Smallholder and artisanal miners are the keys to sustainable mining operations in Africa. Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining occurs in approximately 80 countries worldwide and there are approximately 100 million artisanal miners globally. Artisanal and small-scale mining practices are widespread in developing countries in Africa, Asia, Oceania, and Central and South America, and their production supply account for 80% of global sapphire, 20% of gold mining, and up to 20% of diamond mining according to the World Bank.

Though the informal nature and on the whole un-mechanized operation generally results in low productivity, the sector represents an important livelihood and income source for the poverty affected local population. Port-Ag partners with local mining corporations and farming groups to mechanize operations and increase productivity.