Assessment of alternative livelihoods for mining communities of the Upper Denkyira east municipality, Ghana

Abstract

This study is conducted to assess the alternative livelihood in mining communities of the Upper Denkyira East Municipality, Ghana. this study sought to address four specific objectives; to explore the collaboration that exists between the District and the MLNR/ MDF in implementing the alternative livelihood programme, to examine the economic activities that were in place before oil production, to analyze the influence of alternative livelihood on beneficiaries, and to explore the challenges encountered in the implementation of the intervention. The study employed interview schedule to collect data from all beneficiaries of the ALP in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality whereas in-depth interview guide was employed for key stakeholders. Results obtained were analyzed using Statistical Package for Service Solutions (SPSS). The main findings indicate that most of the beneficiaries were generally satisfied with the Oil Palm Production as alternative livelihood. Also, the beneficiaries indicated the ALP was preferred to their previous jobs. There was collaboration between the Upper Denkyira East Municipal Assembly and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources/ Minerals Development Fund in the implementation of the ALP. The main challenge met by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources/ Minerals Development Fund in effecting the ALP was minimal cooperation from chiefs. Based on these findings, it was recommended that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources/ Minerals Development Fund should broaden the base of the projects under the ALPs to other communities within the Municipality.