Abstract:
Artisanal gold mining is the oldest form of mining in Ghana and is mostly practised by rural dwellers living in poor socioeconomic conditions. Poverty among other factors pushes people into illegal artisanal mining which negatively affects their livelihood, well-being, communities and the environment. This study analysed the effects of artisanal gold mining on livelihoods of residents of mining communities within the Obuasi Municipality. Specifically, the study sought to identify the factors that influence residents of the mining community’s engagement in artisanal mining and assess the effects of artisanal mining activities on the livelihoods of residents in the Obuasi Municipality. Additionally, it sought to examine the coping strategies of residents whose livelihood had been affected by artisanal mining activities within the Obuasi Municipality. The study used a concurrent triangulation design and a sample of 428 respondents. In general, the study found that artisanal gold mining is plagued with conspicuous negative social and environmental consequences that affect the livelihood and well-being of members of affected communities in the study area as a lot of negative consequences. Additionally, the study discovered that illegal mining is one of the primary sources of income for the majority of Obuasi residents, even though some individuals continue to work in agriculture or engage in both unlawful mining and farming activities. The study recommends that more severe punitive measures should be adopted to serve as a deterrent to persons who are engaged in or may consider engaging in illegal artisanal mining activities.
