Bench mining method utilizing manual labour and mechanized equipment – a proposed mining method for artisanal small-scale mining in central Africa

Artisanal mining is basic mining characterized by manually intensive work methods utilizing primitive or simple equipment conducted by individuals or small groups working either illegally, or when legally sanctioned, exploiting deposits too small to constitute a mineral resource. Artisanal mining in Rwanda and Burundi is further complicated in that the mining techniques applied are often inadequate, with low productivity and poor recoveries, workers are paid low wages, and owners are reluctant to reinvest in the operations. A consequence to this vicious circle is that working conditions are often poor, with miners operating under unsafe and/or unhealthy working conditions, with the additional problem of mining in a manner that is detrimental to the environment. Artisanal mining is commonly more dangerous than large-scale modern mining operations. Artisanal operations are generally subsistence activities, with the miners focusing more on immediate concerns than the long-term consequences of their activities. When miners have no other source of income, they will usually find ways to evade controls and carry on working. The introduction of machinery is expensive and is often far beyond the reach of most artisanal miners, and therefore there is a general tendency for workers to focus on labour-intensive and riskier mining methods. This paper proposes the introduction of small-scale mechanization with labour-intensive manual mining utilizing a bench mining approach in artisanal mines operating in central Africa. From the 1950s to 1980s, bench mining was successfully conducted in Burundi utilizing manual labour. In order to achieve a balance between job creation and project economics, a combination of manual and mechanized mining is proposed. Manual mining offers the benefit of local job creation, while providing good mining techniques such as minimizing mining loses and dilution. Through the introduction of mechanized loading and hauling, areas of high stripping ratios can be viably mined, thus increasing the resources that can be exploited. The use of a loader and tractor-trailer arrangement is proposed, thereby improving throughput, productivity, and workers safety, and reducing the impact on the environment