Extractivism and Community Development in Ghana: Local Actors’ Perspectives from Gold Mining in Tarkwa and Obuasi

Abstract

This study employed a subjective evaluation method, using interviews, focus group discussions and observation to analyse the impact of gold mining on the development of Tarkwa and Obuasi in Ghana. Whilst the mining of gold was expected to translate into social and transformation of these communities, the results revealed that it has rather worsened living conditions, especially for indigenous people who are not employed by the sector. The instant livelihood outcomes arising from the deprivation of the use of land and pollution of the environment make the situation in Tarkwa and Obuasi seemingly comparable to the resource curse phenomenon. Averting the phenomenon in these communities needs an all-encompassing approach including effective implantation of the principles of corporate social responsibility and alternative livelihood programmes, especially in agriculture production.