Sustainable Equity For Artisanal Gold-Miners
Agora Collective provides artisanal gold-miners an opportunity to safely, securely and seamlessly maximize the return they receive for their efforts. Our model focuses on supporting sustained socio-economic development in the countries and communities where gold is found. It creates well-paid jobs, valuable tax revenues for host governments and generates sustained benefits for local communities. Ultimately returning equity back to where it belongs.
‘The society of the open marketplace as near to untainted by theft, assault, and fraud as can be humanly attained is as close to a free society as can be achieved. And a free society is the only one in which each and every one of us can satisfy his or her subjective values without crushing others’ values by violence and coercion.’
Focus on ASGM
Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Miners
Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) occurs in more than 80 countries, sustains the livelihoods of 15m to 20m people and accounts for 20% of annual newly mined gold supply (Source notes). Artisanal and small-scale (ASM) miners make up 20% of global gold supply each year, with this figure rising to almost half when looking specifically at West Africa.
Growth of ASGM
-
Many ASGM operations take place outside of legal frameworks. The use of mercury in the production of gold is a particular concern, as it can lead to environmental issues and health problems. Having to sell the gold below market leaves next to nothing to invest in eco-friendly practices.
-
Many ASGM operations take place outside of legal frameworks. The use of mercury in the production of gold is a particular concern, as it can lead to environmental issues and health problems. Having to sell the gold below market leaves next to nothing to invest in eco-friendly practices.
-
Most of the ASGM sector operates in unregulated conditions, meaning workers are excluded from the financial and safety benefits of industrial practice, and the government misses out on profits these workers could bring. Lack of transparency also increases the potential of nefarious actors.
-
Low margins and lack of tax dollars to reinvest in the community limits the potential long-term positive economic impact of the industry. With more of the transactions happening with disinterested foreign governments there is no reinvestment in the community or local infrastructure.
Platform For Wealth Creation
