Combating illegal mining in Ghana: The role of opinion leaders

(Evidence from the Ntobrosu community)

University of Ghana Business School - Legon, Ghana

Abstract

The mining industry has been overwhelmed by the activities of small scale miners. These miners and their activities are considered a nuisance to the environment and the sustainability of the industry.

The government through its agencies (Ministry of Mines and Natural Resources) directly handles the issues of illegal mining. However, the roles of opinion leaders such as chiefs, assembly members, District Chief Executives, clergy and other community organizers in the community cannot be disregarded.

This research unravels how opinion leaders influence the activities of illegal mining in Ntobroso. The study used in-depth interview guide and semi-structured questionnaires to obtain information from some of the direct and indirect stakeholders of the mining activities in the district for the study.

The research proved that opinion leaders are doing little to curb the situation because they do not feel strong enough to fight the menace but rather need strong men “government support” to come to their aid.

In line with the findings, the study recommends the need to collaborate with all opinion leaders such as the leadership of the district assembly, clergy, Imam and other recognizable groups such as dressmakers and tailors association, market women association etc who are highly respected in the community to engage the miners on the risks their activities pose on the community. Traditional authorities should be transparent enough and desist from permitting illegal miners to operate in their communities and discourage private land owners from doing same.

Key Words: Illegal Mining, opinion leaders, community, government

BIOGRAPHY

Sylvia Lartey

Information Assistant, Information Services Department

Sekyere Central District Assembly

Nsuta Ashanti

Ghana

Since 2011, Sylvia has built a rich work experience from both the public and private sector. A Civic Education Officer from NCCE, and head of Training from Graduate Training Institute, she currently assists the Information Services Department at the Sekyere Central District Assembly at Nsuta in Ashanti Region.

Contact Information

Information Services department

Sekyere Central District Assembly

P.O. Box 100

Nsuta- Ashanti

Ghana

Tel +233 246469424

Email: awurakumiwaa@gmail.com

LinkedIn: https/linkedin.com/sylvialartey

Category : Delegate Presenter category (students) Name for certificate: Sylvia Lartey