Published: 12 hours ago

Aggregate Mineral Resources (AMR) is exploring joint venture opportunities and strategic partnerships aimed at upscaling small-scale mining operations, particularly in the gold sector, as artisanal miners now account for around 60% of the country's gold deliveries.

Founded in September 2022, AMR has positioned itself as a champion of sustainable mineral resource extraction in Africa, providing services that include consultancy, contract mining, equipment hire, shaft sinking, resource definition, and supply of mining consumables.

"We have identified a need, especially among small-scale gold miners, who contribute over 60% of gold output," AMR Managing Director Tendai Choto told NewsDay Business.

He noted that many of these miners lack funding, access to capital, and modern technology, which hampers mechanised operations and safe, responsible mineral extraction.

"So that at least they have mechanised operations and safe and responsible mining in terms of mineral extraction. Mining contributes about 12% to our GDP, and 70% of our foreign exchange earnings come from the sector, yet small-scale miners receive little deliberate attention," Choto said.

AMR plans to implement programmes designed to empower small-scale miners and increase their contribution to national gold output. "We know we can be a drop in the ocean, but we are willing to start this fire to show that private investments can make a difference," he said.

Choto emphasised that AMR's operations adhere to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, and the company aims to make a tangible economic impact through responsible mining practices.

The firm also partners with educational institutions to attract talent, including geoscientists and engineers, while providing work-related learning opportunities and creating business prospects that benefit the communities in which it operates.

"We create growth and strengthen communities with a foundation of resilient and inclusive operations," Choto said, highlighting AMR's goal of establishing a listed African resources conglomerate through innovative "blue ocean" strategies.

AMR's approach reflects a commitment to scaling up small-scale mining, promoting mechanisation, and contributing to the country's economic growth while nurturing sustainable and socially responsible practices.
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