Effects Of Soapstone Quarrying On Geomorphic And Socio- Economic Activities In Tabaka Region, Kisii County- Kenya

ABSTRACT

Soapstonequarryingactivitieshave immense effects on the physical and human environments. However, it is not clear how individual soapstone quarrying activities influence the occurrence of a specific geomorphic event. The effects of resultant soapstone residues on farming and whether soapstone rocks can regenerate from such debrisrequire deeper investigations. It is on these constructs that this study seeks to probe the influence of soapstone quarrying activities on geomorphic processes and farming activities within Tabaka region in Kisii County, Kenya.The study, therefore, seeks todetermine the association of soapstone quarrying activities with the occurrence of geomorphic processes; examine how such activities affect farming and suggest concreate policy framework for sustained soapstone quarrying activities in Tabaka region.The study used a multi-point descriptive and qualitative survey technique. It analysed four (4) out of twenty-four(24) quarries in the region and used interviews, observation, photography, measurements, questionnaires and group discussions to collect information.The study used excel and SPSS programmes to analyse data on different aspects of the study objectives. The hypotheses were tested using Pearson Rank Correlation to test the relationship between variables. It was determined that soapstone quarrying activities accelerate the rate of weathering, soil erosion and mass movement in the area under investigation. In addition, it was observed that soapstone quarrying activities takes up to 22% of the total farmland. At the policy level, the study found out that there are sufficient policy provisions including the: Constitution of Kenya 2010, Mining Act, 2014, the Environment Act,2012 and the Mining Policy 2011. These policies are not effectively being implemented and most of those interviewed (68%) are not aware of their provisions.The study concluded that soapstone quarrying activities influence the occurrence and the rate of mass movement, soil erosion and weathering processes. Soapstone quarrying activities has reduced the available land for farming thus curtailing agricultural production in Tabaka region. The study recommends that the local county government in conjunction with the Ministry of Environment and Mining should ensure that residents engaged in soapstone quarrying activities adhere to the provision of regulatory policies in force. Further, soapstone quarries should be owned by the national government for proper control and management.