How artisanal mining empowers communities in East Africa and the social impact of buying responsibly sourced jewelry
Monica Gichuhi is a “rock star”.
Why?
Because she saw the challenges that artisanal and small-scale miners face in East Africa and tackled them.
This touches on aspects including legal protections of artisanal mining, conflict, human rights, and gemstone education via PACT and GIA’s illustrated book “Selecting Gem Rough: A Guide for Artisanal Miners” to enable more equitable pay in the supply chain - for both men and women.
Consumers are familiar with the word “sustainable”, but “responsible” sourcing is a more meaningful goal because this encompasses what is good for people, the environment, and the viability of a thriving local economy achieved through vertical integration.
Sit in as Monica shares her powerful work - including encouraging and empowering women in artisanal and small-scale mining communities in Africa!
What actions can consumers take?
Ask your designer or local jeweler to source your gemstones through the below marketplaces that support artisanal mining communities, which are creating greater opportunities for WOMEN.
With All The Brilliants, imagine creating a bespoke jewel that is a true TalisWOMAN - it can be mined by women, cut by women, and designed by women! Email Melissa to explore the possibilities.
• VirtuGem is a virtual mine-to-market platform founded by women to achieve equitable supply chains, empowerment of all people, and respect for communities and the environment in Zambia and Malawi.
• Moyo Gemstones empowers women miners in Tanzania to work safely, mine better, improve financial security, and create stable, equitable markets for fair trade.
• Donate any amount to PACT, which supports the operations of the Moyo Gems program.
Keep your questions coming!
Please comment with your questions below or email Melissa.
If you are a designer, jeweler, or gem buyer interested in sourcing ASM gemstones, connect with Monica Gichuhi at monica@agecafrica.com
If you would like to learn more about PACT’s important work around the world, connect with Cristina Villegas at cvillegas@pactworld.org
A special THANK YOU to Cristina Villegas for permission to share images via PACT.
