Examining Socio-environmental Impacts of Illegal Gold Panning in Gwanda District, Matabeleland South, Zimbabwe

Illegal gold panning has become a significant socio-environmental challenge in Gwanda District, Matabeleland South, Zimbabwe. The study objectives are to examine the socio-environmental impacts of illegal gold panning activities, focusing on the detrimental effects on the natural environment, local communities, and the overall socio-environmental structure of the district as well as to evaluate the strategies implemented to regulate or mitigate illegal gold panning in Gwanda District and assess their effectiveness. The research is guided by the understanding that while illegal gold panning provides livelihood opportunities to many rural residents due to high unemployment and poverty rates, it also leads to severe environmental degradation and socio-economic disruptions. This study employs a mixed-method research approach, utilizing a case study design. Data was collected through questionnaires, interviews, and field observations from key stakeholders, including gold panners, local residents, officials from the local authority, the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), and representatives from the government. A total sample of 160 respondents participated in the study, with 150 representing gold panners, mine owners, and local residents, and 10 serving as key informants. The findings of the study indicate that environmental impacts include deforestation, soil erosion, siltation of rivers, and the contamination of water bodies with mercury and other toxic chemicals used in gold extraction. These activities threaten biodiversity, reduce agricultural productivity, and undermine water security for both domestic and agricultural use. The social consequences of illegal gold panning are equally alarming. It exacerbates conflicts over land use, increases crime rates, and creates unsafe working conditions that often lead to injuries or fatalities. Moreover, while it has both positive and negative impacts on the livelihoods of community members, the lack of regulatory oversight fosters the growth of informal markets and encourages criminal activities such as theft and corruption. These issues undermine local governance and law enforcement efforts, further complicating the socio-economic landscape of the region. The findings reveal a complex interaction between poverty-driven survival strategies and the urgent need for sustainable natural resource management. These findings have significant implications for policy formulation and development strategies in Zimbabwe’s mining sector. The research concludes that illegal gold panning in Gwanda District has caused significant environmental and social damage. To mitigate these negative impacts, a multi-faceted approach is necessary, including the formalization of artisanal mining, strict enforcement of environmental regulations, and the provision of alternative livelihood opportunities for local communities. The study underscores the importance of balancing socio-economic needs with environmental sustainability to protect the region's natural resources while supporting the well-being of local communities.