Skip to content
diamonds1

Conducting a feasibility study for an artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) community development

All TDi Case Studies - 95

TDi Sustainability conducted a field-based feasibility study for an artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) community development project with the aim of benefitting the villages surrounding an industrial diamond mine in Tanzania. Using tailored, culturally appropriate multidisciplinary methods, the study explored opportunities and risks related to various modes of engagement with the ASM community surrounding the large-scale mine (LSM).

Feasibility study process

  • TDi’s experts developed a field research approach based on international best practice in ASM-LSM engagement. The methodology included extensive household surveys, ASM site evaluations, and local stakeholder consultations to confirm results.
  • The study team explored four possible options for an ASM community development project modelled on successful ASM engagements in other complex ASM-LSM contexts worldwide.
  • Additionally, two other possible interventions with artisanal miners in the community were suggested, including developing and implementing technical capacity building and establishing or augmenting existing village savings and loans associations (VSLAs) for making loans to community-level enterprises.

Recommendations and future contributions

  • The feasibility study resulted in several recommendations for the large-scale mine, including the development of a larger community development and investment programme, to which TDi was asked to contribute in 2023.
  • These recommendations aim to enhance community development and investment initiatives, ultimately benefiting the ASM community and contributing to responsible mining practices in line with leading standards and downstream expectations.
share