This paper analyses current policy and legislation in relation to the praxis of artisanal gold mining in Mozambique. Approximately 20,000 people are involved in artisanal mining in central Mozambique, producing annually 480–600 kg of gold, 85–90% of which remains in the informal economy. The current legislation, however, is inadequate: artisanal mining is supposed to take place in predetermined “designated areas”, none of which are gold-rich, and, artisanal miners are supposed to get an individual mining pass from provincial authorities, which rarely occurs.

In India, mining is one of the main economic activities since time immemorial, giving rise to a long historical tradition of artisanal mining. As modern mining rose during the colonial occupation, artisanal mining activities began to be overlooked and this great tradition became obscure.

Skyrocketing mineral prices are fuelling a mining boom for which few developing nations are prepared, says William Laurance.

Present gold-producing centres of India have witnessed ancient and modern mining activities. The presence of wood logs, ash, charcoal and pottery in ancient gold mines of Kolar, Hutti and Uti suggests fire setting was the main mode of gold exploitation of ancient miners.