SOAPSTONE MINING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY: A CASE STUDY OF TABAKA REGION, KISII COUNTY

Abstract

Environmental sustainability in mining is a global concern, yet empirical evidence on the environmental impacts of soapstone mining in Kenya remains limited. This study assessed the environmental effects of soapstone mining, examined stakeholder roles, evaluated waste management practices, and established sustainability strategies in Tabaka, Kisii County. Using a descriptive research design, 365 respondents, comprising miners and county officials, were sampled using the Yamane formula. The study employed semi-structured questionnaires, Key Informant Interviews, and five Focus Group Discussions to collect data. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS through descriptive statistics, multiple regression, one-way ANOVA, chisquare tests, Friedman's test, and cross-tabulations, while qualitative data were thematically analysed. The findings provided insights into the environmental effects of soapstone mining, stakeholder contributions, waste disposal practices, and strategies for enhancing environmental sustainability in the industry. Results showed major impacts: 69.67% of respondents reported quarry water accumulation, 55.46% vegetation loss, 41.80% landscape alteration, and 41.26% debris heaps; fewer common effects included water and noise pollution (14.75% each) and garbage dumping (13.38%). ANOVA revealed marginal differences by occupation (F=7.62, p=0.050), with sculptors (mean=2.42) and excavators (mean=2.04) most affected. Community participation (62.30%) and sustainable policy adoption (59.56%) were the most supported strategies, followed by county/NEMA interventions (30.33%) and quarry rehabilitation (15.57%). Chi-square tests showed no significant association between stakeholder roles and strategy preferences (χ²=35.62, p=0.150), though cross-tabulations indicated role-specific patterns. Friedman's test confirmed significant strategy ranking differences (χ²=72.34, p<0.001), prioritising participation (mean rank=1.82) and policies (mean rank=1.95). Qualitative findings echoed the quantitative results, highlighting economic dependence on mining, environmental degradation, institutional gaps, and grassroots measures such as reforestation. In conclusion, soapstone mining in Tabaka caused significant environmental disruption, requiring multi-stakeholder collaboration, strong policy enforcement, and participatory governance aligned with local contexts. The findings addressed a key knowledge gap and offered evidence-based guidance for sustainable mining policy in Kisii County.