Sustainable Mining of Pozzolana in Uganda

Title:

Sustainable Mining of Pozzolana in Uganda

Authors:

Eunice Naigaga, A.G. Kerali, Dan Tindiwensi

Keywords: Sustainability, Pozzolana, Law, Mining.
Issue Date: 2014
Abstract: Pozzolana, a material containing reactive silica and/or alumina is a key additive in the manufacture of Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC). There are substantial Pozzolana deposits of volcanic origin in the west, east and south western parts of Uganda. Unfortunately, the Pozzolana mining activities in Uganda are not well streamlined and regulated, resulting into wasteful exploitation procedures. Meeting the country’s Pozzolana needs through such wasteful processes will lead to increased environmental degradation with little or no regeneration.An examination of the mining activities and the role of regulation in streamlining these activities was done. An assessment of Uganda’s mining law in ensuring sustainable mining was also done with the aim of providing sustainable exploitation practices and indicators for Pozzolana mining. This was considered necessary to contribute to long-term socio-economic growth of communities in Pozzolana mining areas in Uganda. The research was comparative, descriptive and explanatory. Pozzolana mining activities of Tororo and Hima cement factories were examined. Data was collected using structured observations, questionnaires, focus group discussions, interviews and literature review. Analysis of Data was done using Content analysis and contingency table analysis using the Chi square test. Results are presented in figures, tables and graphs.

Pozzolana of volcanic origin is mined at large and small scale. The current mining activities are not sustainable. The law plays a positive role in regulating and streamlining the mining activities, and was found to be adequate. However, the law enforcement strategies are inadequate and thus the level of adherence to the law is low. In the absence of indicators for sustainability, there are no benchmarks to measure sustainability.

Sustainability indicators, a mine regeneration model and a streamlined system of interactions for stakeholders within the mining industry were recommended. A review of the current mining policies and enforcement methods, increased funding to the enforcement agencies, and mine restoration techniques were also recommended.

Published at:  Own PhD Defense

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