Illegal Immigration and Its Socio-Economic Impact on Natural Resource-Rich Regions: The Case of Mineral Resources in Luili and Matala Mining Areas, Mumbwa District, Zambia

Abstract

This study examined the issue of illegal immigration and its socio-economic impacts, particularly in the mineral-rich areas of Luili and Matala in Mumbwa District, Zambia. The study aimed to look at a few key areas: firstly, it set out to assess the economic activities and job trends of illegal immigrants working in the mining sector; secondly, it wanted to understand how illegal immigration was affecting the local communities, particularly in terms of social interactions, community unity, and cultural exchanges; and thirdly, it focused on the environmental consequences of illegal immigration, particularly how it contributed to resource exploitation, pollution, and the overall degradation of the area’s natural environment. To gather the necessary information, a descriptive survey design was used. This design allowed for a thorough collection of opinio2ns and experiences from the people who lived through the situation. The data collection process was a combination of both qualitative and quantitative methods, such as interviews that guided respondents through detailed discussions, focus group conversations that brought different voices into the conversation, and structured questionnaires that kept everything in line and easy to analyse. The findings painted a clear picture. Illegal immigration in the area sparked fierce competition for the precious gold resources. With more people scrambling for the same resources, tensions grew. Alongside this economic scramble, the local communities faced rising social challenges, crime rates went up, creating a sense of unease and fear among locals. Furthermore, the environmental impact wasn’t just a minor issue; it was significant. Poor sanitation and substandard hygiene practices from illegal immigrants worsened the already fragile state of the environment, and the area began to feel the weight of its own neglect. The study concluded with key recommendations. To begin with, the Government should endeavor to increase the number of personnel in the Immigration Department so as to enhance border patrols and monitor border towns more effectively in order to curb the flow of illegal immigrants into the country. It is also crucial to step up awareness campaigns, urging local communities to resist the temptation to harbor or assist illegal immigrants. Instead, the focus should be on reporting them to the authorities, both the Immigration Department and the Zambia Police Service.