Creating a platform for dialogue, networking, and sustainable development in Botswana's mining sector since 2019. Join us in shaping the future of artisanal and small-scale mining.
The Small Scale Miners Association Botswana (SSMAB) was registered in February 2022, creating a platform for dialogue and networking among stakeholders in the Small Scale Mining Sector.
We aim to provide a platform that brings together stakeholders working in the ASM sector to share experiences, learn from each other, and influence policies. Our membership is open to all individuals and companies who share our values and objectives.
We recognize the need to highlight challenges and opportunities in Small Scale Mining, especially for women. Through benchmarking from other African countries, we aim to develop practical solutions for the sector in Botswana.
It has become crucial for Botswana to diversify and create a mining sector that harnesses the potential of Artisanal Small Scale Mining (ASM) to advance integrated and sustainable local socio-economic development.
The Association's aims and objectives are designed to empower Batswana in the mining sector and promote sustainable development.
Promote speaking with one voice in the industry by Small Scale Miners & Stakeholders.
Influence decision making in the industry leading to growth and empowerment of Batswana.
Promote participation of Batswana, especially women in downstream diamond industry.
Promote adherence to best practices in environmental issues, licensing, rehabilitation, etc.
Give the Small Scale industry growth that will positively contribute to Botswana's economy.
Advocate for training and skills transfer in cutting, polishing, and jewellery segments.
Our leadership team brings together expertise from various fields to guide the Association's mission.
Founder & President
Vice President & Manager
Secretary
Vice Secretary
Interim Public Relations Officer
Interim Treasurer
Our achievements and the value we provide to our members
Over 25 members attended short courses through Stargems Botswana diamond training institute in 2024.
Organized fully sponsored courses in India through the Indian High Commission for beneficiation & value addition training.
Regular engagement with Gabz FM to discuss opportunities, challenges, and events in the small scale mining sector.
Active engagement with international partners to develop training programs for youth and women in mining.
Systematic training and development through incubation programmes and international partnerships.
Access to courses through Gemmological Institute of America and other training institutions.
Access to mining licenses and industrial minerals applications by the Association.
Attendance at mining investment events, conferences & exhibitions with exposure to new technologies and investors.
Our participation in regional events and strategic partnerships for skills development
Date: 24-27 June 2024 | Venue: TajPamodzi, Lusaka, Zambia
What They Offer: BQA-accredited TVET short courses in Renewable Energy, Solar Installation, Digital Skills, Workplace Readiness, Waste Management, and Business Skills.
Member Benefits: Access to accredited certification, skills development opportunities for youth and women, potential sponsorship for courses.
Duration: 2 Years (Renewable)
Contact: Plot 59000, Block 7, Gaborone | +267 78418805 / 72662161 | Info.InstituteofEnergy@gmail.com
What They Offer: Secure digital platform connecting miners with global buyers, investors, and off-takers.
Member Benefits: Global market access, transparent and ethical mineral trade, local beneficiation support, access to 13-country SAASMA network.
SAASMA Countries: Angola, Botswana, DRC, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe
Duration: 5 Years | Signed: 29 January 2026
What They Offer: Cutting-edge integrated solutions to streamline mining operations, plus logistical support for SSMAB events.
Member Benefits: 15% commission on successful referrals, access to technical equipment, branding support for events.
NIS Responsibilities: Pay 15% commission within 7 days of payment, provide event support, transparent reporting.
SSMAB Responsibilities: Promote NIS to members, refer potential clients, allow branding at sponsored events.
Duration: 5 Years | Proposed: 10 February 2026
Contact: Andries Tshegofatso Malebe | netiadco@netiad.co.za | +27 73 340 7398
Key focus areas driving our vision for the future
We spearhead strategies to foster gender diversity in mining by addressing barriers to entry and advocating for policies that unlock women's potential. Through mining investment conferences and Women's Mining Associations, we create platforms for intellectual discussions and new business contacts. We boldly advocate for ambitious beneficiation policies enabling women to participate in Diamond Jewelry Manufacturing and retail.
SSMAB intends to be a clean energy focused Association. We plan to develop a solar power station to produce an initial 100MW, with potential to produce up to 200MW. The project includes installation of 400,000 PV panels within 200 hectares. This station will supply our planned cement & quicklime project in Gasita, southern Botswana. We're engaging with leading energy system integrators like Wärtsilä to transform towards 100% renewable energy utilization.