Field Repor assessment : The Environmental and Social Impacts of

Open Pit Excavation for Gypsum, Sites in Ashi'a Woreda and Open
Pit Gold Mining Excavated Sites in Awbare Woredas
 Executive Summary

This field report investigates the environmental and social impacts of open-pit mining in Ashi'a
and Awbare Woredas, located in the Somali Region of Ethiopia. Ashi'a Woreda has become a
focal point for gypsum excavation, while Awbare Woreda hosts extensive open-pit gold mining
operations. These activities have significantly altered the natural and social landscapes,
necessitating a comprehensive assessment of their effects.

Environmental degradation caused by mining activities includes deforestation, soil erosion, loss
of biodiversity, and water pollution. These impacts have disrupted local ecosystems, affecting
agricultural productivity and the availability of clean water for communities. The absence of
effective environmental restoration measures has exacerbated these challenges.

On the social front, mining has led to community displacement, loss of traditional livelihoods,
and health risks due to exposure to hazardous materials and poor labor conditions. The local
population often faces restricted access to essential resources, deepening socio-economic
inequalities in the region. Despite generating some economic benefits, the overall social costs
have been substantial.

Weak regulatory oversight and governance have exacerbated these issues. Mining operators
often operate with minimal compliance to environmental and social standards, and enforcement
mechanisms are inadequate, leaving communities without sufficient recourse or involvement in
decision-making.
In Ashi'a Woreda, 16 companies, including Salalaa Company, mine gypsum, a key construction
material and economic resource. While gypsum extraction contributes to local growth, it causes
land degradation, air pollution, and ecosystem destruction. In Awbare Woreda, four open-pit
gold mining sites are contributing to environmental harm and safety concerns. These unprotected
sites pose risks to livestock and human travelers, underscoring the need for sustainable practices
and safety measures.
 1.Introduction

The Somali Region of Ethiopia is home to abundant mineral resources, with

gypsum and gold being two of the most widely extracted materials. In Ashi’a
Woreda, 16 companies, including Salalaa, are actively engaged in open-pit
gypsum mining, contributing significantly to the regional economy. However,
these mining operations have led to a range of social and environmental
issues. Similarly, in Awbare Woreda, four open-pit gold mining sites have
caused numerous challenges for local communities, particularly for herders
and people traveling between the town and the countryside. The presence of
these mining operations has resulted in ecological degradation, resource
conflicts, and safety risks for the surrounding population.

The environmental impact of gypsum mining in Ashi’a Woreda is severe, as

large-scale excavation leads to soil erosion, loss of vegetation, and the
destruction of natural habitats. Mining companies, including Salalaa, often
dispose of waste improperly, contaminating nearby water sources and
affecting both agricultural and domestic water supply. The removal of
gypsum also leads to increased dust pollution, which can have detrimental
health effects on local residents, especially those with respiratory issues.
Additionally, the destruction of landscapes and ecosystems has long-term
consequences on biodiversity, further undermining the region’s
environmental stability.

Socially, the presence of 16 gypsum-excavating companies in Ashi’a Woreda

has created a series of challenges. While mining has generated employment
opportunities, many of the jobs are low-paying, temporary, and lack proper
worker protections. The influx of external workers has put additional pressure
on local resources, creating competition for food, water, and housing. This
has resulted in increased tensions between local residents and migrant
workers. Moreover, the limited economic benefits derived from mining,
coupled with the environmental damage, have raised concerns about the
overall long-term sustainability of the community’s development.

In Awbare Woreda, the open-pit gold mining operations have posed unique
dangers to the local community, particularly herders who depend on the land
for grazing their livestock. The open, unfenced pits created by the mining
companies are a significant hazard to both livestock, such as camels, and
people traveling in the area, especially at night. The lack of safety measures
around these pits has led to accidents where animals have fallen into the
pits, causing harm or death. These safety hazards not only threaten the lives
of animals but also increase the risk of injury or death for people, creating a
major concern for those living near the mining sites.

This report aims to provide a detailed analysis of these issues, focusing on the environmental and
social impacts of mining in Ashi'a and Awbare Woredas. It also explores potential mitigation
strategies to address these challenges, offering evidence-based recommendations to promote
sustainable development in the Somali Region. By doing so, this report seeks to inform
policymakers, mining companies, and local communities about the path forward.
 1.1 General Objectives

 The general objective of this report is to assess the environmental and social impacts of
open-pit gypsum and gold mining in Ashi'a and Awbare Woredas of the Somali Region,
Ethiopia.

1.2 Specific objectives

 Examine the environmental consequences of open-pit gypsum mining in Ashi'a Woreda,

focusing on soil erosion, loss of vegetation, water contamination, and air pollution
resulting from the excavation activities of 16 companies, including Salalaa.
 Analyze the social impacts of gypsum mining in Ashi'a Woreda, including the effects on
local communities, employment conditions, resource competition, and health risks due to
environmental degradation.
 Investigate the environmental challenges associated with open-pit gold mining in Awbare
Woreda, particularly the risks posed by the contamination of water sources, loss of arable
land, and the hazards from uncovered mining pits.
 Evaluate the social risks surrounding open-pit gold mining in Awbare Woreda, focusing
on the safety concerns for local herders, livestock, and people traveling near mining sites,
as well as the conflicts over land use and resources.
 Provide recommendations for mitigating the environmental and social impacts of open-
pit mining activities, promoting sustainable practices that balance economic growth with
environmental protection and community well-being.
Methodology

This assesment employs a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods to assess
the environmental and social impacts of open-pit gypsum and gold mining in Ashi’a and Awbare
Woredas. The methodology is designed to gather comprehensive data from various sources,
including field observations, interviews.

Field Observations: Direct observations will be conducted at the mining sites in Ashi’a Woreda
(where 16 companies, including Salalaa, are engaged in gypsum excavation) and Awbare Woreda
(where four open-pit gold mining sites are located). These visits will help assess the
environmental degradation, such as soil erosion, water contamination, and habitat destruction.
The presence of hazardous conditions around the open-pit mines, such as uncovered pits and
unsafe working environments, will also be documented.

Interviews: Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with key stakeholders, including local
community members, workers in the mining sector, government officials, and environmental
experts.

.
 3 Findings of the Field Report

3.1Environmental Impacts in Ashi’a Woreda: Gypsum, Limestone, and Clay

Excavation Sites

3.1 Soil Degradation and Land Instability

The open-pit excavation of gypsum, limestone, and clay in Ashi’a Woreda has led to
significant soil degradation. The removal of large quantities of topsoil has destabilized the
land, creating erosion-prone areas. The loss of fertile topsoil has negatively impacted
surrounding agricultural activities, leaving the land barren and less productive. Additionally,
sinkholes and subsidence issues have become more common, posing a safety risk to nearby
communities.

Open-pit excavation significantly disrupts the soil structure, leading to widespread soil erosion
and degradation. The removal of topsoil and exposure of subsoil layers make the land vulnerable
to erosion by wind and water. This not only reduces the land's fertility but also increases the risk
of desertification in the surrounding areas. Soil degradation also limits the potential for natural
vegetation regrowth, making it challenging to restore the site after mining operations cease.

The presence of loose rock fragments and disturbed soil further exacerbates the problem. These
materials are easily dislodged and carried away by runoff during rainfall, leading to
sedimentation in nearby water bodies. This process reduces the soil's ability to retain water and
nutrients, making the land unproductive for agricultural use. In the long term, the loss of soil
quality can lead to the complete abandonment of the affected area.

3.2 Loss of Vegetation Cover

Extensive mining operations have resulted in the clearance of large areas of natural
vegetation. This loss of cover has disrupted local ecosystems, affecting species that depend
 on these habitats. Native plant species, many of which play critical roles in controlling soil
erosion and providing forage for livestock, have been particularly impacted. Without these
plants, the area is becoming increasingly vulnerable to desertification.

3.3 Altered Water Flow and Contamination

Excavation activities in Ashi,a woreda often disrupt natural water flow patterns, leading to
unintended consequences. The formation of pits and uneven terrain alters drainage systems,
causing water to stagnate in some areas and increasing the risk of localized flooding. These
disruptions can affect agricultural lands and nearby communities, reducing water availability for
essential activities. Moreover, sedimentation from loose soil and mining waste can pollute
nearby water bodies. The excavation process has introduced pollutants into local water sources.
Chemicals used in processing materials and sediments disturbed during mining have polluted
nearby streams. Communities downstream have reported reduced water quality, affecting both
human and livestock health. In some cases, water bodies have dried up completely due to
changes in hydrology caused by mining activities such as open pits excavated Ashi,a.

3.4.Air Quality Degradation

Excavation generates significant amounts of dust and particulate matter, which degrade air
quality in and around the mining site. Wind can carry this dust to nearby communities, leading to
respiratory issues among residents and workers. The fine particles pose serious health risks,
especially for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-
existing respiratory conditions. The reduction in air quality also affects the local environment.
Dust deposition on vegetation reduces photosynthesis and stunts plant growth, further
compounding the problem of habitat loss. Additionally, the suspended particles can affect
visibility, creating safety hazards for workers and transportation in the area.

3.5 Disturbance to Wildlife

The open-pit operations have fragmented local habitats, forcing wildlife to migrate or adapt
to degraded conditions. Animals that once thrived in the area are now facing increased stress
 due to habitat loss and reduced food availability. Additionally, noise pollution from heavy
machinery has further disrupted natural behaviors, including breeding and feeding patterns.

3.6 Loss of Aesthetic and Recreational Value

Open-pit excavation scars the landscape, significantly reducing its aesthetic and recreational
value. The once natural and visually appealing terrain is transformed into a barren and degraded
environment, discouraging tourism and recreational activities. Local communities that may have
relied on the natural beauty of the area for economic benefits, such as ecotourism, suffer
financially as the site becomes unattractive.

The long-term presence of abandoned pits and degraded land further diminishes the region's
value. These scars on the landscape often serve as a reminder of environmental damage,
fostering negative perceptions of the area. The loss of natural beauty can also affect cultural and
emotional connections local communities have with the land.

3.7 Climate and Microclimate Impacts

Excavation activities contribute to changes in the local climate and microclimate. The removal of
vegetation reduces carbon sequestration, increasing the concentration of carbon dioxide in the
atmosphere. This contributes to global warming and exacerbates climate change. Moreover, the
barren land absorbs more heat, leading to higher surface temperatures in the region.

The loss of vegetation and disruption of water systems also affect local weather patterns.
Reduced evapotranspiration from plants decreases humidity, which can lead to drier conditions
and exacerbate desertification. Over time, these changes negatively impact agricultural
productivity and the overall resilience of the environment.
4.Social Impacts in Ashi’a Woreda: Gypsum, Limestone, and Clay Excavation
Sites

4.1 Community Displacement and Overburdened Resources

The operations of 16 companies, including Salalaa, in Ashi’a Woreda have significantly

displaced local communities. With multiple excavation sites spread across the woreda, large
tracts of land traditionally used for agriculture, grazing, and settlement have been rendered
unusable. Families are forced to relocate to less suitable areas, where access to vital services like
water, healthcare, and education is often limited. The influx of mining operations has also placed
immense pressure on nearby towns and villages that host displaced populations, leading to
overcrowding and resource shortages. The competition for land and water resources between
mining companies and local communities has become a source of tension. Residents who
previously relied on the land for sustenance and economic activities are left with few viable
alternatives, creating widespread dissatisfaction and unrest. This displacement not only disrupts
livelihoods but also erodes social networks that are vital for community resilience.

4. 2 Livelihood Disruption and Economic Inequality

The activities of 16 excavation companies have severely disrupted the livelihoods of farming and
pastoral communities in Ashi’a Woreda. With vast areas of fertile land destroyed by mining,
families that once depended on agriculture and livestock for income and sustenance now struggle
to survive. The excavation process often contaminates water sources, further reducing
agricultural productivity and harming livestock, which are integral to the local economy. While
mining creates jobs, these positions are often temporary and offer low wages, failing to
compensate for the economic losses caused by land degradation. The majority of higher-paying
jobs are given to workers from outside the community, sidelining local residents. Women and
marginalized groups face even greater challenges, as they have limited access to these
opportunities. This uneven distribution of economic benefits deepens inequalities, creating a
divide between the few who profit from mining and the many who suffer its consequences.

4.3 Health Risks and Environmental Degradation

The operation of 16 companies has led to significant health issues for local communities in
Ashi’a Woreda. The dust and particulate matter generated by extensive gypsum excavation
severely degrade air quality, causing respiratory illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, and lung
infections among workers and nearby residents. Continuous exposure to mining dust has
particularly impacted children and the elderly, whose respiratory systems are more vulnerable.

Additionally, the contamination of water sources by sedimentation and chemicals used in the
excavation process has resulted in the spread of waterborne diseases. This health crisis is
exacerbated by the limited availability of healthcare facilities in the region, making it difficult for
affected individuals to receive timely treatment. Furthermore, noise pollution from heavy
machinery disrupts daily life, contributing to stress and deteriorating mental well-being.

4.4 Cultural and Social Disintegration

The activities of multiple companies in Ashi’a Woreda have led to the destruction of culturally
and spiritually significant sites. Sacred lands, traditional gathering areas, and burial grounds have
been excavated or rendered inaccessible, stripping the community of its cultural heritage and
eroding the emotional bonds that tie people to their land. This loss has profound social and
psychological impacts, as it diminishes the identity and traditions of the affected population.

The influx of workers from outside the community to operate mining sites has also disrupted
local social dynamics. Cultural differences between locals and newcomers often lead to
misunderstandings and conflicts. Furthermore, the presence of multiple companies in the area
has introduced competition over resources and economic opportunities, creating divisions within
the community. These tensions weaken social cohesion, making it harder for communities to
come together to address shared challenges.

4.5 Social Instability and Long-Term Impacts

The proliferation of 16 companies excavating gypsum in Ashi’a Woreda has created significant
social instability. The unequal distribution of economic benefits, with profits flowing to external
stakeholders while local communities bear the brunt of environmental and social costs, has
fueled resentment. Promises of development and infrastructure improvements by mining
companies are often unfulfilled, deepening mistrust between communities and corporate entities.

This persistent inequality and lack of accountability have sparked protests and conflicts between
residents, companies, and local authorities. The long-term presence of abandoned pits and
degraded landscapes further exacerbates the situation, as they serve as reminders of
environmental destruction and unkept promises. Over time, these dynamics erode the region's
social fabric, making it more difficult to achieve sustainable development and community well-
being
 5. Environmental Impacts in Awbare Woreda: Open-Pit Gold Mining Sites

Gold mining activities in the woreda have visibly disrupted the natural landscape, as shown in
the images. Large mounds of excavated soil and mining residue are left exposed, leading to the
displacement of fertile topsoil. This increases the risk of erosion during heavy rainfall or strong
winds, contributing to land degradation. Furthermore, the exposed areas can no longer support
vegetation, disrupting the ecological balance of the surrounding habitat.

5.1 Improper Solid Waste Disposal

One of the most pressing environmental issues in Awbare Woreda is the improper disposal of
solid waste from gold mining operations. The improper disposal of waste, including plastic and
non-biodegradable materials, is a major concern. Image evidence shows plastic waste scattered
across the site, highlighting a lack of structured waste management systems. Such litter not only
pollutes the environment but also poses risks to wildlife that may ingest or get entangled in the
debris. Over time, these pollutants can seep into the soil and water systems, causing long-term
environmental damage.

5.2 Land Degradation

Open-pit gold mining has scarred the landscape, creating large craters and waste dumps. The
lack of proper land reclamation has left the area unsuitable for agriculture or other productive
uses. Open-pit gold mining significantly alters the natural landscape, often resulting in
extensive land degradation. The images from Awbare Woreda likely show large excavated
pits and areas devoid of vegetation. These pits disrupt the land’s natural structure, leading to
 the loss of fertile soil and rendering the land unsuitable for agriculture or reforestation. This
irreversible alteration affects both the ecosystem and local land use, creating barren areas that
are no longer productive for the surrounding community Uncontrolled erosion from mining
sites further exacerbates land degradation, contributing to desertification.

5.3Air Pollution

Open-pit mining generates significant amounts of dust and airborne particles due to the
excavation of soil and the movement of heavy machinery. The images might depict dusty
conditions and bare soil, both of which are sources of particulate matter. Prolonged exposure
to this pollution can lead to respiratory issues for workers and nearby residents. Additionally,
emissions from mining equipment contribute to greenhouse gases, further exacerbating
climate change and regional air quality problems.

5.4 Deforestation and Habitat Destruction: Open-pit gold mining

The excavation process has destroyed habitats for numerous plant and animal species. The
removal of vegetation has disrupted food chains, leading to declines in biodiversity. Migratory
species that once relied on the area are now being forced to find alternative habitats. Open-pit
gold mining involves large-scale land clearing, which leads to the loss of forests, grasslands, and
other natural habitats. Vegetation is often cleared to make room for the extraction process, which
disrupts ecosystems and displaces wildlife. The removal of plant cover exposes the soil,
increasing the risk of erosion and causing loss of biodiversity. Habitats for birds, insects, and
other wildlife are destroyed, sometimes leading to the extinction of species that depend on that
environment. This destruction of ecosystems can have cascading effects throughout the food
chain, affecting not only local wildlife but also the livelihoods of people who rely on these
natural resources.

5.5 Biodiversity Loss

The conversion of natural landscapes into mining zones results in the destruction of habitats for
various plant and animal species. The images likely showcase barren areas where vegetation
once thrived, leaving wildlife displaced or unable to survive in the altered environment. This loss
of biodiversity can have cascading effects on the ecosystem, including disruptions in food chains
and reduced ecological resilience. In the long term, the inability to restore habitats diminishes the
natural richness of Awbare Woreda.

5.6 Contribution to Climate Change

Open-pit mining is an energy-intensive activity that relies heavily on fossil fuels for machinery,
transportation, and processing. This increases carbon emissions and contributes to global
warming. In addition, deforestation associated with mining activities reduces the amount of
carbon dioxide that trees can absorb from the atmosphere, exacerbating the effects of climate
change. Mining operations also release greenhouse gases from their processes, further
contributing to global warming
6.Social Impacts in Awbare Woreda: Open-Pit Gold Mining Sites

6.1 Health and Safety Concern

The image highlights unsafe working conditions, with miners working in open pits with minimal
protective equipment. Direct exposure to dust and possible contaminants poses health risks such
as respiratory issues, skin irritations, and long-term effects from heavy metal exposure if toxic
chemicals are involved

6.2 Economic Inequality

While gold mining generates significant revenue, the benefits are not equitably distributed.
Large-scale miners and middlemen often profit at the expense of local laborers, who are
poorly paid and work in unsafe conditions. This disparity has widened economic inequality
in the region.

6.3 Disruption of Traditional Livelihoods

Mining activities have disrupted traditional livelihoods such as farming and herding. Many
residents have been forced to abandon these practices due to land degradation and reduced
 water availability. This shift has increased dependency on mining-related jobs, which are
often unstable and hazardous.

6.4 Social Conflicts and Crime

The influx of migrant workers and the high value of gold have led to increased social
tensions. Conflicts over resources and land ownership are common, and crime rates,
including theft and violence, have risen. The lack of effective governance has further
exacerbated these issues.

6.5 Loss of Community Cohesion

The rapid changes brought about by gold mining have disrupted social structures in Awbare
Woreda. Traditional leadership systems have weakened, and disputes over mining profits
have created divisions within communities. The erosion of social bonds has made it difficult
to address collective challenges.
 Conclusion and Recommendations

The environmental and social impacts of open-pit excavation for gypsum, limestone, clay, and
gold in Ashi’a and Awbare Woredas are significant and multifaceted. In Ashi’a Woreda, the
extraction of gypsum, limestone, and clay has resulted in habitat destruction, biodiversity loss,
and soil degradation, with adverse effects on local ecosystems and agricultural productivity.
Additionally, dust pollution and water contamination have compromised air and water quality,
affecting both human health and livestock. Socially, the mining activities have disrupted
traditional livelihoods, particularly those dependent on agriculture and grazing, and have caused
community tensions due to limited benefit-sharing mechanisms.

In Awbare Woreda, open-pit gold mining has exacerbated similar environmental challenges, with
severe deforestation, water contamination from mercury and cyanide use, and land degradation
being particularly pronounced. These activities have also displaced communities and strained
access to vital resources like clean water and arable land. Furthermore, the influx of workers and
the expansion of informal mining activities have led to social challenges, including labor
exploitation, gender inequality, and weakened social cohesion.

Despite some economic benefits, including employment opportunities and infrastructure

development, the negative impacts far outweigh the benefits, as current practices fail to prioritize
sustainable development. The lack of effective environmental management and enforcement of
regulations has intensified these challenges, leaving local communities and ecosystems
vulnerable.

Recommendations

To mitigate the environmental and social impacts of open-pit excavation in Ashi’a and Awbare
Woredas, the following measures are recommended:

1. Strengthening Environmental Regulations

Implement stricter regulations for mining operations, with clear guidelines on land rehabilitation,
waste management, and pollution control. Enforce compliance through regular monitoring and
impose penalties for violations to ensure accountability.

2. Promoting Sustainable Mining Practices

Adopt environmentally friendly mining technologies to minimize soil erosion, water

contamination, and deforestation. Develop a phased mining approach that includes progressive
land reclamation and reforestation activities.

3. Enhancing Community Participation

Ensure that local communities are actively involved in decision-making processes, including
land allocation, mining approvals, and benefit-sharing mechanisms.Establish community
development funds financed by mining companies to support local infrastructure, education, and
health services.
4. Strengthening Livelihood Diversification, Provide alternative livelihood opportunities to
communities affected by mining, such as agroforestry, sustainable agriculture, and vocational
training programs. Support women and marginalized groups by promoting equitable access to
resources and economic opportunities.

5. Addressing Health and Safety Concerns, Conduct public awareness campaigns on the health
risks associated with mining and provide access to medical services for affected populations.

Equip workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) and enforce occupational safety
standards at mining sites.