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Paper short abstract:

This article examines the operations of informal small-scale miners, exploring the patronage networks that exist between themselves, connected business moguls, and the political elites. It explores how this intricate web of relations has led to violence in the Shurugwi District of Zimbabwe.

Paper long abstract:

Zimbabwe has, in recent times, witnessed an upsurge in violent clashes among artisanal gold miners, and these clashes have often led to fatalities. Commonly referred to as Makorokoza, small-scale artisanal gold miners have often been involved in violent contests over gold mining claims which have instilled a sense of insecurity among rival artisanal miners, prospective new entrants to the industry, and citizens residing in areas nearby the mines. Within this context, this article examines the operations of informal small-scale miners, exploring the patronage networks that exist between themselves, connected business moguls, and the political elites, and how this intricate web of relations has led to violence in the mineral rich Shurugwi District of Zimbabwe. Engaging relevant literature on resource extraction in the global south, particularly Richard Auty’s resource curse thesis and de Certeau’s theory of ‘the everyday’ and drawing from ordinary people and miners’ oral recollections, lived experiences, and written primary sources, the study demonstrates that underlying this violence by and among local artisanal miners are broader contestations between politically exposed business tycoons. Hence, localized violence among rival groups has been a microcosm of broader economic agendas by invisible but very powerful players. Moreover, by delineating the operations of these cartels and how they contribute to conflict and violence in communities, the article argues that the mining cartels and networks have also profited from the vague legal framework governing the industry.