A Sustainable Future: Agroforestry as an Alternative to Gold Mining

On March 11, 2025, CELOS hosted a seminar on their agroforestry project in Compagniekreek and Brownsweg. This promising initiative is partially funded by the EMSAGS project, which is committed to sustainable development and environmentally friendly practices within the small-scale gold sector.

EMSAGS: Towards a More Sustainable Mining Sector

The EMSAGS project supports the government in formulating policies and adjusting laws and regulations to better regulate the small-scale gold sector. Additionally, the project strengthens institutions responsible for monitoring this sector and promotes the use of innovative technologies to reduce mercury pollution.

However, EMSAGS goes beyond just transitioning to mercury-free mining. The project aims to make local communities less dependent on unsustainable gold extraction by offering them alternative economic opportunities.

Agroforestry: A Promising Alternative

During her speech, Ms. Bihari, the EMSAGS project coordinator, emphasized the importance of this funding:

“An important and promising alternative livelihood is agroforestry. Agroforestry provides a sustainable and resilient way of life for local farmers and communities. This system enriches the soil, protects water sources, and increases biodiversity, rather than leaving behind a depleted and polluted environment. Moreover, agroforestry enables farmers to cultivate crops that generate a stable income. When farmers receive the right knowledge, gain market access, and benefit from favorable policies, they can strengthen their economic position without harming nature. And that is exactly why EMSAGS supports this valuable initiative!”

With this vision, the EMSAGS project contributes to a more sustainable future, where communities have a stable and environmentally friendly alternative to gold mining.