Postmining economies and urban livability in Zimbabwe

Mine closures often lead to the dismantling of company towns, leaving former mine workers and their families to adapt to new economic realities and urban environments. This study was situated within this critical context and sought to examine the factors influencing quality of life and urban livability in post-mining communities, with a particular focus on the social, economic, and environmental dimensions that affect urban livability and resilience in the face of economic transition. Community members often possess specialized skills tied to mining, which may not be easily transferable to other sectors, further compounding their economic vulnerability. This study employed a survey approach to understand the diverse economic activities in Redcliff, Zimbabwe, a former mining town, and the experiences of its residents as they adapted to the normalized urban environment. Aligning to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11, the study underscored the sustainability implications of socioeconomic transitions in post-mining towns. Through in-depth interviews, participant observations, and focus groups, the study captured the lived experiences of former mining community members, offering comprehensive insights into their day-to-day realities. The following research questions are addressed in this paper: What economic activities sustain livelihoods in former mining communities, and how effective are these strategies in ensuring stability? What are their perspectives on urban livability, particularly regarding social, economic, and environmental challenges? What economic frameworks can support post-mining towns? The findings aim to inform policy interventions and community support mechanisms, fostering improved urban livability and resilient urban environments for former mining communities in developing countries.