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Research Article
Assessing Coal Mine Gas Impacts on Workers at Yayo Conventional Underground Coal Mine, Oromia, Ethiopia
Ephrem Tilahun*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
69-77
Received:
23 May 2025
Accepted:
26 June 2025
Published:
28 July 2025
Abstract: Underground coal mining presents significant health and safety challenges, primarily due to the accumulation and emission of hazardous gases. This study investigates the occurrence, impact, and control of such gases at the Yayo Underground Coal Mine, located in the Illubabor Zone of the Oromia Region, Ethiopia. The Yayo mine, being one of the few operational underground coal mines in the country, provides a relevant case for assessing gas-related risks and developing appropriate safety strategies in Ethiopia. Field investigations, interviews, and review of operational records revealed the presence of four major hazardous gases: methane (CH₄), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S). These gases are released from coal seams, equipment operations, and decomposition of organic matter, and pose serious risks including fire and explosion, oxygen displacement, and respiratory illnesses. The study found that some areas of the mine experience gas concentrations that approach or exceed acceptable exposure limits, endangering both miners' health and mine product. The assessment also highlighted several limitations in the current mitigation measures at Yayo, including inadequate ventilation systems, the absence of real-time gas monitoring devices, limited use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and lack of worker training. These deficiencies significantly increase the risk of gas-related accidents and long-term health effects. To improve safety, the study recommends the implementation of modern mechanical ventilation systems, deployment of portable and fixed gas detectors, and mandatory use of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) in high-risk zones. Furthermore, it advocates for enhanced government regulation, periodic safety audits, and structured training programs for mine workers.
Abstract: Underground coal mining presents significant health and safety challenges, primarily due to the accumulation and emission of hazardous gases. This study investigates the occurrence, impact, and control of such gases at the Yayo Underground Coal Mine, located in the Illubabor Zone of the Oromia Region, Ethiopia. The Yayo mine, being one of the few o...
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Research Article
Researcher Commitment, Implementation of Research Findings in Environmental Sciences in the Lake Chad Basin: The Role of Psychological Dispositions
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
78-86
Received:
5 February 2025
Accepted:
12 March 2025
Published:
30 July 2025
Abstract: Problems of environmental degradation are a reality that contributes considerably to the turmoil of the Lake Chad Basin (LCB) populations. However, these populations do not take to the solutions put forth to solve the problems posed by the scarcity or degradation of water, air, soil and vegetation. This research aims at exposing the psychological factors that hinder research engagement in Environmental Sciences. Likewise, it examines those factors that inhibit the willingness of research instigators and facilitators to invest in this field, and the psychological factors underlying the non-implementation of research findings. Thus, this study aims at exploring how cognitive-affective factors of actors involved in environmental issues inhibit the researchers’ engagement in Environmental Sciences and the implementation of their findings in the LCB. The population of study is that of Cameroon, Chad and Niger. Using the technique of reasoned action, data has been collected from independent and institutional researchers, institutional managers, stakeholders in charge of implementing research programmes and infrastructure in Environmental Sciences, beneficiaries, and students. It stems from the content analysis carried out that on the one hand, the psycho-affective dispositions of the beneficiaries and programme initiators inhibit the mental dispositions of the researchers, and on the other hand induces other psychological mechanisms of down looking Environmental Sciences with regard to other scientific fields.
Abstract: Problems of environmental degradation are a reality that contributes considerably to the turmoil of the Lake Chad Basin (LCB) populations. However, these populations do not take to the solutions put forth to solve the problems posed by the scarcity or degradation of water, air, soil and vegetation. This research aims at exposing the psychological f...
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Research Article
Outline of the Practices Surrounding the Relocation of Local Communities by Local Mining Companies in Kolwezi: A Criminological Analysis
Mpoo Mokuba Alliance David*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 4, August 2025
Pages:
87-92
Received:
27 June 2025
Accepted:
28 July 2025
Published:
20 August 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ijepp.20251304.13
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Abstract: This article examines the relocation strategies of local communities by mining companies in Kolwezi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, adopting a criminological approach. Using a qualitative methodology, the study identifies three main actors: the State, local communities, and international mining companies. State government bodies issue mining permits and oversee their enforcement. Local communities, facing land-related issues, experience relocations, whether voluntary or involuntary. Mining companies, as permit holders, raise ethical concerns, including the inflation of relocation costs, mining pressure, undervaluation of compensation, and even forced evictions. The results highlight land conflicts and economic influence in these relocations. In conclusion, the article advocates for a criminological approach to understanding the social and economic dynamics of local community relocation in the complex mining context of Kolwezi, suggesting a thorough reflection on the implications of these practices. Local communities often find themselves abandoned by the state, or they are tricked into paying compensation to find other places to live, but the local committee members, including the state agents assigned to the case, sometimes manage to embezzle the money donated by the company for the benefit of the communities affected by the relocation. That is the reason for this research, which can also be a denunciation on our part, as well as a plea on behalf of the victims who remain powerless in the face of these practices.
Abstract: This article examines the relocation strategies of local communities by mining companies in Kolwezi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, adopting a criminological approach. Using a qualitative methodology, the study identifies three main actors: the State, local communities, and international mining companies. State government bodies issue mining...
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