Mining-induced violent resistance: the case of salt mining near Keta lagoon

Abstract

ABSTRACT There has been an upsurge in mining-induced violent resistance within the vicinity of Keta lagoon in Ghana that questions the legitimacy of ongoing large-scale salt production by Kensington Salt Industries Ltd. Between 2013 and 2017, there was a series of violent protests and clashes at Adina and adjoining communities at the eastern banks of Keta lagoon, leading to deaths and to destruction of the company’s property and equipment. The upsurge of mining-induced violent resistance in Keta follows the displacement of thousands of indigenes and growing state preference for large-scale projects in the salt sector. The article thus questions the credibility of the company’s permits and calls on relevant state agencies to engage Kensington and the affected communities to address the outlined factors responsible for the resistance and conflict. This must be done in accordance with the minerals and mining policy framework as well as regional and continental policy initiatives that the government has committed to.