THE CULTURAL IMPLICATIONS OF SMALL-SCALE MINING: IN THE TALENSI DISTRICT OF THE UPPER EAST REGION OF GHANA

Abstract

This study is of the view that previous researches on the activities of illegal mining have neglected the implications of small-scale mining on the culture of host communities. The study sought to examine the cultural implication of smallscale mining on the wellbeing of the host communities in the Tallensi area of the Upper East Region. This study adopted an instrumental case study design, as a strategy of inquiry which enabled the study to understand the cultural implications of small-scale mining without generalizing to a larger population. It adopted mixed approach to data collection and analyses so as to enable the study add figures to the descriptions given by the respondents. Its findings include: the depletion of raw materials for the craft industry ; the lack of interest by the youth in craft activities due to high returns from the mines; the degradation of the land occasioned by the wanton destruction of the surface of the land has negatively affected the natural landscape design of some communities under study; the study confirmed the view that policy makers, mining companies and illegal miners hardly consult host communities before undertaking their mining activities; the study revealed that even though there are instances of violent confrontations between some community leaders and among galamsey operators the incidences of violence in the study communities have been minimal in the last five years. Finally, the study observed that illegal mining activities do not occur on the cultural heritage sites in the five communities. Some recommendations arising out of the findings of study are: communities to designate site as sources of raw materials for craft industry; setting up of community sanctioned task force to ensure that galamseyers refill pits; the need for state institutions to adopt a purposive approach in dealing with illegal miners.