Assessment of the environmental and health impacts of mining in Kolwezi: a comparative analysis of actual exposure and household perceptions in the Kanzenze health zone

Abstract

Introduction: Mining in Kolwezi is a major economic driver, but it is associated with growing environmental and health risks for local communities. This study aims to assess the actual impacts of these activities and how they are perceived by households in the Kanzenze health zone.

Methods: A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining a quantitative survey of 178 households using a structured questionnaire with a qualitative analysis based on semi-structured interviews. The data were analysed using statistical tests (Chi², correlation, regression) and a thematic analysis based on tropes.

Results: Over 70 per cent of households perceive significant environmental degradation, particularly of water and air quality. A high prevalence of respiratory, diarrhoeal and skin diseases was reported. Significant associations were observed between environmental exposure and morbidity (p < 0.05), as well as between the level of information and the perception of risks. Multivariate analysis (R² = 0.58) identified exposure, morbidity and information as the main determinants of perception.

Discussion: The results show an overall consistency between the measured impacts and their perception, although the latter is influenced by social and informational factors.

Conclusion: There is a need to strengthen environmental monitoring, community information and the accountability of mining stakeholders.

Keywords: Mining; Environmental risks; Community health; Risk perception; Kolwezi.

Received Date: June 19, 2026

Accepted Date: July 10, 2026

Published Date: August 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/896