An in-depth analysis of the small-scale mining sector in West Africa, this volume examines its link with poverty, economic contribution and the dynamics of its operations and dependent communities.

In recent decades, Africa' poverty-driven artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector has attracted significant donor aid. To date, millions of dollars have been pledged toward the design, redesign and implementation of efficient equipment at sites, providing industry support services and improving the quality of life of subsistence operators. The majority of initiatives, however, have...