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Author
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Marira, Ruramisai L.
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Title
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Assessment of the impacts of artisanal Gold Mining on the environment using GIS and Remote Sensing: the case of Mashonaland East and Mashonaland Central province. (2009-2020)
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Abstract
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The study assessed the effects of artisanal small scale gold mining on the environment conducted in Mashonaland East province in Mudzi district ward 14 and Mashonaland Central Province, Bindura district ward 21. The study went further to examine the adaptation and coping mechanism of the surrounding communities to the impacts of artisanal small scale gold mining. Qualitative research methodology was used in gathering relevant information from the respondents; this was done through the use of data gathering instruments in GIS and Remote sensing, interviews and also from secondary data sources. In terms of sampling methods, purpose sampling method was used, satellite images, map trends and coordinates were obtained from the selected wards. Information was also gathered from artisanal miners, mine associates as well as village heads. Results from the study implies that there are several factors that triggered artisanal mining in the selected wards and these are, droughts, massive unemployment, economic decline, abundance of gold deposits, the gold panning mind-set amongst the local people, gold rush (riches) as well as easy accessibility of gold mines. In addition, results from the study shows that artisanal small-scale gold mining results in environmental degradation. The noted and observed environmental effects of artisanal small scale gold mining include, land surface and soil destruction, erosion, land pollution, water pollution, outbreak of diseases, occupational diseases (silicosis, mercury poisoning), respiratory problems, deforestation, death and injuries.
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Date
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June 2022
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Publisher
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BUSE
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Keywords
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GIS and Remote Sensing,
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Artisanal Gold mining,
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Environmental degradation,
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Supervisor
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Dr. A. Mureva,
Marira - NRM.pdf