Impact of Galamsey Operations on Agricultural Land and Livelihood of Farmers: A Case Study of Affiena Community in Wassa Amenfi West District of Western Region, Ghana

Galamsey operations are tremendously undermining the lands and endangering the livelihoods of farmers and as a result, the general aim of the study was to assess the impact of galamsey operations on agricultural lands and livelihoods of farmers in the Affiena community in the Wassa Amenfi West District of the western region. However, relevant literature was used to review the study in relation to its objectives. The snowball sampling technique was used to find hidden farmers who gave out their lands for galamsey operations. Moreover, the study involved 50 farmers who gave out lands and depended on both primary and secondary sources of data. Importantly, structured interview and observation were used to collect data. Furthermore, descriptive statistical tools such as the frequency and percentage distribution tables were used to summarise socio-demographic profile of farmers through the aid of Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) computer software but basically, the data analysis was focused on both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The major findings of the study demonstrated that galamsey operations have resulted in uncovered pits, water pollution, school dropout, inadequate farmlands, and farm labours in the area. With reference to the findings, it was recommended that; first, policymakers should pass favourable agricultural policies to encourage farmers not to give out lands for galamsey operations and also attract adequate farm labours. Second, the government should call for strict reclamation of uncovered mining pits and persecute anyone who mines to pollute water bodies in the area. Last, non-governmental organizations should organize social and environmental sensitization crusades in the area to educate farmers and school dropout children about the need to stay away from galamsey.