When students swap studies for the allure of gold mining
A young man transports rocks from small scale mines to crushing sites in Geita Region. Dozens of children in Lwamgasa Village, Geita Region, have quit school this year, preferring to involve themselves in activities associated with small-scale gold mining in the area. The government is set to launch operations in unregistered mining areas, where children are often found engaged in hazardous activities. PHOTO | ROSEMARY MIRONDO
Geita. In Lwamgasa Village, Geita Region, about 60 children set to start Form One have vanished from classrooms, raising alarm among teachers and local leaders.
Despite strict attendance enforcement, the pull of nearby mining activities is proving stronger than the school bell, threatening the futures of these young students and the community’s efforts to keep children in education.
