The Experiences of Young Workers in Artisanal Mining: The Case of Wera Jarso Woreda
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2014-06
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
AAU
Abstract
This study is concerned with assessing the work experience of young workers who are engaged
in artisanal mining (AM) in Wera Jarso Woreda, Oromia Region, with the objective of
exploring the major factors relating to their work. The researcher has employed case study
method with a descriptive purpose, supported by qualitative research methodology. The basic
research question was: what factors constitute the work experience of young workers? For this
purpose, the data requirements for the study were collected from different sources. The primary
data were collected from 22 respondents of which 14 of them (young workers) and the rest eight
respondents (community members) were selected by using purposive sampling using their
leadership position and expertise as points of reference for community member. Moreover, the
study made use of documents as secondary data sources such as firms’ guiding principles, rules
and regulations; reports of ILO and other organizations, and articles. In-depth interview, key
informant interview, FGD and observation checklist were also used as tool of collecting primary
data. The data collected were analyzed using thematic analysis or major idea analysis. The
findings from the study revealed that the young workers are having unpleasant experiences as
reflected in the work setting (having poor social condition, unsuitable landscapes, deteriorated
environment accompanied with low payment), health and occupational safety issues (being
exposed to health problems, absence of health insurance, absence of safety equipments, using
outdated and obsolete tools and exposure to injuries). They have little or no professional
knowledge about the extraction, processing, production and marketing process of the minerals.
The challenges faced by young workers categorized in to four major domains: education, health,
economic and social domains of life, benefits obtained from being involved in AM and finally
future aspiration and goals of young workers are determinants to change their current situation
basically by being involved in education or business. The study has concluded an intensive social
work intervention at all levels is needed and this implies that, social workers are expected to
integrate problem solving techniques and models related to the problems young workers by
involving themselves in research, advocacy, practice and education.
Description
Keywords
Young workers, work setting, health and occupational safety, challenges, knowledge about AM, benefits of AM and, aspirations and goal.