Effects of mining activities on social-cultural development: A case of Kapijipanga chiefdom in Solwezi district of North-Western Province, Zambia

Abstract

Overview: This study examined the impact of mining activities on the social and cultural development of Kapijipanga chiefdom of Solwezi District. The study investigated various ways in which mining activities influence the social and cultural identity of local people. Body of knowledge: The findings contribute to a better understanding of the complex relationship between mining activities and social cultural development and offer insight for sustainable development and community well-being in Kapijipanga chiefdom of Solwezi District. Methods: The study employed both qualitative and quantitative methods and descriptive survey design that sampled local people of Kapijipanga chiefdom, mine workers, headmen and chief. The sample size for this study was 150. Data was obtained from respondents by means of interviews and questionnaires. Tables, graphs and pie-charts were used to analyze the quantitative and qualitative data obtained. Data was then analyzed manually in some cases and also, a combination of software MS Access, and MS Excel. Results: The results indicated that the effects of mining activities on social –cultural development in Kapijipanga chiefdom of Solwezi District is negative in the sense that social development is strongly influenced by the loss of farmland, houses, and livelihoods in Kapijipanga chiefdom. Additionally, the study found that mining activities has led to the loss of traditional authority in Kapijipanga chiefdom of Solwezi District. This is because mining projects often require the relocation of indigenous communities and villages to make way for mining infrastructure. Recommendation: The government of Zambia through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and the Department of culture should ensure that mines offer cultural awareness training programs for their employees to increase understanding and appreciation of local customs, traditions, and languages.