Artisanal gold mining is often associated with the use of hazardous chemicals, which can present significant risks to both human health and the environment. In response to these challenges, BiVA has played a pivotal role in empowering miners in the districts of Busia and Buhweju to adopt responsible mining practices. These efforts focus on ensuring that miners can continue to extract gold while maintaining the health of the planet and the well-being of local communities.

Through BiVA’s guidance, miners have been educated on the importance of using safer techniques, minimizing harmful chemical usage, and following practices that protect the environment. The initiative emphasizes sustainable mining operations, which not only help preserve local ecosystems but also support the long-term livelihood of the miners themselves.

A key aspect of BiVA’s approach is the promotion of responsible mining activities, including the practice of refilling mining pits after they become unproductive. This practice helps to restore the land, prevent erosion, and reduce environmental degradation caused by abandoned mining sites. By encouraging miners to take these steps, BiVA is fostering a culture of responsible mining that can sustain both human health and the environment for generations to come.