2011年-世界发展银行全球_Yemen_-_The_Mineral_Sector___Analysis_of_Potential_and_Governement_Action_Needed_to_Spur_Development_3页_262kb

MNA Knowledge Notes Summary: Lessons from Analytic & Advisory Activities in Yemen

Introduction

This document summarizes the findings from an analytic and advisory study on the potential of Yemen's mineral sector for sustainable economic growth and poverty alleviation. It was conducted in 2011, building on a main sector report from June 2009. The study highlights the need for government and donor support to overcome constraints and realize the sector's potential.

Core Content

Promising Mineral Potential

Yemen has significant geological potential for metallic and industrial minerals, with notable deposits of natural stones, gold, zinc, nickel-copper-cobalt, titan magnetite, and rare earth elements. The zinc deposit at Jabal Salab is under development, and Vale has committed to funding exploration of the Suwar deposit. The natural stone industry is already substantial and could benefit from improved efficiency, quality, and market awareness.

Sector Development Opportunities

• Natural Stone Sector: Considered ripe for rapid development with international assistance.
• Industrial Minerals: Potential for exploitation by small and medium-sized enterprises, though market opportunities and commercial feasibility require further investigation.
• Metallic Minerals: Requires exploration and investment, especially in gold, zinc, and other strategic minerals.

Main Constraints

1. Infrastructure: The road system is under development, but due to the challenging topography, construction will be costly. An ambitious railway project from Sana'a to the south coast is proposed to improve transport to external markets.
2. Social Aspects: Tribal land claims and regional instability, particularly in northern Yemen, complicate access to mineral resources. Mining companies must engage with local communities to build trust and support.
3. Government Capacity: Regulatory institutions lack experience in managing large-scale mining operations and need capacity building in mineral economics, market analysis, and social and environmental management.

Key Recommendations for Support

The study outlines several objectives and measures for supporting the mineral sector:

Objectives

• Enhance the natural stone sector through improved efficiency, quality, and market understanding.
• Strengthen government capacity to support local enterprises and regulate the sector effectively.
• Encourage local participation in mining activities and promote a mining culture.
• Attract investment through better knowledge of mineral occurrences and their commercial potential.
• Develop small-scale mining in Yemen with appropriate programs.
• Improve skills development in regulatory institutions.
• Address infrastructure limitations through strategic investments.

Proposed Activities

• Section 10.1: Strengthen the regulatory framework and build institutional capacity.
• Section 10.2: Enhance GSMRB's understanding of mineral occurrences and commercial potential.
• Section 10.3: Promote small-scale mining and local engagement in the sector.
• Section 10.4: Develop skills in regulatory institutions through training and instruction.
• Section 10.5: Improve the competitiveness of the natural stone sector through processing and quarrying.
• Section 10.6: Assess infrastructure investment needs to connect mineralized areas to markets.

Government and Policy Initiatives

• The draft National Mining Policy has been prepared with support from the World Bank Group.
• A mineral strategy is being developed as part of the country's broader development plan.
• A new mining law was recently approved, signaling government commitment to the sector.

Conclusion

Yemen's mineral sector holds significant potential for economic growth and poverty reduction, but its development requires long-term planning and investment. The key areas of focus include infrastructure development, social engagement, regulatory strengthening, and capacity building. With the right support, the sector can become a sustainable source of economic activity, complementing the declining oil industry.

Contact Information

• Director, MNACS: Laura Tuck
• Regional Knowledge and Learning Team: Omer Karasapan, Roby Fields, Rory O'Sullivan
• Tel #: (202) 473 8177
• MNA Knowledge Notes: http://mnaknotes

Note: The MNA Knowledge Notes are intended to summarize lessons learned from MNA and other Bank Knowledge and Learning activities. The Notes do not necessarily reflect the views of the World Bank, its board, or its member countries.