Socio-Economic Challenges in Small-Scale Gold Mining: A Case of Geita, Tanzania

Abstract

Small-scale gold mining is a major economic activity in Tanzania, particularly in the Geita region. Despite its importance, the sector continues to face persistent risks and operational challenges. This study examined the financial, technical, legal, environmental, and occupational challenges influencing the performance and safety of small-scale gold miners.

An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was employed. Data from miners, mining groups, and district officials were collected through structured questionnaires and interviews. Quantitative findings were summarized using descriptive statistics and visualized through figures, while a multilevel logistic regression analysis was conducted to account for clustering effects at the ward level with a 5% significance level. In contrast, qualitative data were analysed using thematic and interpretive methods.

A total of 520 small-scale miners were included in this study. The study found that several demographic, financial, and institutional factors significantly influenced the challenges facing miners in Geita. Older miners (≥35 years) were more likely to face challenges compared to younger miners. Higher education reduced vulnerability, while longer mining experience significantly increased risks. Access to formal credit lowered challenges, whereas inadequate equipment heightened them. Accessibility of legal support reduced risks, while lack of legal awareness strongly increased them.

The study concludes that the challenges facing miners in the Geita region are interconnected, extending beyond technical constraints to encompass financial and environmental issues. Based on these findings, it recommends structured outreach and capacity-building by district officers, enhanced coordination and resource-pooling through miners’ organizations, and improved skills development among individual miners.