Impact of Small Scale Emerald Mining on Local Communities Livelihoods

Lufwanyama district has some of the world's best emeralds and mining is not contributing to local economic development. Mining has failed to stimulate local enterprises, traditional industries and access to environmental resources. Mineral wealth continues to benefit the elite, while vulnerable and resource dependent communities bear the socio-economic and environmental costs of loss of access to land, impoverished livelihoods and degraded environments. This book sought to investigate the economic, social and environmental impacts of small scale emerald mining on local community livelihoods in Lufwanyama District. Through the employ of a descriptive survey design, the effects of mining in the area were evaluated. Results indicate that overdependence on mining and poor diversification of livelihood options has hindered development of rural communities. Equitable distribution of employment opportunities and revenue from small scale mining remain a challenge for sustainable local development. This book will reveal the plight of local communities and will be a foundation for students and professionals who wish to challenge policy regarding mineral resource distribution and benefits.