Africa to Pilot Sustainability Bond to Formalize Artisanal Mining
A new sustainability bond aimed at integrating artisanal miners into formal supply chains is set to be piloted by a Canada-based advisory firm and a mid-tier Zambian copper miner. Artisanal mining, which provides livelihoods for millions globally, often operates informally, impacting company profits and national revenues. The 'stakeholder prosperity bond' developed by Veridicor and Zambia's Metalex Commodities seeks to professionalize artisanal miners rather than displace them. The bond links investor returns to social and environmental outcomes rather than output. The initial issuance aims to raise $100 million to $200 million to help Metalex integrate artisanal miners through regulated agreements and shared infrastructure. 
