Traditional institutions and environmental governance in gold mining areas: the case of Asutifi District, Ghana.

Abstract

Mining has effects on the life of local communities. The negative effects have often led to tensions over issues undermining traditional livelihoods. This study examined the role of traditional institutions involved in environmental governance in mining communities within the Asutifi District. Institutions matter for development and a study of the relationships between governmental technologies and traditional institutional norms and practices offers a productive inquiry of implementation of development activities. A qualitative case study was designed and quota sampling used to select 59 respondents from communities, traditional institutions, mining business and state institutions in the Asutifi District and beyond. Interviews and documentary review were the main data collection methods used. The study reveals that the traditional authorities played the role of development agents as well as custodians of those natural resources not vested in the state. The informal interactions of traditional institutions with modem organisations also enhanced their contribution to the general development of their jurisdictions. The limitations imposed on the authority of chiefs only to advisory roles in governance had weakened their participation in decisions on how natural resources were exploited. It is recommended that the government recognises traditional institutions as key stakeholders in mining governance and therefore be involved in the processes of licensing of mining beginning at the reconnaissance license stage.