Building a Responsible, Inclusive, and Mercury-Free Future for Artisanal Miners and Communities.
The Institute for Responsible Artisanal Mining (IRAM) is a non-profit community organization dedicated to advancing the transformation of Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) in South Africa.
We work at the intersection of environmental justice, community empowerment, and public health advocacy, focusing on:
-Supporting the implementation of South Africa’s ASGM National Action Plan (NAP) under the Minamata Convention on Mercury.
– Raising awareness about mercury use in mining and cosmetic products, in partnership with the Zero Mercury Working Group (ZMWG) global coalition.
Through activism, advocacy, training, and partnerships, we amplify the voices of artisanal miners and local communities — helping them transition to mercury-free livelihoods and sustainable mining practices that protect both people and the planet.
Governance and Structure
IRAM is guided by a dedicated team and an active governance structure:
- Board of Directors: Provides oversight and strategic leadership.
- Executive Director: Leads organizational strategy and partnerships.
- Program Managers: Oversee ASGM & Environmental Justice, Public Health & Mercury Awareness, and Policy & Advocacy.
- Community Liaison Officers: Coordinate local-level engagement.
- Communications and Research Team: Manage outreach, data, and publications.
