Why does illegal sand mining persist despite existing laws?

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Illegal Sand Mining Persists Due to Economic Hardship and Lax Enforcement

Despite laws enacted between 1997 and 2017 that prohibit sand mining in Cape Verde and carry penalties of fines or imprisonment, the practice continues to thrive. This persistence is largely driven by the lack of viable economic alternatives for impoverished individuals, particularly women in rural areas, who rely on it as a primary means of survival. In some instances, authorities have been observed overlooking the activity when it is clearly a matter of necessity for the individuals involved.
Economic Necessity Drives Continued Practice

For many residents in Cape Verde's impoverished regions, particularly women, illegal sand mining represents the sole available avenue for earning income. Individuals like Maria Eleonore Monteiro, who has been engaged in this activity for over 15 years, describe it as their "only alternative" with no other job prospects. The strenuous nature of the work, which involves carrying heavy loads of sand, often results in physical ailments such as chronic back pain and scars from accidents incurred on the rocky beaches, as exemplified by Monteiro's own experience of spending days in bed due to pain.
Financial Incentives and Market Demand

The economic viability of illegal sand mining is further underscored by the prices paid by buyers. A load of sea sand, often gathered over weeks, can fetch around US$140, a sum significantly lower than sand extracted legally from quarries. This price point makes it an attractive option for contractors and resellers, ensuring a consistent demand that fuels the continued illegal extraction, even with the inherent risks and physical toll on the workers.
Challenges in Law Enforcement and Alternative Solutions

While laws are in place, their enforcement appears inconsistent, particularly in cases where sand mining is directly linked to survival. Reports indicate that authorities sometimes turn a blind eye to the practice, contributing to its persistence. Although efforts have been made in recent years to curb the illegal trade through crackdowns and awareness campaigns, and NGOs like Lantuna are working to provide alternative livelihoods such as pig or sheep farming to dozens of women, the deep-rooted economic pressures mean that illegal sand mining remains a critical, albeit perilous, survival strategy for many.

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Why does illegal sand mining persist despite existing laws?

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