Ghana's Journalists Association (GJA) President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has called for a broader assessment of mining's true costs. He stated that the economic value of gold must not overshadow the value of water, fertile land, healthy ecosystems, and community well-being. This urgent appeal underscores a critical shift in how Ghana should view its mineral wealth.
Mr. Dwumfour emphasized that mining decisions must consider the people whose lives and livelihoods are directly affected by mineral extraction. He argued that environmental degradation's consequences could extend far beyond the immediate financial returns generated by the industry. This perspective highlights the human element often overlooked in economic calculations.
This call for a holistic approach fits into Ghana's ongoing national dialogue about sustainable resource management. Ghana's economy relies significantly on its mineral resources, particularly gold, which contributes substantially to export earnings and government revenue. However, the environmental and social impacts of mining, including illegal mining (galamsey), have become a major concern, affecting water bodies, agricultural lands, and public health. Previous government initiatives have struggled to balance economic gains with environmental protection.
Speaking at the National Mining Dialogue, Mr. Dwumfour stressed, “There is a community, there is a farmer, there is a household, there is a child.” He added that behind the economic statistics associated with mining are people whose lives depend on the land and natural resources being exploited. This statement underlines the human cost often associated with resource extraction.
The implications of this stance are significant for Ghana's mining sector and its regulatory framework. Policymakers will face increased pressure to integrate environmental and social impact assessments more rigorously into licensing and operational approvals. Mining companies will need to prioritize community engagement and sustainable practices to secure and maintain their social license to operate. This shift could lead to stricter environmental regulations and greater corporate social responsibility requirements, potentially impacting operational costs and investment decisions in the sector. The long-term sustainability of Ghana's natural capital is at stake.
Mr. Dwumfour further cautioned against treating gold as the only valuable resource in mining areas. He stated, “Gold has economic value, but so has water, so has fertile land, so has a healthy environment.” These resources are essential for human life, agriculture, and community sustainability. Their value must be considered when assessing mining's overall benefits. He noted that serious damage to natural resources cannot simply be offset by calculating a corresponding financial loss. Once water resources are polluted or land degraded, restoration is complex, expensive, and often incomplete.
The GJA President clarified that his argument is not against mining itself, but for responsible mining. He said, “The real question is whether Ghana can benefit from its mineral resources whilst protecting the natural system that sustains life.” This distinction is crucial for framing future policy discussions. He also stressed the importance of community acceptance, arguing that legal approval alone does not guarantee a company will enjoy the confidence of its host community. “Social licence must be earned,” he asserted. This means mining companies must build relationships with communities, respect their concerns, and demonstrate that their activities will not undermine local livelihoods. This engagement must be continuous, not limited to the initial approval phase. Securing necessary permits should be seen as the beginning of a company's responsibility, not the end of its obligations.