Another key concern is the use of mercury and other toxic chemicals in mining operations, which can lead to severe health risks as well as water pollution and ecosystem degradation. Finally, issues like child labor and lack of fair compensation are prevalent in many artisanal mining communities.

In the face of these severe challenges, we see a great and important opportunity to support artisanal mining by fostering responsible practices that help reduce its negative impacts and enhance its positive ones.

1. Helping a Female-Led Mine Site Go "Chemical-Free"

Chemicals such as mercury are often used to separate gold from waste rock. When mercury is introduced to gold-bearing ore or sediment, it forms an amalgam by chemically bonding with the gold particles, thus separating them from other elements. Mercury can be harmful both for the workers who come into contact with it—especially pregnant women and their babies—as well as for the environment.

However, it’s possible for mine sites to eliminate the use of mercury through a combination of technical insights and new technologies. With a $10,000 contribution, BRUNA is contributing to the introduction of low-tech, easy to use equipment at a female-run mine operation in Osiri Matanda, a large mining community in Western Kenya, to demonstrate the feasibility of alternative mercury-free processing techniques to the community and encourage a move away from harmful chemicals.

2. Supporting the Next Generation of Women Mining Engineers in Kenya

With a donation of $7,500, we're sponsoring an internship position for a female mining engineer and graduate of Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology to join The Impact Facility’s team of artisanal mining experts and engineers. Through mentoring, this young professional will become an expert in using diagnostic tools to identify investment needs and areas for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) improvements in partner mine sites. This support will enhance the skills and long-term career prospects of local female mining professionals and enable mining communities supported by The Impact Facility to receive comprehensive technical support.

About The Impact Facility

TIF is a UK-registered and Nairobi-based social enterprise committed to transforming mineral wealth into community prosperity. The enterprise works with artisanal and small-scale gold mining communities, helping them break the poverty cycle and improve safety, environmental impact, and economic performance through access to financing, cleaner mining technology, and global markets.

We’re partnering with The Impact Facility because of its entrepreneurial approach to artisanal mining. With its team of mine engineers and technical specialists, TIF supports local communities to improve social and environmental performance in line with international industry standards, while optimizing mine production and processes to help turn artisanal mining into a healthy, profitable business that can lift communities out of poverty.

What can I do to support artisanal mining communities?

• Choose Responsibly: When buying gold jewelry, choose pieces made from responsibly sourced gold. This supports miners who adhere to ethical and sustainable practices.
• Raise Awareness: Speak about the importance of responsible artisanal mining with your friends and family. The more awareness is raised, the more support responsible miners receive.
• Support Initiatives: Contribute to organizations that work towards improving the livelihoods of artisanal miners, promoting fair trade, and implementing cleaner and safer mining practices.