Strategies for stimulating socio-economic growth from small-scale mining operations in Qwaqwa (South Africa).
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Date
2008
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Abstract
The socio-economic importance of small-scale mining in a developing country such as
South Africa cannot be overstated. Millions of rural people trapped in abject poverty
and disappointingly high unemployment, where the availability and accessibility to
natural resources like sandstone is at their doorstep should never be allowed to remain
poor and starve if job creation and poverty alleviation take precedence in both local and
national agendas. It is against this backdrop that this pilot case study was initiated, the
primary objective of which was to recommend tailor-made strategies for developing
and stimulating socio-economic growth from small-scale mining operations in
Qwaqwa. In order to do this a literature review was conducted, strategically aiming at
establishing what was already known and in place on the subject through prior research.
The process that ensued entailed designing a systematic blue print on the process of
collecting, analysing and interpreting data about small-scale mining in the area. The
study used multiple sources of evidence in the form of statistical analysis of the
questionnaires, personal interviews, site observations and various documents to indeed
confirm the indispensable nature of small-scale mining in the socio-economic fibre of
rural communities.
In order to stimulate socio-economic growth from small-scale mining, the formation of
cooperatives for structured and coordinated assistance, favourable and encouraging
regulations and policies, innovation, communication and publicity, product and market
development strategies as well as the adoption and nurturing of small-scale mines by
big conglomerates are some of the strategies postulated.
Description
Thesis (M.B.A.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville, 2008.
Keywords
Mineral industries--South Africa., Theses--Business administration.