Indigenes’ Perceptions of Gold Mining in Their Communities: A Case Study of Gold Exploration in Nadowli District of the Upper West Region of Ghana

Abstract

This paper explores the perceptions of indigenes about the mining of gold in their communities in the Nadowli district of the Upper West region in Ghana. The study adopted a qualitative research approach using the Chere community as a case study. Interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect the data. The data was analysed through thematic analysis. The findings showed that indigenes of the mining community have mixed perceptions of the gold exploration in their community. On one hand, the gold exploration has transformed and improved livelihoods of local communities in the Nadowli district. On the other, it has affected the environment negatively. The activities of mining have myriad impacts on the life of the community (local economy, local politics, education, health, marriage, religion). There is a growing tension between the host community and the principal mining firm operating in the Chere community. Despite the benefits that the host community has obtained, activities of mining are viewed as serious threats to community settlement and farmlands. The interaction between the local community and mining firm could degenerate into a full-scale violent conflict. It is recommended that appropriate platforms be created for host communities and the mining firm to interact to address grievances arising out of the mineral exploration in the Nadowli district. Keywords: Indigenes, Perceptions, Gold Mining, Nadowli, Upper West, Ghana DOI: 10.7176/JRDM/90-05 Publication date: January 31 st 2023