WATCH | Discussion | Government set to legalise artisanal mining

ERMELO - The push to formalise artisanal mining is getting stronger.

Artisanal mining known as ‘pick and shove’ refers to traditional mining operations done by individuals or groups without high-tech machines.

And those who want it to be legalised say it shouldn’t be confused with so-called Zama Zamas that have been involved in crime and have terrorized communities.

The artisanal and small-scale mining policy framework was introduced two years ago – but artisanal mining remains informal.

Government told the Council for Mineral Technology’s inaugural symposium this week that it is looking to revamp it’s license regime to make it easy for artisanal miners to operate legally.

Zethu Hlatshwayo who is the spokesperson for the National Association of Artisanal Miners.