Assessment of the Environmental and Socio-economic Impacts of Iron Ore Exploration Activities in Uganda. A Case Study of Iron Ore Mines in Muko Sub-County in Rubanda District

Abstract

This study assessed the environmental and socio-economic impacts of iron ore exploration activities in Uganda, specifically focusing on iron ore mines in Muko Sub-County, Rubanda District. The research has three specific objectives. First, it seeks to identify the various iron ore exploration activities being carried out in the study area. Second, it aims to uncover the challenges faced by the local communities living around the iron ore site. Lastly, the study aims to examine the interventions that have been implemented to address these challenges. Various data collection tools like interviewing, observation, focus group discussion, and questionnaires were applied to gather the required data for this study. By conducting a comprehensive analysis of the environmental and socio-economic impacts, this research hopes to contribute to a better understanding of the potential consequences of iron ore exploration activities. It also seeks to provide valuable insights into the strategies that can be employed to mitigate these challenges and foster sustainable development in the region. The findings of this study indicated that various exploration and exploitative iron ore activities have been carried out within the study area such as; open-pit mining, site preparation, hauling and transportation, survey, and mapping among others. The study also revealed that; conflicts, displacements of residents from their lands, degradation of the environment, and employment opportunities among other effects have arisen. On the issue of measures to mitigate the effects, EIAs, and restorations of the degraded environment were identified. This study concluded that; the results of this study show that the study region has been significantly impacted by iron ore exploration and extraction activities. Environmental degradation brought on by these practices includes soil erosion, water contamination, and deforestation. In addition, socioeconomic developments such as eviction, loss of livelihoods, and growing inequality have affected the nearby villages. In conclusion, both the environment and the nearby communities have suffered as a result of iron ore exploration and exploitation activities in the study region. To lessen these negative effects and encourage sustainable practices in the sector, immediate action must be taken.It was also recommended that strict laws and enforcement by government agencies and community engagement should be put at the fingers point to ensure the most sustainable iron ore mining not only in the study area but also in the country-Uganda as a whole. Keyword: Environmental impacts; Socio-economic impacts; Iron ore exploration; Uganda; Muko Sub-County