Know your NORM: Assessing awareness and perception of naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) among residents near the Geita gold mine in Tanzania

Abstract

This study investigated the spatial distribution and radiological risks of naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) in soils around the Geita Gold Mine (GGM) in Tanzania and assessed community awareness and perception of associated health and ecological risks. Soil samples were collected from ten farms located across six villages and analyzed using gamma-ray spectrometry to determine the activity concentrations of 226 Ra, 232 Th, and 40 K. The average concentrations were 53 ± 7 Bq kg −1 for 226 Ra, 36 ± 5 Bq kg −1 for 232 Th, and 205 ± 38 Bq kg −1 for 40 K. Radiological indices such as radium equivalent activity (Ra eq ), hazard indices (H ex , H in ), absorbed dose rate (D R ), annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), organ doses (D organ ) and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) were computed. All average values were below the global safety limits, although some localized values exceeded the thresholds, indicating the need for continued monitoring. A parallel cross-section survey of 390 residents revealed that only 35.4% were aware of the NORM and its associated risks. Awareness was significantly associated with education level, age and occupation (p < 0.01). Among informed respondents, perceptions of risks were highest for wildlife, water quality, and human health. Moreover, correlations between perceived environmental degradation and impacts on agriculture and biodiversity were also noted. The findings underscore the importance of integrating scientific assessments with public education to inform risk communication and environmental policy. While current radiological risks remain within acceptable limits, the combination of localized elevations in radionuclide levels and low public awareness highlight the need for targeted awareness campaigns and community engagement in mining-impacted regions.