Inhabitant Perception on the Effects of Artisan Mining on Rangelands in Gedarif State (Eastern Sudan)

The present study was initiated with the objective to learn about people’s (including herders, farmers, miners) perception on the effect of artisan mining on rangelands vegetation cover and soil contamination. The area of study covered AlSada village located at the northern part of Gadarif state. Three sites were selected according to mining activities, and rated as high, medium and low activities. These were one with extensive mining activity (site 1), with medium activity (site 2) and one without activity selected as reference site (site 3) with minimum or low mining activities. Satellite images were taken for the area under study before and after mining activities (2008 – 2013) to confirm vegetation and wetland changes due to artisan mining activities. Animal herders, farmers and miners at AlSada village were addressed with a semi-open questionnaire.. The results showed a decrease in vegetation cover and wetland areas amounted to 397.64907 km and 3.614427 km for the vegetation cover and wetlands respectively. Field visits revealed the deterioration rangelands and loss of animals’ live. Rangeland condition was excellent before mining than after mining as expressed by most (~70%) of the respondents. Rangeland condition was rated as poor after mining by ~49%. This was confirmed by herders, farmers and miners although herders and farmers showed higher percentages in expressing the negative effect of mining on rangelands. Most (~78%) agreed that pasture deteriorated as indicated by the appearance of undesirable plant species. Rangelands were affected by problems of land tenure, expansion of agriculture that affected migratory routs and conflicts as expressed by most of the respondents (~87%). Most complaint about inadequate and contaminated water (77%), conflicts with gold investors (~95%), and non-state sponsors (82%). Most (~64%) feed their animals on natural pasture and crop residue (~70%) but not (77%) on concentrate, or pasture outside the area (~71%). Drilling caused by mining activities could be felt by most of the respondents (~96%) leading to the disappearance of unpalatable range species. Pasture’ contamination with mercury and its poising effect were expressed by most of the respondents (~85%). Most (~73%) disagree that mining as excellent alternative to pastoralists, or add burden to the area (~54%) or improve development to the area (~72%). Herders seek veterinary assistance (~88%), or move to other areas with better pasture (~72%). Many (~98%) would turn to sell part or all their animals.