The session presents an overview of the topic "Science, Technology, and Innovation in African Sustainable Minerals Development," focusing on the African Minerals and Energy Resources Classification Framework and Management system (AMREC), Pan-African Reporting Code (PARC), which was developed within the framework of the United Nations Framework for Mineral Resource Classification (UNFC), and Blockchain technology. The session highlights the relevance of these frameworks and technologies in modernizing the Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) sector in Africa, enabling miners to operate within the minimum standards of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). It provides key objectives and expected outcomes for the session, emphasizing the promotion of responsible mining practices, sustainable development, and capacity-building in the ASM sector.
This session aims to explore the role of Science, Technology, and Innovation in African Sustainable Minerals Development. It will specifically focus on how the African Minerals and Energy Resources Classification Framework and Management system (AMREC), Pan-African Reporting Code (PARC), developed within the United Nations Framework for Mineral Resource Classification (UNFC), and Blockchain technology can support the modernization of Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) in Africa, ensuring compliance with minimum standards of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG).
The key objectives of this session include:
- Showcasing the significance of implementing AMREC-PARC in the ASM sector, emphasizing the adoption of UNFC guidelines, which provide a standardized and internationally recognized approach to the classification and reporting of mineral resources. This will enable transparent and accountable management of mineral resources, promoting responsible mining practices and compliance with ESG standards.
- Exploring the potential applications of Blockchain technology in ASM, focusing on its ability to enhance transparency, traceability, and trust within the supply chain. By implementing Blockchain solutions, stakeholders can verify the origin of minerals, track their journey from mine to market, and ensure adherence to ESG standards, promoting sustainable and responsible sourcing.
- Discussing the capacity-building efforts necessary to support the modernization of ASM in Africa, emphasizing the need for knowledge transfer, technical assistance, and training programs. The session will address strategies for empowering artisanal miners with the necessary skills, tools, and resources to operate within the minimum standards of ESG, enabling sustainable development and economic growth in the sector.
The expected outcome of this session is to foster fruitful discussions and collaborations among key stakeholders, including governments, mining companies, international organizations, civil society groups, and local communities. Through these discussions, participants will gain insights on the potential benefits and challenges associated with the implementation of AMREC-PARC and Blockchain technology in ASM. The session aims to encourage the development of practical solutions, policy recommendations, and partnerships that will help drive sustainable minerals development, responsible mining practices, and improved livelihoods in the ASM sector in Africa.
