Impact of Artisanal Gold Mining on Soil and Water Resources in Zamfara State

Artisanal and small-scale gold mining activities in Zamfara State have intensified significantly over the past decade, raising serious concerns about heavy metal contamination of soils and water resources. This study investigates the impact of artisanal gold mining on soil and water quality in three mining communities in Anka and Maru Local Government Areas of Zamfara State. Soil and water samples were collected from mining sites, agricultural fields, and community water sources at distances ranging from 50 to 2,000 metres from active mining pits. Samples were analysed for lead, arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and zinc concentrations using atomic absorption spectrometry. Community health data and structured interviews with 130 residents assessed perceived health changes and awareness of contamination risks. Laboratory results confirm lead concentrations in soils adjacent to processing sites that are 15 to 45 times above regulatory thresholds, consistent with documented acute lead poisoning events in the region. Water sources within 500 metres of mining operations also exceed permissible heavy metal limits for multiple parameters. Community members demonstrate limited awareness of contamination pathways, particularly regarding the processing of mercury-laden tailings near domestic areas. The study calls for urgent remediation of the most contaminated sites, prohibition of mercury amalgamation, and establishment of health surveillance programmes targeting children under five. Keywords: artisanal mining, heavy metal contamination, soil pollution, water quality, Zamfara State.