This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the environmental radioactivity associated with mining operations across Africa. It included 26 studies published between 2010 and 2025. A subgroup meta-analysis revealed that regions impacted by mining exhibit significantly elevated activity concentrations of radionuclides: the weighted averages for Radium-226 (226Ra), Thorium-232 (232Th), and Potassium-40 (40K) were 1097 ± 78.46 Bq/kg, 92.22 ± 8.26 Bq/kg, and 396.98 ± 35.18 Bq/kg, respectively, compared to non-mining regions. Further analysis indicated that phosphate mining areas had the highest 226Ra concentration at 1,653.02 ± 156.45 Bq/kg, 232Th at 150.41 ± 17.00 Bq/kg, and 40K at 360.82 ± 61.77 Bq/kg. In contrast, uranium mining areas showed lower concentrations; 226Ra at 121.88 ± 112.94 Bq/kg, 232Th at 132.40 ± 139.60 Bq/kg, and 40K at 341.40 ± 85.10 Bq/kg, while gold mining regions recorded 226Ra at 427.05 ± 97.17 Bq/kg, 232Th at 53.41 ± 28.32 Bq/kg, and 40K at 394.33 ± 46.38 Bq/kg. Radium Equivalent activity, external (Hex) and internal (Hin) hazard indices, annual effective dose, and Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) were higher in phosphate mining areas (1937 ± 180.39 Bq/kg; Hex = 5.12; Hin = 9.79; effective dose = 1.16 mSv/y; ELCR = 4.16 x 10-3) compared to uranium and gold mining areas. These findings revealed substantial radiological risks in mining regions across Africa, suggesting the urgent need for improved monitoring protocols.
Mphaga et al. (Thu,) studied this question.