Community perceptions on socio-economic impacts of uranium exploration in Selous Ecosystem, Tanzania

Large-scale mining has positive and negative effects that impact people differently leading to varying perceptions. This study assessed perceptions of local communities on socio-economic impacts of uranium exploration in Selous Ecosystem, Tanzania. The study was guided by three main research questions (i) Are local communities aware of the impacts of uranium exploration? (ii) What are the socio-economic impacts of uranium exploration? and (iii) What are perceptions of local communities on uranium impacts? A simple random sampling technique was used to select 51 households for questionnaire survey. Additionally, 22 key informants were interviewed and 2 focus group discussions were conducted. Moreover, secondary information such as government policies, legislations, and previous published and unpublished reports were reviewed. The quantitative information was analysed through Statistical Package for Social Science. For the purpose of this study, descriptive statistics was used while qualitative information was analysed using content analysis technique. In terms of awareness, 51% were unaware on negative impacts of uranium mining. The positive socio-economic impacts reported were employment opportunities, improved quality of life, road accessibility and economic opportunities. However, the majority of people interviewed (70 %) claimed that they have not received individual benefits from uranium exploration activities. Perception differed significantly, with 72% of those employed in the mine having positive perceptions, compared to 62% of the unemployed individuals who had negative perceptions. This study recommends a community-based bottom-up approach for awareness raising on uranium impacts. In addition, the mining company should implement effectively its corporate social responsibilities because, the negative perceptions may stand as a hindrance for accomplishment of its goals. The findings of this study provide preliminary baseline for future studies to monitor the impacts of uranium in particular radioactivity pathways associated with uranium mining