Socio-Economic Impact of Sandstone Quarrying on Local Communities in Lekokoaneng, Lesotho

Sandstone quarrying in Lekokoaneng contributes to both local and national economic development, yet it raises concerns about environmental degradation and community livelihoods. Using a mixed-methods design framed by the Sustainable Livelihood Framework (SLF) and Sustainable Development Theory (SDT), 203 households were surveyed across five buffer zones (0–1000 m) around the formal quarry site in Lekoko-aneng, Berea District, Lesotho. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively; qualita-tive responses underwent thematic analysis and were transformed into quantifiable categories. Quarrying generated employment and small-business opportunities con-centrated within 0-600 m of the site, alongside elevated reports of dust, soil degradation and water contamination that undermined agriculture and health. Households nearest the quarry reported the highest income benefits (e.g., 35% via employment) but also the greatest environmental burdens; households furthest away reported fewer risks but limited economic gain. Thematic analysis yielded four domains: Socio-Economic Em-powerment, Livelihood Vulnerability, Health and Safety Risks, and Environmental Degradation and Control. Integrating SLF and SDT shows quarrying as a double-edged livelihood system, short-term financial gains coincide with erosion of natural, human and social capitals. Targeted environmental safeguards, labour formalisation and community-inclusive governance are essential to re-align quarrying with resilience and sustainability goals.