Exploring prioritization of wellbeing and health impacts for mining communities during the mining life cycle within the sub-Saharan Africa context: a systematic review

Introduction Sub-Saharan African countries possess rich mineral resources that offer socio-economic development opportunities for mining communities. However, the prioritization of health and wellbeing impacts during the mining life cycle remains unclear. This review examines the focus on health and wellbeing in mining communities within the sub-Saharan African context. Methods An online literature search was conducted across four databases (Scopus, PubMed, ProQuest, Web of Science) using the PICOS framework for eligibility criteria. The Rayyan tool was used for screening and data extraction. Results 45 studies were included (20 qualitative, 25 quantitative, including mixed methods). Most studies were from South Africa. Health impacts identified included: (a) HIV/AIDS, (b) Tuberculosis (TB), (c) Hypertension, and (d) Health Impact Assessment (HIA). The study also explored the mining life cycle stages-Exploration, Development, Production, and Closure-focusing on health and wellbeing prioritization. Conclusions While mining offers socio-economic benefits, health and wellbeing impacts are not prioritized, especially in the exploration stage. Tools like HIAs provide valuable insights, but mining communities continue to face health challenges, both positive and negative. Prospero CRD42023474494.