Adaptive Livelihood Strategies among Households after the Closure of Fluorspar Mining Company in Keiyo South Sub-County, Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya

Abstract

The establishment and existence of the Fluorspar Mining Company created direct and indirect employment opportunities for the local population. However, the closure of mining activities within the mining area may have led to social and economic challenges for the local communities. The study objective was to analyze the livelihood strategies among households in Keiyo South Sub-county Elgeyo Marakwet County Kenya. The theory informed the study of Redefinition of situation. Survey research design guided the study. The target population was all the households' heads in the study area. The sample size was 254 respondents. A multistage sampling technique was used. Data collection methods included questionnaires, interviews, and observation and focus group discussions. Quantitative data collected were analyzed using frequencies and percentages and presented in the form of matrix tables. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The results of the study show that mining is a major propellant of economic activities in most mining areas by creating wealth, providing jobs, and stimulating business ventures for community members. Further, closure of the company acted as a major economic setback to the community as a whole. The study findings also show that majority 91(44.4%) of respondents earned an income of 4001-8000ksh while minority 7(3.4%) earned an income of between 0-500kshs. The average income per month after closure was too low since their main source of income was lost, leaving them in despair. Communities and mineworkers should be involved in planning for company closure and all other matters that affect their livelihoods.