Mining-induced displacement and resettlement in Ghana: an assessment of the prospects and challenges in selected mining communities

Abstract

Mining-induced displacement and resettlement is an important development issue because it significantly influences the livelihoods and sustainability of mining communities. This study seeks to assess the effects of mining-induced displacement and resettlement on the livelihoods of households in selected mining communities in Ghana. The mixed-method approach was used to conduct this study, permitting the collection of both quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative data were collected through the interview of 195 household heads, while the qualitative data involved the interview of six representatives of relevant institutions. The results of the study showed that mining-induced displacement has both positive and negative effects on indigenous mining communities. In terms of the positive effects, there was an improvement in access to social infrastructure such as health, education, and potable water in the study communities. The results of the study also showed that there is an increase in the disposable income of the respondents, and this can be attributed to the increase in service-related activities. In terms of the negative effects of mining-induced displacement and resettlement, there was loss of social and human capital, alterations in economic activities, lower satisfaction with life (SWL), and loss of natural capital in the indigenous communities. The lack of awareness of the regulations that guide resettlement and displacement among indigenous mining communities has adversely affected their ability to effectively participate in the resettlement process. There is therefore the need to educate mining communities on the regulations that guide the resettlement process. Additionally, mining companies should conduct impact assessments in the resettled communities to assess the effects of the resettlement process on the indigenous communities.