IMPACTS SOCIO ECONOMIQUES DE LEXPLOITATION MINIERE ARTISANALE A PETITE ECHELLE DES SITES AURIFERES DE DAN ISSA AU NIGER

Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) is an increasingly strategic socio-economic activity in Niger, particularly in the commune of Dan Issa (Maradi region), where it is expanding rapidly. This study aims to analyse the perception of the social and economic impacts of EMAPE, in order to identify the factors likely to influence these socio-economic consequences in local communities. The methodological approach is based on a mixed survey, combining semi-directive interviews with 200 artisans selected through stratified and snowball sampling. Descriptive statistical analyses and logistic regression models were carried out. The results revealed that the majority of gold miners perceive EMAPE as an economically beneficial activity in terms of income and jobs, while mentioning the negative effects on health, social values and crime. At the same time, the study highlighted the uncontrolled expansion of mining sites (some 40 km in three years), the increase in the number of pits (almost 4,000 identified) and the high level of institutional informality. By way of illustration, between September and October 2021, some FCFA 2.94 billion and more than 8,000 direct jobs were generated, reflecting a peak in activity that should not be extrapolated. These results provide a valuable base of information that can be used as a decision-making tool and to guide future awareness campaigns promoting more sustainable practices within the sector. Finally, better coordination between public players, researchers and local communities is essential to promote responsible mining that is adapted to agricultural areas such as Dan Issa.