Revisiting Child Labour in the Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mines of Ghana; Assessing Local Perceptions and Attitudes towards Child Labour and Education in Nangodi, Ghana

Abstract

Several studies have looked into the issue of child labour especially in the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector in Ghana. However, a key issue that such studies have failed to cover relates to local perceptions and attitudes towards child labour in ASM. This paper fills that gap in knowledge. Using a case study approach, the paper assesses local perceptions and attitudes towards child labour and education in Nangodi. It goes further to highlight how children had their education affected as a result of working at mining pits. In light of the findings presented, viable recommendations are offered in order to reduce, if not curb the practice of child labour in ASM.

Keywords: Artisanal and small-scale mining; child labour; child education; ‘galamsey’.