THE IMPACT OF ARTISANAL MINING ON AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION AND FOOD SECURITY IN THE BIRIM NORTH DISTRICT OF GHANA

Abstract

Aim of the study Mining operations can negatively impact population’s capacity to obtain nutritious food. This study examines the complicated link between artisanal mining, agricultural production, and food security in the Birim North District of Ghana. Material and methods The study employed questionnaires, focus group discussions (FDGs), and GIS analysis, to understand the thoughts and experiences of people in artisanal mining communities, in order to find out how they understand and think about food security. Results and conclusions The GIS analysis identified Afosu and Ntronang communities with perceived impact of mining on food security, due to the fact that these communities lived in areas adjoining a large-scale mining company. The results from the survey and focus group discussion demonstrated that the studied communities were generally worried about access to food, focusing on reduced farmland and fertile soil. Respondents were also concerned about the range, price, and availability of locally grown crops. These results show how important it is to act quickly and in a wide range of ways to reduce the negative impact of artisanal mining on agricultural output. In this case, it is very important to use sustainable mining methods in the study area and other places like it by giving priority to sustainable land management.