Early last week (1st-2nd October, 2024), FOSDA and WACCE participated in the 4th edition of the West Africa Mining Security Conference (WAMS). An event hosted by the Australian High Commission in Ghana in partnership with the Australia-Africa Minerals and Energy Group (AAMEG) and MS Risk Limited, with sponsorship from various mining companies. The conference brought together Mining companies, civil society organizations, academics, security practitioners, subject matter experts, and mining industry representatives to assess regional security trends occasioned by mining and operational challenges. It provides a valuable platform for mine management and security professionals to share insights on risk assessments and best practices in risk mitigation strategies.
FOSDA’s Executive Director, Theodora Williams Anti, along with Mutaru Muqthar Mumuni, Executive Director of the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism (WACCE), presented findings on the ongoing M4P. The M4P project aims to build resilience and enhance capacity in mining communities affected by economic disparities and the environmental impacts of artisanal small-scale mining (ASM) which drives insecurities.
Key findings from the M4P baseline survey revealed;
• Low awareness of violent extremism—fewer than 1% had heard of it, which presents a significant concern.
• High unemployment and poverty in mining communities making them vulnerable to conflict drivers, including land disputes, community resettlement issues, and mining companies’ reluctance to employ the local workforce.
• However, the survey also showed strong interest in alternative income-generating activities outside of mining, with 98% of respondents believing that the youth are eager to be trained in new skills. Particularly high interest was shown in fields such as driving, tailoring, fabrication or welding, hairdressing, and soap making, despite the lure of artisanal small-scale mining’s profitability.
The M4P baseline study emphasized that training opportunities for the local workforce have not been widely available, highlighting the need for scaling up these efforts. The findings also stressed that Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policies of mining companies have yet to adequately benefit local communities. Additionally, there are no established conflict resolution mechanisms, and participation in decision-making processes remains limited. Recommendations from the research include increasing police presence in affected communities and fostering dialogue between mining companies and local populations. Most importantly, innovative job creation and training programs are essential, especially for young people, to help them transition into safer and more sustainable alternatives to illegal mining.