Livelihood Vulnerability in Artisanal Mining: Impacts on Physical and Financial Capital in Kaduna State
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47514/kjg.2025.07.01.006Keywords:
Livelihood Vulnerability, Artisanal Mining, Household, Physical and Financial CapitalAbstract
Artisanal mining serves as a vital livelihood strategy for millions of people in developing countries, especially in regions where access to formal employment opportunities is limited, offering income generation and economic survival for marginalised and rural communities. Despite its significance, the sector remains predominantly informal and highly vulnerable, characterized by unsafe working conditions, limited access to financial resources, and significant environmental degradation resulting from unregulated mining practices. However, this study assesses livelihood vulnerability in artisanal mining: impacts on physical and financial capital in Kaduna State, so as to provide information for sustainable management of natural resources. Quantitative approaches, such as a structured questionnaire, were used to collect data for the study. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics such as percentages and means. The study found that the Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI) was significantly higher in mining communities (0.549) compared to non-mining communities (0.396). This elevated vulnerability in mining areas was largely attributed to challenges related to physical capital, including poor road access, limited availability of farm production inputs, and housing damage caused by mining activities. Additionally, households in mining communities exhibited greater financial vulnerability, particularly due to limited assets and financial resources. Factors contributing to this included a lower average landholding index and restricted access to savings. Interestingly, access to credit was found to be more constrained in non-mining communities. Policies should prioritise road maintenance, sustainable production practices, housing rehabilitation, and enhanced access to formal financial services to bolster resilience and sustainable livelihoods in affected communities.
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