Impacts of Coal Mining on Deka River Water Quality and Livelihoods of the Surrounding Community

Abstract

Coal mining is one of the major contributors to Zimbabwe’s Gross Domestic Product. However, it presents numerous adverse challenges on the environment, local ecosystems and livelihoods. This study sought to assess the impacts of coal mining on the quality of the water in Deka River and livelihoods of the nearby community in Hwange district. Data was solicited using two methods; water sampling and analysis; and focus group discussions (FGDs). Water samples were collected on three sampling sites/sections (upstream, middle and downstream) of Deka River for three consecutive years from 2019 to 2021, in a 2 x 3 factorial experimental design. Concentration levels of eight physico-chemical parameters (pH, DO, TDS, EC, Mn, Fe, turbidity and sulphates) were assessed. Conversely, 40 respondents were selected using stratified random sampling technique to participate in two FGDs to gather their perceptions on how their livelihoods were impacted by coal mining pollution. The study found the middle section, to be the most polluted as pH, TDS, EC, Mn, Fe, turbidity and sulphates levels were significantly higher than the maximum allowable WHO standards. Statistically, there was a significant interaction effect at p<0.001 between Sampling site and Year (time) on the levels of seven water parameters in Deka River. All respondents highlighted that they were negatively impacted by coal mine pollution of Deka River, which they were using for drinking purposes and for their livelihoods. They complained of high incidences of a plethora of diseases among themselves and their livestock as well as death of fish, livestock and people.