SURFACE MINING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT IN THE TANO-SURAW FOREST RESERVE IN THE SEFWIWIAWSO DISTRICT: GHANA.

Abstract

The study investigatedthe environmental challenges posed by surface mining, its effects on the livelihoods of vulnerable groups andthe contributions of surface mining to community based development in Paboase and Akoti communities. Simple random and purposive sampling techniques were employed to reach 255 respondents. Primary data were obtained using structured interviews, questionnaire, focus group discussion and observation guide. The data were analyzed and presented using frequency tables and cross tabulation on descriptive perspective.Surface mining has resulted in loose ridges of mine waste on large expanse of vegetated land. Opened mine waste dumped and the movement of heavy duty trucks produced enormous dust settling on the vegetation; limiting respiration and photosynthesis. Pollutants, though within permissible levels,endanger the biotic component of the ecosystem.Majority of the community members are farmers. Surface mining on their farms and the high technology employed in the miningnarrows their livelihood strategies. Indigenes have very limited skills to explore alternative livelihood sources. The communities have not experienced significant development in the lives of the people because the mining industry is well structured that very little economic relation exist between the mining company and the local economy.