Effects of artisanal small scale gold mining on the environment and livelihoods: a case study of Shurugwi.

Abstract

This research focuses mainly on the effects of artisanal small scale gold mining activities on the environment and livelihoods in Shurugwi. It also looks at the negative effects of ASM and the dangers they cause to the environment and livelihoods. Artisanal small scale gold mining has become the backbone of the economy, due to unemployment and the closure of many companies, so many people are now being involved in gold panning activities. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) acknowledges gold mining by itinerant miners as the means of livelihood for more than 13 million people in the developing world. Although there are many potential socio-economic benefits of artisanal small scale gold mining, there are numerous negative impacts from these small and inefficient operations as a result of wasteful extraction and processing techniques. The artisanal small scale gold mining activities pose a very high negative risk on the environment and livelihoods and some of these effects include land degradation, siltation, deforestation, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity. If these effects are not mitigated this will cause much harm in the near future. Also on the effects of artisanal small scale gold mining activities on livelihoods include loss of life, loss of property through theft, the spread of HIV/AIDS only to mention but a few. The study used qualitative research, which involved conducting some interviews, distribution of questionnaire and observation was also used to gather data on the effects of artisanal small scale gold mining activities. Some recommendations were also given to the Government, Shurugwi City council, people from the community and other stakeholders in order to mitigate the effects of ASM’s activities and these recommendations include land rehabilitation, implementation of mining policies, training of the ASM, licencing and giving them permanent claims at a lower cost and also carrying out some awareness campaigns on HIV/AIDS programs, distribution of condoms in order to mitigate the effects of ASM activities on the environment and livelihoods.