Effects of Mining and Power Station Gas Emissions on Health of the Urban Population in Zimbabwe: a case of Hwange Thermal Power Station in Matabeleland North Region

Abstract

This study sought to analyse the impacts of gaseous emissions from operations involved in the generation of thermal power in Zimbabwe and elsewhere in the developing nations, but with particular reference to Hwange Power Station, basically focusing on the health of local residents of high density areas bordering the station. Concerns of the residents and stakeholders from EMA, health and education departments on the apparent exposure of human life to air borne pollution emanating from power plant operations were instrumental in motivating the study. To achieve set objectives a stratified random sampling technique was used to draw a sample of 140 participants from an estimated population of 1401 inhabitants comprising employees of ZPC, Ingagula Residents Association, HPS Workers Committee colliery mine workers, medical staff at Hwange and the general populace. These were used for purposes of primary data collection where questionnaires were employed as the main instrument for soliciting responses from participants. Direct observations coupled with oral interviews were also used on the medical staff and the HPS Workers Committee, in an effort to establish the nature of health complications associated with gas emissions from the power station; establish their effects and mitigation strategies. Secondary data to compliment the primary gathered facts was obtained from the company records, local clinics and archival records provided by stakeholders. The resultant data was presented through narrations, graphs and tables which were obtained by employing the quantitative method of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) windows based program as an analytic tool.  The major findings of this study were that, gaseous emissions are a serious health hazard particularly to people exposed to massive emissions such as the Hwange community. It was also observed that the longer people are exposed to such environments the more susceptible they become to acute respiratory infections. The study therefore opines that the existing power generating plant should be rehabilitated to incorporate de-sulphurising units, which reduce gaseous emissions and air pollution. However considering the current economic hardships facing the country this cannot be an easy option.