Problem Of Artisanal Gold Mining In The Mining Area Of Mangi, Tshopo Province In The Democratic Republic Of Congo

Oscar YAMFWA BESA KAFOLA, Arsène Muswaswa Muswaswa, René GIZANGA VALU, Dieudonné MUSIBONO EYUL'ANKI, Emmanuel BIEY MAKALY

Abstract


Objective: assess the environmental and health risks generated by artisanal gold mining in the community of MANGI.

Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out from October 2021 to June 2022. Data collection was done through direct observations and survey questionnaires. ArcGIS software was used to carry out our cartographic analyses. Landsat images from 2003 and 2023 were used to assess the deforestation rate of the mining area. Of the 362 questionnaires distributed to various artisanal miners and other stakeholders, 229 responses were collected, representing a response rate of 63.26%. Data analysis is done with Epi-info 7.2.5 software and Excel 2016 software.

Results: The area generally suffered deforestation of 2.3% and particularly forest degradation of around 10.9% due to artisanal gold mining over a period of twenty years. Mercury is the only chemical element used by gold miners in the processing of gold. A presence of minors on operating sites estimated at 9.2%. The level of ignorance of operators on the health impacts of the use of mercury was estimated at 96.5% and that of knowledge on the environmental impacts was at 64.6%. Deforestation was 100% certified. It was also noted the pollution of waterways and a disappearance of fish criticized by 92.6%; also the presence of rock debris in all sites studied with abandoned gaping holes. 91% of respondents experienced accidents/incidents during the activity. 94% of operators complained of lower back pain due to activity, 67% of chest pain, 62% of chronic cough, 21% of chronic digestive disorders, 81% of insomnia, 67% of persistent headaches, 13% of cases of memory loss, 39% of respondents presenting limb tremors. This study also reports 86% of cases of permanent conflicts linked to the activity with excessive alcohol consumption noted among the majority of operators (86%).

Conclusion: Gold panning has promoted the economic stability of several households in the region, but unfortunately, it is the basis of several health and environmental risks that it is essential to manage effectively. Raising awareness among operators and rigorous control over the application of texts are alternatives to be considered by the political-administrative authorities in this sector.


Keywords


Risks, artisanal mining, gold, Mercury, Mangi, Tshopo, DR Congo

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.52155/ijpsat.v43.1.5990

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