Towards Sustainable Blue Growth: Effects of Sand Mining on Coastal Communities of Kombo South, The Gambia

Sand mining along the coast is a common practice in many developing coastal states, including The Gambia, for numerous economic benefits. Although the sand mining industry holds significant economic value, its operations have substantially negative impacts on the coastal communities of Kombo South, The Gambia. This study was conducted in the coastal communities of Sanyang, Gunjur, and Tujereng. Using a mixed-methods research approach, a sequential exploratory research design was adopted for the data collection. An open-ended questionnaire was administered to 400 household heads, three community focus group discussions were held, key informants were interviewed, and field observations were conducted to examine the drivers of sand mining, its effects, and its governance. Through triangulation of the qualitative and quantitative findings, the study shows unemployment, financial gains, inadequate alternatives to coastal sand, industrial demand, land ownership, and job opportunities as key drivers of sand mining. Additionally, job creation and corporate social responsibility are benefits of sand mining, while damage to tourism development areas, roads, biodiversity, agricultural land loss, conflicts, and increased crime rates are burdens. The study concludes that the effects of sand mining can be mitigated through collaborative stakeholder participation in decision-making and the provision of alternatives to coastal sand for construction by the government and its relevant stakeholders.