The Impact Of Small-Scale Mining Activities On The Environment: Examples From Uis, Xoboxobos, Neu Schwaben And Otjinene

ABSTRACT

This study explored the impact of small-scale mining activities on the environment in two

regions in Namibia: Erongo (examples: Uis, Neu Schwaben, Xoboxobos) and Omaheke

(example: Otjinene). Limited research is done on the activities of small-scale mining in

Namibia which results in unavailability of data. Although recent studies reveal that about 5

000 to 10 000 Namibians work as small-scale miners, information about mining activities in

Namibia remain a rare commodity. Small-scale miners mostly concentrate on commodities

that are easily accessible and do not use mechanised equipment, i.e. tin, tantalum, calcrete

and semi-precious stones (tourmaline, aquamarine, topaz, amethyst, garnet, rose and smoky

quartz).

This study was done through field observations, groundwater analysis and interviews/

questionnaires in order to determine the impact of small-scale mining activities on the

environment. Groundwater was analysed for pH, oxidation-reduction-potential and

conductivity to evaluate the quality of water. In addition, the study determined the possible

environmental impact of small-scale mining activities on the lithosphere, hydrosphere and

atmosphere. Data from GROWAS Database was used to supplement the primary data.

On the atmosphere, the dust generated by small-scale mining activities was found to be very

minimal and thus, only affecting the miners through dust inhalation. This study did not find

any evidence of identified impact on the hydrosphere (groundwater) close to the mining sites.

The groundwater quality in Neu Schwaben and Uis were excellent based on the analysis done

in the field on two boreholes close to the mining sites. The groundwater quality in Neu

Schwaben and Otjinene were excellent, but unacceptable for Uis area based on the results

from GROWAS database. No boreholes were found in Xoboxobos area. The impact of smallii

scale mining activities at the four sites with regard to the lithosphere was land degradation.

Neu Schwaben was the most affected amongst all the four sites observed.

Small-scale miners indicated that SSM activities have a positive socio-economic impact

through poverty alleviation and employment creation. Although the activities of small-scale

miners have a positive impact on the lives of the miners and their families, the same have a

negative impact on the environment. The study recommends the government to take an active

role in providing mining equipment, training on mining safety, education of small-scale

miners on the environment and land rehabilitation. The study further recommends awareness

campaigns for small-scale miners in order to ensure that the impact on the environment

remains minimal.