MINERS ADAPTATION STRATEGIES ON IMPACT OF ARTISANAL MINING ACTIVITIES AMONG RURAL COMMUNITIES IN KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64348/zije.2025196Keywords:
Artisanal Mining, Miners, Adaptation Strategies, Livelihood and Rural CommunitiesAbstract
Mining serves as a major source of livelihood for many rural communities around the world. However, it often exposes miners to various risks, including workplace accidents, consumption of contaminated food and water, and the spread of diseases. This study explores how miners in the rural areas of Kaduna State, Nigeria, adapt to the challenges associated with artisanal mining. Data were gathered using focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and direct observations in the field. The findings, analysed using descriptive statistics with NVivo Version 11.0, reveal a variety of coping strategies employed by miners. These include avoiding polluted water sources, treating water through boiling, filtration, or chemical methods, relying on family, unions, and friends for medical support, and adopting safety measures like wearing protective gear and ensuring safe mining practices. Other strategies include consuming treated or packaged water, promoting awareness about mining hazards, and improving personal nutrition. Based on these findings, the study recommends that miners actively engage with their unions and build strong relationships with peers and community members to ensure support during times of need. Secondly, miners should ensure safe mining practices by avoiding underground mining and mishandling of mining equipment.
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