Cacao Farmers in Bolivia Resist Gold Mining Expansion

In Bolivia's biodiverse northwest, cacao farmers are actively resisting a burgeoning gold rush that threatens their agricultural practices and the environment. Herminio Mamani, a former president of El Ceibo, the country's largest organic cacao cooperative, emphasizes the importance of agroforestry in maintaining both the quality of cacao and the integrity of local ecosystems. His farm, located in Palos Blancos, remains protected due to local laws enacted in 2021 that ban mining in the area. This initiative was a response to the environmental degradation witnessed in nearby regions, where gold mining has led to significant ecological harm.

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The push for mining bans in Palos Blancos and Alto Beni was fueled by grassroots activism. Farmers, including Nancy Chambi and Roberto Gutierrez, organized protests against mining operations, successfully driving miners away from their lands. The local laws, which were solidified after four years of advocacy, aim to safeguard agriculture and food security against the backdrop of rising gold prices, which surged over 64% in 2025. This economic pressure has led other municipalities to consider similar protective measures.

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The environmental consequences of mining extend beyond immediate land degradation. Cacao producers fear that mercury contamination from mining could jeopardize their international certifications, which are crucial for maintaining market prices. Ulises Ariñez, a former environment secretary for Palos Blancos, notes that while gold mining may offer short-term economic benefits, it poses long-term risks to agriculture and conservation efforts. The community's commitment to organic farming has allowed El Ceibo to export 2,000 tonnes of cacao in 2025, providing resilience amid Bolivia's economic challenges.

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While some advocate for outright bans on mining, others, like Franklin Quequesana, a councillor from Guanay, argue for regulated mining practices. Quequesana acknowledges the economic reliance on mining in his municipality but suggests that certain areas could be designated as mining-free to protect agriculture. This reflects a broader debate within Bolivia about balancing economic development with environmental sustainability.

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Alfredo Zaconeta, a mining researcher at the nonprofit Cedla, stresses the need for clear national policies regarding mining zones to ensure effective local initiatives. However, skepticism remains regarding the likelihood of national reform, given the political conflicts of interest. The Bolivian Ministry of Mining has indicated that high gold prices present an opportunity for significant export revenue, complicating the push for stricter regulations.

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• “We cacao producers would never kill an animal here,” — Herminio Mamani, Former President of El Ceibo

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• “People gathered in mass protest and issued a warning: ‘Leave, or we burn your machinery,’” — Nancy Chambi, Farmer and Councillor

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• “Mining could be done responsibly, but that would mean managing waste correctly – I don’t think that will happen,” — Franklin Quequesana, Councillor

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• “We showed people that mining does more harm than good,” — Ulises Ariñez, Former Environment Secretary

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As communities like Palos Blancos and Alto Beni continue to advocate for their agricultural livelihoods, the future of Bolivia's mining policies remains uncertain, with local bans emerging as a critical strategy for environmental protection.

The Guardian