Publications Mining & Community Research

Bansah, K. J., Sakyi-Addo, G. B. and Dumakor-Dupey, N. K. (2016)

In the Proceedings of International Conference & Exhibition on Advanced & Nano Materials (ICANM2016), August 1 ― 3, 2016, Montreal, Canada, 172 ― 179

Abstract

Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) is often condemned for its environmental and safety impacts. Indeed, it is uncommon to find reclaimed ASM sites in Ghana. This paper reports a successful reclamation effort by an ASM operator in Ghana. Innovative partnership that involves participation of people from host community was utilized to restore degraded ASM sites to support the livelihoods of local population and ensure environmental performance and stewardship. The construction phase of the reclamation process involved backfilling of excavated pits with waste rock (or overburden), distribution of organic-rich topsoil material across the site, and revegetation with native plant species. The successful reclamation of the ASM sites has potential to ensure post-mining landuse that contributes effectively to the productive capacity and stability of the ecosystem. ASM operators should be provided with technical and financial supports to practice reclamation and ensure sustainability in ASM i

Bansah, K. J., Sakyi-Addo, G. B. and Dumakor-Dupey, N. K. (2016)

Proceedings of International Conference & Exhibition on Advanced & Nano Materials (ICANM2016), August 1-3, 2016, Montreal, Canada, 38 ― 47

Abstract

Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) has been practiced in Ghana for many years, and contributes significantly toward socioeconomic development of communities where it occurs. In this paper, the contributions made by five different ASM operators drawn from three small-scale mining districts in Ghana are highlighted. Field visits were made to ASM sites and interviews were conducted with mine owners, supervisors, manual workers, contractors, and other indirect employees of ASM. The findings show significant employment to local population, and many social interventions such as rural electrification, provision of drinking water, construction of classroom blocks, provision of scholarships, and medical supports in the impoverished communities where the mining is practiced. It is concluded that ASM is an indispensable economic and social venture that requires technical and financial support from government, stakeholders and financial institutions to improve operations and ensure sustainabil

Bansah, J. K., Yalley, A. B., Duamkor-Dupey, N. K and Sakyi-Addo, G. B. (2016)

4th UMaT Biennial International Mining and Mineral Conference, CSR 24 ― 34

Abstract

Small scale mining continues to contribute significantly to the socio-economic needs of Ghana. The operations have transformed from artisanal to the use of sophisticated mining techniques in recent times. Although the introduction of the Small Scale Gold Mining Law of 1989 has helped in improving small scale mining activities and minimized associated environmental hazards, the sector continues to face significant environmental, safety, health and security challenges. These challenges have partly been attributed to lack of involvement by professional engineers that have technical expertise to ensure efficient and safe operations. The absence of trained engineers in the small scale mining sector is believed to have contributed to poor safety standards, lack of environmental protection, and poor choice of mining methods, resulting in fatalities, damage to the environment, and significant ore losses or dilution. This paper reports preliminary findings of an ongoing study that looks at how