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Why is there a large-scale mining ‘bias’ in sub-Saharan Africa?

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  • Hilson, Gavin

Abstract

This paper reflects critically on the state of mining sector-led development in sub-Saharan Africa. It argues that in most countries in the region, policies are ‘biased’ in favour of large-scale extraction. World Bank officials have long maintained that, in sub-Saharan Africa, the large-scale mines financed and operated by foreign multinationals could become ‘growth poles’ which stimulate marked economic development. For this to happen, however, radically different policy approaches will be needed − changes which, up until now, the region’s governments have shown little interest in making.

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  • Hilson, Gavin, 2019. "Why is there a large-scale mining ‘bias’ in sub-Saharan Africa?," Land Use Policy, Elsevier, vol. 81(C), pages 852-861.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:lauspo:v:81:y:2019:i:c:p:852-861
    DOI: 10.1016/j.landusepol.2017.02.013
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    7. Baffour-Kyei, Vasco & Mensah, Amos & Owusu, Victor & Horlu, Godwin S.A.K., 2021. "Artisanal small-scale mining and livelihood assets in rural southern Ghana," Resources Policy, Elsevier, vol. 71(C).
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