The Shambesai Gold Project, located in southern Kyrgyzstan, is owned and operated by the Australia-based Manas Resources. The site is currently still in the exploration stage and awaiting approval from the government of the Kyrgyz Republic to move into the production stage. Prior to this, Oxus International conducted a Social Impact Assessment of the site and the surrounding communities. This extensive project consisted of desk research, preparation of methodology and research instruments, and field research to collect qualitative and quantitative data using surveys, focus groups, structured interviews and various participatory activities.

The results of this research project were used to identify high-risk social issues that may affect the Shambesai project, which informs Manas Resources’ decision making, and which enables the effective monitoring of the project’s impact over time.