Artisanal and small-scale mining, or ASM, is a largely informal economic sector that includes workers around the world who use basic tools to extract from the earth everything from gold and gemstones to vital metals such as cobalt, tin, tungsten and tantalum.

As long as the world demands these products, artisanal miners will continue to dig for the minerals they require, often under dangerous, exploitative conditions that include child labour and other human rights abuses. Artisanal mining is an important driver of development in communities from Africa to Asia, where there are often few other opportunities available for generating income.

We spoke to Zethu Hlatswayo, Spokesperson of the National Association of Artisanal Miners.

Artisanal and small-scale mining, or ASM, is a largely informal economic sector that includes workers around the world who use basic tools to extract from the earth everything from gold and gemstones to vital metals such as cobalt, tin, tungsten and tantalum.
As long as the world demands these products, artisanal miners will continue to dig for the minerals they require, often under dangerous, exploitative conditions that include child labour and other human rights abuses. Artisanal mining is an important driver of development in communities from Africa to Asia, where there are often few other opportunities available for generating income.
We spoke to Zethu Hlatswayo, Spokesperson of the National Association of Artisanal Miners.

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

Serious and topical issues on continent, breaking stories.

The Upside

Artisanal Mining in South Africa and the men and women behind it

As we celebrate Women's Month, we are shining a light on women whose work is changing industries, opening doors and creating opportunities for others. Throughout this month, we are giving flowers to female game changers whose journeys remind us that leadership is built through vision, resilience and a commitment to making a difference. Today, we celebrate a woman who has turned insight into impact, helping businesses and brands connect with people across Africa while championing innovation and meaningful growth.

Mbali Ndhlovu is an award-winning pan African growth strategist, market intelligence expert and founder whose work has influenced some of the world's biggest brands. With more than 15 years of experience spanning technology, media and digital innovation, she has built thriving communities, shaped successful campaigns, and strengthened partnerships across the continent. Her achievements have earned recognition from leading organisations and respected media platforms but at the heart of her work is a passion for understanding people and creating opportunities that leave a lasting impact.

As we celebrate Women's Month, we are shining a light on women whose work is changing industries, opening doors and creating opportunities for others. Throughout this month, we are giving flowers to female game changers whose journeys remind us that leadership is built through vision, resilience and a commitment to making a difference. Today, we celebrate a woman who has turned insight into impact, helping businesses and brands connect with people across Africa while championing innovation and meaningful growth.
Mbali Ndhlovu is an award-winning pan African growth strategist, market intelligence expert and founder whose work has influenced some of the world's biggest brands. With more than 15 years of experience spanning technology, media and digital innovation, she has built thriving communities, shaped successful campaigns, and strengthened partnerships across the continent. Her achievements have earned recognition from leading organisations and respected media platforms but at the heart of her work is a passion for understanding people and creating opportunities that leave a lasting impact.

From community builder to continental changemaker, celebrating Mbali Ndhlovu's impact across Africa

Hair loss affects millions of people and can have a significant impact on confidence, self esteem, and overall wellbeing. While it is often associated with ageing, hair loss can also result from genetics, medical conditions, hormonal changes, stress or years of wearing hairstyles that place excessive tension on the scalp. As more people look for solutions, interest in hair restoration procedures has grown, along with important conversations about choosing safe treatments and qualified medical professionals.
Advances in modern hair restoration have made it possible to achieve natural looking results through minimally invasive techniques that prioritise precision and recovery. Alongside surgical procedures, there is also growing awareness of non-surgical treatments that help preserve existing hair and improve scalp health. Joining us on the line is Dr. Kiéra Moodley, certified hair transplant surgeon specializing in Direct Hair Implantation at DHI South Africa

Hair loss affects millions of people and can have a significant impact on confidence, self esteem, and overall wellbeing. While it is often associated with ageing, hair loss can also result from genetics, medical conditions, hormonal changes, stress or years of wearing hairstyles that place excessive tension on the scalp. As more people look for solutions, interest in hair restoration procedures has grown, along with important conversations about choosing safe treatments and qualified medical professionals. Advances in modern hair restoration have made it possible to achieve natural looking results through minimally invasive techniques that prioritise precision and recovery. Alongside surgical procedures, there is also growing awareness of non-surgical treatments that help preserve existing hair and improve scalp health. Joining us on the line is Dr. Ki&eacute;ra Moodley, certified hair transplant surgeon specializing in Direct Hair Implantation at DHI South Africa

The truth about hair transplants and why choosing the right surgeon matters

Managing money is about far more than knowing what to do. Most people understand the importance of saving regularly, reducing debt, budgeting wisely and planning for the future. Yet good financial intentions are often challenged by everyday temptations, rising living costs, easy access to credit and the constant pressure to keep up with lifestyles presented on social media and in advertising.
This pattern is known as self-control bias, a behavioural tendency that makes it difficult to stay committed to financial goals even when we know they are in our best interest. Emotional spending, delaying savings and prioritising immediate wants over future needs can quietly shape our financial future. Joining us is Dr. Frank Magwegwe, Senior Lecturer at GIBS Business School (Gordon Institute of Business Science)

Managing money is about far more than knowing what to do. Most people understand the importance of saving regularly, reducing debt, budgeting wisely and planning for the future. Yet good financial intentions are often challenged by everyday temptations, rising living costs, easy access to credit and the constant pressure to keep up with lifestyles presented on social media and in advertising. This pattern is known as self-control bias, a behavioural tendency that makes it difficult to stay committed to financial goals even when we know they are in our best interest. Emotional spending, delaying savings and prioritising immediate wants over future needs can quietly shape our financial future. Joining us is Dr. Frank Magwegwe, Senior Lecturer at GIBS Business School (Gordon Institute of Business Science)

Artisanal Mining in South Africa and the men and women behind it

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