Towards Sustainable Blue Growth: Socioeconomic effects of sand mining on coastal communities of Kombo South, The Gambia

Coastal areas worldwide are crucial for humanity. They provide habitat for over 70% of the global population and provide various livelihood means highlighting its significance for humans and other ecosystems. Sand mining along the coast is a common practice in many developing coastal states, including the Gambia for numerous economic benefits. Although there is huge economic value in the sand mining industry, sand mining operations have significant negative socioeconomic impacts on coastal communities of Kombo South, the Gambia. The study was conducted in three selected coastal communities of Sanyang, Gunjur and Tujereng. Using a mixed method research approach, a concurrent exploratory research design was adopted for data collection. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered face-to-face to 400 household heads to collect data on the socioeconomic effects of sand mining and in addition, three focus group discussions at the study communities, 10 key informants interviewed from government and communities, and field observation, while for the quantitative study. This study aims to examine socioeconomic effects of coastal sand mining and its governance in the context of blue growth. Through triangulation of the qualitative and quantitative findings, the study anticipates revealing significant challenges to sustainable livelihoods and environmental conservation due to sand mining. Also, the study provides recommendations to for improve sustainable resource management in a conflict-free environment, empower communities, and enhance blue growth in line with Sustainable Development Goals 10, 14, 15, 16, and 17, and the African Agenda 2063.