On November 18, 2024, the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), in partnership with the Oheneba Poku Foundation, officially launched the Africa Responsible Mineral Sourcing Initiative (ARMSI) at the Dubai Precious Metals Conference, held at the JAFZA One Convention Centre in Dubai, UAE.

Championing Responsible Sourcing and Sustainable Mining Practices

The ARMSI aims to unite Countries, Industry, Civil Society and Communities to establish a responsible mineral sourcing ecosystem across Africa, beginning in the 17 AMSG Founding Member Nations. At its core, ARMSI focuses on responsible sourcing of Africa’s minerals in a way that respects human rights, promotes environmental protection, and tackles critical issues such as forced labor, child labor, human trafficking, and slavery within the supply chain. This initiative is a direct response to the global call for more ethical practices in the mining sector and the adaptation and implementation of the OECD Guidance on Responsible Supply Chains.

A Collaborative Effort Toward Transparency and Accountability

The launch event brought together key stakeholders from across the globe, highlighting the shared commitment to responsible mineral sourcing in Africa. Ministers and officials from African nations such as Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Malawi, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, and Uganda participated, along with representatives from international organizations, central banks, financial institutions, mining companies, refineries, traders, investors, civil society organizations, and leaders in the global precious metals industry.

Key Objectives and Roadmap

The ARMSI aims to promote:

• Transparency: Clear and traceable supply chains for responsible mineral sourcing.
• Compliance: Alignment with international standards for ethical sourcing.
• Accountability: Monitoring and reporting to ensure that all stakeholders uphold their commitments.
• Social Responsibility: Improving the social and economic conditions of mining communities.
• Sustainability: Protecting the environment and promoting long-term benefits for Africa’s people and resources.

To achieve these goals, AMSG will roll out the Africa Responsible Mineral Sourcing Guidelines and a comprehensive manual. Sub-regional stakeholder engagement forums will be organized across Africa to further engage with local communities, mining companies, and industry leaders.

A Transformative Shift for Africa’s Mining Industry

H.E. Moses Micheal Engadu, Secretary-General of AMSG, emphasized that ARMSI represents a transformative approach to redefining Africa’s role in the global mining industry. By incorporating artisanal and small-scale miners into responsible sourcing practices, ARMSI is shifting the focus from raw material exportation to value-added industry development. This shift will foster local employment, stimulate economic growth, and enhance Africa’s competitiveness in the global market.

Invitation to Join the Initiative

AMSG invites governments, industry players, and civil society organizations to join the Africa Responsible Mineral Sourcing Initiative (ARMSI) in promoting responsible sourcing, ethical and sustainable mining practices across Africa. This collaborative effort underscores the collective commitment to responsible sourcing and sustainable development in the mining sector.

For more information or to get involved, please contact:

Mr. Patrick Mulindwa
Chief of Staff, Africa Minerals Strategy Group and CEO, Africa Responsible Mineral Sourcing Initiative
Email: [email protected]

Together, let’s build a responsible mineral sourcing ecosystem that benefits Africa and the world.