Social justice campaign gives voice to communities affected by mining
Ghana’s minerals extractive sector is making fortunes, but in many mining communities, it is leaving behind a different story: broken livelihoods, environmental damage and communities demanding their fair share. Now, a new social justice campaign dubbed “Uplifting the Voices of Mining Communities”, is putting voices of communities at the centre of Ghana’s mining debate in […]
Ghana's mining industry is generating substantial wealth, yet the benefits are not reaching all communities equally. Many mining areas are experiencing negative impacts such as depleted livelihoods, environmental degradation and protests for a fair share of resources. To address this issue, a social justice campaign called "Uplifting the Voices of Mining Communities" has been launched.
This initiative aims to amplify the voices of communities affected by mining and champion sustainable, inclusive, and eco-friendly extractive practices.
The 24-month project, funded by Comic Relief, will focus on the Mfantseman, Asutifi North, Ahafo Ano South and Talensi districts. ActionAid, a social justice advocacy group, will work hand-in-hand with these communities to enhance their voice, agency and collective power. Through this project, citizens will become more aware of mineral governance, participate actively in decision-making processes, and establish community-based monitoring systems.
The project will also facilitate engaging dialogues between communities, duty bearers, and other stakeholders.
ActionAid's Country Director, John Nkaw, emphasized the project's goals, stating that it will promote awareness, build agency, foster collective action, generate evidence and create platforms for constructive engagement. Additionally, the project will train 80 women and youth representatives in various areas, such as extractive sector governance, climate-resilient livelihoods, advocacy, campaign and artistic activism.
Furthermore, four community-based monitoring committees will be formed, equipping community members and journalists to document environmental, social labor and human rights concerns.
Dr. Steve Manteaw, Co-chair of the Ghana Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative, pointed out some gaps in the mining sector that this project can help address. Communities need access to information about the profits mining companies make and the funds allocated to community development. The project can play a crucial role in empowering communities to demand their fair share of benefits from the extractive industry.
Written by urgent.news from Adom Online's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
