Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) is a vital livelihood for millions globally, accounting for up to 90% of the mining workforce. However, environmental, social, business, and labour challenges have limited its potential to contribute to sustainable development. In Zambia, mining businesses with an annual turnover below ZMW 50 million fall under the Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Unit at the Zambia Revenue Authority.

The ASM sector faces significant challenges. A recent census of development minerals, conducted by the Ministry of Mines and the ACP-EU Development Minerals Programme, found that of 109 mining sites surveyed across 10 provinces, 75% had legal licences, while many operators were unaware that a licence was required.

Unlike large-scale mines, which consistently report production through MOSES, compliance among ASM licence holders remains low.