An Exploration of Residents´ Perception of Gold Mining in Nkwanta Community in Ghana.

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study explores the perception of gold mining among the residents of the Nkwanta community in Ghana. This study employed a mixed methods approach with the use of relative importance index, logistic regression, and thematic analysis of open-ended responses to explore the research problem. The findings reveal an intricate perception of gold mining within the Nkwanta community. While the economic benefits of mining, such as employment and infrastructure development, were recognized, they were ranked lower in importance of the public health consequences of mining activities which were viewed as the most severe impact. The finding suggests that education shapes worldviews and value systems, with the least educated prioritizing immediate livelihood needs and the highly educated emphasizing long-term, non-visible consequences like environmental and cultural preservation. Additionally, the study found that higher annual incomes were associated with increased opposition to mining. In terms of proposed measures to improve the mining sector, the community emphasized four key priorities: strengthening regulations and enforcement, enhancing participatory processes in decision-making and oversight, supporting the formalization and training of small-scale miners, and requiring comprehensive impact planning through environmental assessments, reclamation plans, and closure plans. Keywords: Gold mining, community perception, public health, environmental impact, livelihood disruption, small-scale mining.