ASSESSING THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF ARTISANAL AND SMALL SCALE GOLD MINING ON WOMEN IN OSIRI GOLD MINE IN MIGORI COUNTY – KENYA

Abstract

This study was done to assess the socio- economic impacts of Artisanal and Small Scale Gold mining on women with a case study of Osiri Gold Mine in Nyatike sub-county, Migori County-Kenya. Data collected included; the role of women in mining, the factors that influence women’s participation in mining and the impact of mining on women. The study used a descriptive case study survey design. A total of 113 respondents were interviewed. Qualitative data was analyzed using narrative descriptions which included verbatim and selected comments while quantitative data was analyzed using statistical software; SPSS and translated into tables, pie charts and bar graphs. The key findings of the study indicated that Gold Mining has an impact and great influence in community development in Nyatike sub – county and beyond, most especially as a source of income. The research findings indicated that majority of the respondents depend on gold directly or indirectly for their source of revenue. It also revealed that the factors that mostly control women participation in gold mining included amongst others: lack of access and control to critical resources like land; economic freedom; lack of employment; family needs and poor climate for agricultural practice. Among other things, the Osiri gold mine enhanced women’s living standards but also affected them negatively, in that it interferes with the environment and causes health problems. The conclusion from this study is that gold mining at Osiri, Nyatike Sub – county impacts on women both positively and negatively.