Abstract:
Galamsey, a popular name for small-scale mining in Ghana, is an important
livelihood for many rural Ghanaians. Although concerns have been raised in the
popular media about the adverse effects of galamsey on the environment, human
health, and livelihoods, there is a representational paucity of evidence regarding its
links with local food systems, particularly, from the perspective of affected mining
communities. The current study explored community perceptions and experiences
of galamsey and its perceived effects on food security and livelihoods in the East
Akim Municipality in the Eastern region of Ghana. Primary data was collected in
the East Akim Municipality of Ghana, using a photovoice method. Thirty-six male
and female adults were purposively selected with the help of a community focal
persons and advertisements in the study communities. Respondents participated
in a one-day photography training and thereafter, were deployed to take at least
fifteen photos that portray the effect of galamsey on food security and health.
Subsequently, each participant was asked to select five of the photographs they
have taken and explain why they captured that image. A photo exhibition was held
to facilitate community conversation and perspectives on the effects of galamsey
on food and nutrition security. Galamsey has resulted in degradation of, otherwise,
fertile agricultural land, and contamination of freshwater sources. As a
consequence, there is reduced cultivable land, reduced crop production, shortage
of essential staple foods, increase in food price, and increased consumption of
ultra-processed foods. There is also perception of increased exposure to heavy
metals like mercury in locally-produced food. Given the adverse health
consequences of both food and nutrition insecurity, and increased consumption of
processed foods, it is important that public and policy discussions to minimize the
effects of galamsey in Ghana should include considerations about food and
nutrition insecurity in mining communities.
