State, Mining Operators, and Local Populations in the Struggle for Control of Gold Mining in Manica, Mozambique

Joao Calaco, Carleton University (Canada)

The main factor in conflict in gold mining in the Manica district lies in political and social issues. Gold, in addition to being a resource, also expresses wealth and power among different actors competing for access to its exploitation. The State, in its mission to regulate the sector, faces a reality marked by tension and conflict with mining operators and local populations (women, men, youth, and children), who are there for the dream of wealth, but also as an alternative for survival. Three actors clash against each other in a fragile state immersed in multiple conflicts of interest, primarily involving political elites. This paper aims to discuss the dynamics of conflict in the ASM gold sector and the prospects it opens, based on the role that ASM recognition and community inclusion can play in establishing social peace and development in the Manica district.

This presentation is part of a series of three sessions on Global Mineral Governance, organized by Chris Huggins.