstone, with its refreshing and invigorating hue, has become highly sought-after in the world of gemology.

As a testament to its allure, Merelani Mint Garnet continues to enchant gem enthusiasts and collectors with its unique and delightful green shade, adding a touch of elegance to any jewelry piece it adorns.

Mahenge Peach Garnet: The Exquisite Rarity in Three Enchanting Hues

Mahenge Peach Garnet, an exceptionally stunning and exceedingly rare gemstone, offers a mesmerizing beauty that captivates all who encounter it.

Available in three distinct and breathtaking hues, namely imperial (an orange-pink reminiscent of Imperial Topaz), purplish-pink, and purple, this gemstone stands as a testament to nature’s artistic prowess.

Each hue showcases its own unique charm, contributing to the allure and exclusivity of Mahenge Peach Garnet.

Whether it’s the warm tones of imperial, the delicate allure of purplish-pink, or the captivating depth of purple, this gemstone represents an extraordinary and coveted addition to any jewelry collection.

Tanzanite: Unveiling Nature's Vibrant Spectrum

Tanzanite, with its captivating allure poised between lush blue, vibrant violet, and deep purple, is an exotic gemstone that can be found in a singular location on our planet—near the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro.

This extraordinary gemstone, renowned for its mesmerizing colors, offers a spectrum of hues that are truly a gift from nature.

From the tranquil shades of blue to the electrifying violets and the profound depths of purple, tanzanite’s cut unveils a vibrant and diverse range that enchants all who behold it.

Embodying the essence of elegance and rarity, tanzanite stands as a testament to the remarkable beauty that nature can bestow upon us..

Clear Garnet: The Pure Translucent Beauty

Clear Garnet, a captivating gemstone of exquisite elegance, showcases a pristine translucency that sets it apart.

With its remarkable clarity and pristine appearance, Clear Garnet captures the essence of pure beauty.

This enchanting gemstone possesses a radiant allure that can range from a delicate pale hue to a brilliant, colorless transparency.

Known for its captivating luster and pristine nature, Clear Garnet exemplifies timeless elegance, making it a cherished gemstone for those seeking a touch of refined sophistication.

Ethics and Transparency: Our Commitment to Responsible Gemstone Sourcing

AAF holds an unwavering commitment to ethics and transparency in every aspect of our business, particularly when it comes to sourcing gemstones.

We go above and beyond industry standards to ensure that every gemstone we promote and sell can be traced back to its exact mine and miner.

By diligently tracing the journey of each gemstone, we strive to provide our customers with complete confidence and peace of mind. Our dedication to responsible sourcing extends beyond mere compliance, as we firmly believe in supporting ethical practices and fostering positive impact within the gemstone industry.

With our commitment to ethics and transparency, we aim to set a new standard, empowering customers to make informed choices while promoting sustainable and fair practices throughout the supply chain. We take pride in our efforts to create a positive impact and uphold the values that align with our customers’ desire for responsible and trustworthy gemstone options.

Key Results for Our Objectives: Driving Sustainable Growth and Empowerment

1 Establish Fair Trade Partnerships: Our aim is to identify and collaborate with five fair trade partners based in the US who can import gemstones sourced from our community miners by the end of 2023. Through these partnerships, we seek to create avenues for ethical and transparent gemstone trade, ensuring fair prices for our community miners.

2 Expand ASM Partnerships: By January 30, 2024, we aspire to expand our Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) partnerships to three additional communities in East Africa. Through these partnerships, we aim to empower more communities, providing them with opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and improved socio-economic conditions.

3 Establish an Online Marketplace: Our objective is to create a secure and legally compliant online marketplace where our ASM community can trade their mined gemstones at fair trade prices. By offering a dedicated platform, we will enable our community miners to connect directly with buyers, fostering transparency and fair practices in gemstone transactions.

4 Sponsor Gemology Certification: To empower and uplift our ASM community leaders, we plan to sponsor five individuals to pursue certification as gemologists in local colleges by June 30, 2024. This initiative will enhance their knowledge and expertise in gemstone evaluation, promoting professional growth and unlocking new opportunities.

5 Provide Essential Equipment: By December 30, 2023, we aim to support our ASM community organizations by providing them with three compressors. These compressors will enhance mining efficiency, enabling safer and more productive operations for our community miners.

Through these key results, we are committed to driving sustainable growth, promoting ethical practices, and empowering our ASM communities, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for all involved.

Partnerships: Join Us in Making a Difference

We invite you to be part of our project and make a meaningful impact in the lives of our community miners. Whether you are interested in becoming a fair trade buyer or a sponsor for one of our key results, we welcome your partnership.

To explore partnership opportunities, please visit our website or reach out to us at admin@amshaafrica.org. We are excited to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations who share our commitment to ethical practices and sustainable development.

Together, we can create positive change and empower artisanal and small-scale mining communities.

Join us on this journey of transformation and make a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.

Mining Locations and Exquisite Gemstones

Take a glimpse into the captivating world of small-scale mining in the Taita Taveta region of Kenya, where stunning gemstones are unearthed.

Here are actual pictures showcasing the mines and the remarkable gemstones discovered in this region.

At AAF, we are proud to collaborate with our partners in training these dedicated miners on safer and more sustainable mining methods.

Our efforts also include equipping them with efficient and modern tools, empowering them to thrive in their craft while ensuring minimal environmental impact.

If you are passionate about any aspect of this project, whether it be supporting the miners, promoting ethical gemstone trade, or participating in sustainable mining practices, we invite you to reach out to us. Together, we can create a positive and lasting impact on the lives of these miners and the gemstone industry as a whole.

Contact us today to learn more and be a part of this remarkable journey.