Environmental issues and socio-economic problems emanating from salt mining in Kenya: a case study of Magarini District

Abstract

Salt mining generates colossal profits for the investors and towards Kenya’s revenue margin. However, salt farming in Magarini District has increasingly elicited social concerns locally and ecological stress at large. Subsequently, this paper presents the findings of a study that explored the socio-economic and environmental issues associated with salt farming. Primary data sourced from the local community provided bulk of the information. Through multi-stage cluster and snowball sampling techniques, a sample of 120 households and 12 institutions were identified after which appropriately designed questionnaires were administered. This was augmented by interviews and focus group discussions with key informants and observations. The results documents myriad of issues including: perceived forced evictions, delineations, pollution, health hazards, unacceptable labor conditions, intimidations and corrupt local leadership, among others. This informs the need to develop effective monitoring systems that guarantees environmental and social management plan compliance by this industry.