Investigating the challenges posed by artisanal and small-scale mining on Zambia’s attainment of Africa Agenda 2063: The case of Serenje, Zambia

Resumo

This research aimed to investigate the challenges posed by Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) to Zambia’s attainment of the Africa Agenda 2063 and to examine how ASM can play a big role in enhancing sustainable development in local and surrounding communities. It focused on three main objectives: to identify Environmental, Health and Safety, Social and Economic Challenges posed by artisanal and small-scale mining on sustainable development, to examine how artisanal and small-scale mining practices affect Zambia’s progress toward achieving the goals and aspirations of Africa Agenda 2063 and to assess the effectiveness of existing policies, legal frameworks, and institutional mechanisms governing artisanal and small-scale mining in Serenje. The research is guided by Sustainable Livelihood approach which helps to understand the trade-offs between short-term economic gains from ASM and the long-term sustainability of local ecosystems and community welfare. The study targeted Artisanal Small-Scale Miners of Serenje. It employed a mixed sampling technique, using simple random sampling, combining both qualitative and quantitative data from 60 respondents. It employed a descriptive research design using a mixed-methods, following a pragmatic research paradigm. The study used both primary and secondary data. It used semi-structured interview guides and questionnaires to collect data from participants. The data gotten from respondents was analyzed using inferential and descriptive statistics for those that required. The results indicate that, ASM had concerns over access to clean water around the mining sites. Results also indicate localized deforestation around ASGM sites and increased river turbidity and channel widening downstream of mining activities. A study has shown that Artisanal and small-scale mining has created job opportunities for them in rural areas. Results also indicated that fostering sustainable development principles based on environmentally and socially responsible mining, which is safe and includes communities and all other stakeholders as one of Africa Agenda 2063 Vision. The findings also show that the existing polices, legal frameworks, and institutional mechanisms governing ASM in Serenje were not effective. In conclusion, Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) plays a vital role in providing livelihoods for many people, especially in rural areas where formal employment is limited. It contributes to poverty reduction and local economic growth by creating jobs and generating income. However, ASM often operates informally and faces challenges such as environmental degradation, poor safety standards, and limited access to finance and technology. The study recommends that there has to be the creation of a dedicated unit within government focused on ASM to help ensure improved economic and social returns from ASM, a less negative environmental impact. Not only that, there has to be an introduction of strategic social partnerships that will aid in providing finance that is directed to sustainable development enhancement rather than profit. This will enable the ASM to do their operation sustainably. To enhance the development of ASM in providing livelihood options for local communities, Government requires to establish a wing dedicated to conduct gap analyses, policy formulation, implementation and alignment in the sub-sector.