Assessing the extent and impacts of illegal sand mining along the Wild Coast Zone of the Amathole District in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa
| dc.contributor.advisor | Nel, W. | |
| dc.contributor.advisor | Kalumba, A.M. | |
| dc.contributor.author | Dandala, Mzikayise Colemand | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2026-09-08T13:45:41Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2026-09-08T13:45:41Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2024 | |
| dc.description | Masters dissertation | |
| dc.description.abstract | Sand mining is widespread, and its practice is increasing in developing and developed nations. However, the increased demand for sand has led some communities to mine sand illegally. Illegal sand mining brings irreversible environmental damage, and the physical and environmental effects of sand mining have developed into crises that often result in changes in land use dynamics. The Wild Coast zone of South Africa is recognised as an international biodiversity hotspot. Therefore, assessing the extent and impacts of illegal sand mining in this biodiversity hotspot is crucial for guiding environmental planning. However, traditional methods for monitoring illegal sand mining are time-consuming and costly. This study employed a monitoring and modelling spatiotemporal approach, which is non-destructive, costeffective, covers larger areas, and is a time-saving alternative to conventional methods. The research objectives were: (i) to evaluate the spatial and temporal trends of illegal sand mining (i.e., pit size) along the coastal zone from Kei River mouth to Lubanzi River mouth over the last 22 years (2000 – 2022) and (ii) to assess the impact of illegal sand mining activities on the landscape dynamics (i.e., land use change and vegetation cover change) in the study area. Aerial images and field surveys were used to assess the extent of illegal sand mining over the last few years. Additionally, 30-meter resolution images of Landsat from 2000 to 2022 were used to assess land cover and vegetation changes. The comprehensive analysis of illegal sand mining activities along the Eastern Cape coast from 2000 to 2022 has provided valuable insights into the escalating challenges of unauthorised extraction. The study identified a minimum of 24 illegal sand mining sites, with evidence indicating a significant growth in illegal sand mining activities over the observed period. The spatial extent of sand pits has expanded, reflecting the increasing demand for construction materials driven by rapid population growth. The physical damage caused by illegal sand mining was observed across most areas, with noticeable aftereffects such as the creation of sand pits and dumping. These findings underscore the urgency of addressing the drivers behind the growth of illegal sand mining, particularly the need for stronger legislation and law enforcement to curb unauthorised extraction. The assessment of the impact of illegal sand mining on landscape dynamics revealed significant changes in land use patterns, particularly in the conversion of vegetated lands to bare soil. The transition from other vegetation to bare soil highlights the early stages of environmental degradation resulting from sand mining activities. Additionally, the decline in forest and water areas underscores the loss of critical ecosystems along the coastal zone. This study highlights the pressing need for comprehensive regulatory measures and stakeholder collaboration to address the growing threat of illegal sand mining. By understanding sand mining activities' spatial and temporal trends and their impact on landscape dynamics, policymakers can develop targeted interventions to safeguard coastal ecosystems and promote sustainable development in the Eastern Cape region and beyond. | |
| dc.identifier.citation | Dandala, M. (2024) Assessing the extent and impacts of illegal sand mining along the Wild Coast zone of the Amathole District in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Master of Science in Geography dissertation. Alice, South Africa: University of Fort Hare. | |
| dc.identifier.uri | http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11837/5098 | |
| dc.language.iso | en | |
| dc.publisher | University of Fort Hare | |
| dc.subject | Coastal zone management -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape | |
| dc.subject | Legislation -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape | |
| dc.subject | Remote sensing -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape | |
| dc.subject | Geographic information systems -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape | |
| dc.title | Assessing the extent and impacts of illegal sand mining along the Wild Coast Zone of the Amathole District in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa | |
| dc.type | Thesis |