Maximising Positive Impacts of Mining Projects: Stakeholders and Partnerships

Photo: Media Club, Graeme Williams
Photo: Media Club, Graeme Williams

Despite the fact that mining-led growth is one of the few opportunities low-income African nations have of catching up with other countries, mining in Africa is not seen as creating local benefits. There is little co-operation among stakeholders in the minerals sector and long-term planning is poor.

Despite the fact that mining-led growth is one of the few opportunities low-income African nations have of catching up with other countries, mining in Africa is not seen as creating local benefits. There is little co-operation among stakeholders in the minerals sector and long-term planning is poor. To make a meaningful contribution, the mining sector must take into account the development imperatives in host communities. Infrastructural costs and benefits can be shared with other sectors, and strengthening non-governmental organisations (NGOs) can benefit companies by providing them with negotiation partners. It is also essential that every project includes a ‘good practice’ impact assessment. The experiences of a company in Central Africa illustrate how some blockages may be overcome. All stakeholders are important when planning a new mine, but this project fostered particularly good relationships with the local government, NGOs and village leadership, whose input increased the potential for more sustainable outcomes.

The views expressed in this publication/article are those of the author/s and do not necessarily reflect the views of the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA).

23 Jan 2015