Evaluation of Environmental Management Practices in Small-Scale Mining Operations in Zamfara State

This study evaluates the environmental management practices of small-scale gold mining operations in Zamfara State, North West Nigeria, examining the extent of environmental damage and the adequacy of existing regulatory oversight. Small-scale gold mining in Zamfara has expanded rapidly over the past decade, generating significant mercury and lead contamination that has caused documented public health emergencies. Site assessments were conducted at eight active artisanal mining clusters in Anka, Maru, and Zurmi Local Government Areas, using structured environmental condition checklists covering land disturbance, waste management, water body impacts, chemical handling, and reclamation activity. Interviews were conducted with forty-five mine operators, fifteen community members, and five officials from the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development. Water and sediment samples from five sites adjacent to mining operations were analysed for mercury, lead, and arsenic. Results show that mercury amalgamation is practised at all assessed sites, with no protective equipment use and no waste amalgam containment. Mercury concentrations in stream sediment near processing areas reach 1,800 micrograms per kilogram. Abandoned excavation pits are present at all sites without reclamation, creating physical hazards and impounding contaminated water. Regulatory inspection is infrequent and undocumented at all assessed sites. Community members report recent increases in tremor, memory loss, and child developmental problems consistent with mercury poisoning. The study concludes that a public health and environmental emergency exists at many Zamfara mining sites. Recommendations include immediate mercury reduction interventions and mandatory medical screening of mining community residents. Keywords: small-scale mining, mercury contamination, Zamfara State, environmental management, artisanal mining.