By Delicia Janneire
John Applewhite-Hercules, a local geologist with extensive experience in the mining sector, has initiated a groundbreaking endeavor to support small-scale miners in Guyana.
His newly launched consultancy and training company, Artisanal Small Gold Miners Guyana (ASGM), aims to provide technological expertise and training to enhance the operations of small miners.
ASGM seeks to educate miners on various minerals encountered during mining activities, with a particular focus on gold.
Additionally, the company offers training in essential skills such as prospecting, sample retrieval, geo-referencing, and mapping.
By equipping miners with these skills, ASGM aims to empower them to improve their efficiency and productivity.
During the launch of ASGM, a symposium was held to delve into critical topics such as electromagnetic surveys, subsurface imagery, environmental geohazards mapping, and best practices in artisanal mining.
This platform provided valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration among stakeholders in the mining sector.
Applewhite-Hercules emphasized the importance of government support for artisanal mining initiatives.
He also highlighted the potential for partnerships with financial institutions and equipment suppliers to provide further assistance to small-scale mining projects.
Drawing on successful models implemented in Africa, ASGM aims to replicate similar achievements in Guyana.
The establishment of ASGM signifies a significant step forward in supporting the development of the small-scale mining sector in Guyana.
Through its consultancy and training services, the company seeks to promote sustainable mining practices while fostering economic growth and empowerment within local mining communities.