Abstract

The study interrogates small scale mining as an alternative livelihood in Hope Fountain, Umguza District ward1. Interviews, questionares, FDGs and field observations were used to collect data. A sample of 48 small scale miners was used. Key informant interviews were also conducted with community leaders such as the ward councilor and a village head, as well as representatives from EMA and the MMMD. The study reveals that to a larger extent, small scale mining is a preferable alternative livelihood in Hope Fountain, but lack of adequate support and stringent legislations from the government and other relevant stakeholders as well as lack of business skills on behalf of the small scale miners themselves is presenting challenges to the sustainability of the livelihood.