Effect of Illegal Mining (Galamsey) and Land Degradation; A Case Study in Wasa Akropong
Chapter One
Objective of the study
The objectives of the study are;
To achieve this overarching goal, the study will be guided by the following specific objectives:
- To identify the scale and scope of illegal mining activities in the chosen study area, including the types of minerals extracted and the methods employed.
- To involves mapping and analyzing the various forms of land degradation resulting from galamsey, such as soil erosion, deforestation, and loss of agricultural land.
- To investigate the direct and indirect environmental consequences of illegal mining, focusing on water pollution, soil contamination, and disruptions to ecosystems.
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEWED OF RELATED LITERATURE
Characteristics of “galamsey” operations or Small Scale Mining in Ghana.
Mining involves the process of digging the earth to extract minerals which are found in it. It is one of the oldest means of survival practiced by man. It has therefore played a very important role in world economic development. There are two methods of mining; surface mining and underground mining. Surface mining, also known as open-pit mining is undertaken when the mineral deposit lies on the surface of the earth. This method is relatively more cost-effective and uses fewer workers to produce the same amount of ore compared to underground mining. When the mineral deposit lies deep below the surface of the earth the underground mining method is used. Mining in general is a capital intensive venture and the risk and rewards are also very high for both the mining companies and communities (Marshall, 2002). Small scale mining (SSM) has been going on for a long time in Ghana. It was legalized by the PNDC Law 218, 1989. Small Scale Mining is normally carried out by the concession owner who engages people to dig for the minerals which he buys. Small Scale Mining activities can also lead to pollution of water bodies and soils by mercury. They also sometimes dig their pits indiscriminately. In Ghana, an area of 25 acres is the maximum allowable area that is allocated to each person or group of persons as a concession for small scale mining (Appiah, 1998). Throughout developing economies with rich mineral reserves, particularly those found in Africa, thousands of the unemployed youth dig for fortunes in an unregulated manner and usually illegally. They normally use any means available to them to mine, irrespective of the effects that their activities might have on their environment and even to their own lives (Harkinson, 2003). Small-scale mining brings several benefits to developing countries, manifested mainly as employment and revenue. Although not capital intensive as compared with large scale mining, small-scale mines require sufficient manpower; labour-intensive small-scale mining operations are economically feasible because investment costs per job can be as low as 10 per cent as those costs in large mining operations. Small-scale mining, therefore, has a major impact on the employment situation in the developing world, especially in rural areas where there are few alternatives (Hilson, 2001). Small-scale gold mining has gained global importance both as a source of subsistence for the poor and as a cause of environmental degradation (Kwesi & Kwasi, 2011). Anglo Gold Ashanti is the only company which currently operates an underground mine at Obuasi. The other mines are surface mine operations since surface mining is said to be relatively cheaper to operate. Tarkwa – Nsuaem municipal in the Western region according to Akabzaa and Darimani (2001) has the highest concentration of mining companies in Ghana, the West African sub-region and possibly the African continent as a whole. There are eleven (11) large scale miners in Ghana and seven (7) of them can be found in the Tarkwa – Nsuaem municipality. There are large deposits of both gold and manganese in the area. However, mineral deposits are found all over Ghana.
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
In this chapter, we described the research procedure for this study. A research methodology is a research process adopted or employed to systematically and scientifically present the results of a study to the research audience viz. a vis, the study beneficiaries.
RESEARCH DESIGN
Research designs are perceived to be an overall strategy adopted by the researcher whereby different components of the study are integrated in a logical manner to effectively address a research problem. In this study, the researcher employed the survey research design. This is due to the nature of the study whereby the opinion and views of people are sampled. According to Singleton & Straits, (2009), Survey research can use quantitative research strategies (e.g., using questionnaires with numerically rated items), qualitative research strategies (e.g., using open-ended questions), or both strategies (i.e., mixed methods). As it is often used to describe and explore human behaviour, surveys are therefore frequently used in social and psychological research.
POPULATION OF THE STUDY
According to Udoyen (2019), a study population is a group of elements or individuals as the case may be, who share similar characteristics. These similar features can include location, gender, age, sex or specific interest. The emphasis on study population is that it constitutes of individuals or elements that are homogeneous in description.
This study was carried to examine effect of illegal mining(galamsey) and land degradation .Wasa Akropong forms the population of the study.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents the analysis of data derived through the questionnaire and key informant interview administered on the respondents in the study area. The analysis and interpretation were derived from the findings of the study. The data analysis depicts the simple frequency and percentage of the respondents as well as interpretation of the information gathered. A total of eighty (80) questionnaires were administered to respondents of which only seventy-seven (77) were returned and validated. This was due to irregular, incomplete and inappropriate responses to some questionnaire. For this study a total of 77 was validated for the analysis.
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Introduction
It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain effect of illegal mining(galamsey) and land degradation. a case study in wasa akropong. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing effect of illegal mining(galamsey) and land degradation. a case study in wasa akropong
Summary
This study was on effect of illegal mining(galamsey) and land degradation. a case study in wasa akropong. Three objectives were raised which included; To identify the scale and scope of illegal mining activities in the chosen study area, including the types of minerals extracted and the methods employed, to involves mapping and analyzing the various forms of land degradation resulting from galamsey, such as soil erosion, deforestation, and loss of agricultural land and to investigate the direct and indirect environmental consequences of illegal mining, focusing on water pollution, soil contamination, and disruptions to ecosystems.. A total of 77 responses were received and validated from the enrolled participants where all respondents were drawn from wasa akropong. Hypothesis was tested using Chi-Square statistical tool (SPSS).
Conclusion
In conclusion, this study has shed light on the intricate relationship between illegal mining (galamsey) and its profound impact on land degradation. The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive understanding, effective policies, and sustainable interventions to address the multifaceted challenges posed by this destructive practice. The study’s key findings and implications can be summarized as follows:
- Environmental Degradation: The study has revealed that galamsey activities lead to severe environmental degradation, including soil erosion, deforestation, and contamination of water bodies. These consequences disrupt ecosystems, threaten biodiversity, and compromise the provision of ecosystem services.
- Socioeconomic Ramifications: The study’s insights demonstrate the adverse socioeconomic effects of galamsey-induced land degradation. Impacted communities face reduced agricultural productivity, loss of livelihoods, and increased poverty levels, highlighting the importance of holistic approaches to address both environmental and social dimensions.
- Policy and Regulatory Gaps: The study has illuminated the regulatory challenges and enforcement gaps that contribute to the persistence of illegal mining. The need for comprehensive regulatory reforms, strengthened law enforcement, and enhanced governance mechanisms is evident for curtailing galamsey activities.
- Community Involvement: The study emphasizes the significance of engaging local communities in the management and mitigation of illegal mining’s impacts. Community-driven solutions and awareness campaigns can foster ownership, empower affected communities, and align interventions with local needs.
- Long-Term Sustainability: The study underscores the necessity of adopting sustainable land management practices that strike a balance between economic development and environmental preservation. Responsible mining practices, land reclamation, and ecological restoration are crucial components of achieving long-term sustainability.
- Knowledge and Advocacy: The study contributes to advancing knowledge in the field by providing evidence-based insights into the complex dynamics of illegal mining and land degradation. These insights can serve as a foundation for advocacy efforts aimed at raising awareness and driving positive change.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The study highlights the need for interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers, policymakers, environmentalists, and local stakeholders. Addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by galamsey requires a holistic approach that considers ecological, social, and economic factors.
Recommendation
Based on the findings, the study recommends a series of measures, including strengthening legal frameworks, promoting responsible mining practices, enhancing monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, and fostering community participation in decision-making processes.
References
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