Small-scale Mining and Livelihood Dynamics in North-eastern Ghana: Sustaining Rural Livelihoods in a Changing Environment

Abstract

This article examines the dynamics of rural livelihoods in north-eastern Ghana within the context of a changing environment using evidence from the artisanal small-scale mining (ASM) sector. It employs both quantitative and qualitative research methods. The study shows that the challenges which confront rural subsistence farmers, including production risks of land degradation and encroachment on farmlands by ASM operations, are the main drivers of livelihood transformation by rural farmers. The study underscores that many rural farmers are pushed into ASM out of necessity, rather than being pulled by other reasons including a ‘get rich quick’ expectation. Drawing on the prevailing trend of livelihood diversification in rural communities, the study recommends incorporation of ASM activities into a broader rural livelihood framework through the development of supplementary livelihood programmes. This can provide opportunities for sustaining rural livelihoods. Although there has been recent literature on the dangers and contributions of ASM, this study makes a contribution to development studies thinking about ASM by underscoring the vulnerabilities as well as the resiliency of ASM households and communities.