CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.0 Background

Mineral resources have a crucial impact on the economic growth and development of a country.

As noted by the World Bank (2006), these resources provide a potent source of income, job

creation, and infrastructure development. However, the exploitation and processing of these

resources also present significant ecological and societal hazards. The potential for harm to

human health and the environment necessitates cautionary measures, especially in regions where

mining activities are prevalent (Akabzaa, 2001).

Ghana, situated in West Africa, represents a prominent example of a country that has greatly

profited from its mineral resources. As the second largest gold producer in Africa after South

Africa, Ghana accounts for more than 40% of the country's total exports, thereby contributing to

the development of critical infrastructure, including roads, educational institutions, and

healthcare facilities (Ghana Chamber of Mines Fact sheet, 2021). The country was previously

referred to as the "Gold Coast" due to the abundant gold deposits in the southern Obuasi,

Tarkwa, and Prestea regions. After gaining independence in 1957, the nation was renamed

Ghana, and resource extraction remains ongoing, contributing significantly to economic growth

(Akabzaa, 2001). The mining sector in Ghana employs approximately 300,000 individuals and

generates 9.1% of the nation's Gross Domestic Product (Ghana Chamber of Mines Fact sheet,

2021). However, the negative impacts of mining operations in Ghana are becoming increasingly

apparent. Research indicates that only a limited number of communities have seen any benefits

from the contributions made by the mining industry towards ecological development, with the
majority of mining areas experiencing long-lasting negative impacts (Ontoyin & Agyemang,

2014). This issue is particularly pronounced in Datuko found in the Talensi District in Ghana's

Upper East Region, where mining has led to significant environmental degradation and pollution

of air and water, as well as long-term harm to the health of residents in mining communities

(Ontoyin & Agyemang, 2014).

Datuko is characterized by a rapidly growing population composed primarily of ethnic groups

with strong cultural and economic connections to the land. The health status of residents in the

district is influenced by various factors, including access to healthcare services and disease

prevalence (Amanobila et al., 2022).

The study is based on the social ecological framework, which suggests that individual health

outcomes are influenced by the interaction between individual-level factors, such as behavior

and genetics, and environmental factors, such as exposure to pollution and contaminated water.

The framework will be used to guide the design of the study and interpret the results.

Previous studies have found a link between mining activities and various health outcomes,

including respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, and hearing loss. However, these studies

have primarily focused on mining communities in developed countries and may not be directly

applicable to the context in the Datuko (Lewis et al., 2017; Morrice & Colagiuri, 2013). This

study aims to fill this knowledge gap by investigating the specific effects of mining on health in

Datuko and providing information that can inform policies and practices aimed at protecting the

health of residents in mining communities.

1.1 Problem statement

Mining has played an important role in the development of Ghana. Like all industries, mining
has both benefits and risks for the people living in communities where minerals are found. How

these environmental and health impacts are managed by the government, nearby communities

and mining companies can either worsen or improve the lives of community inhabitants. (J

Health Pollut. 2018 ) Although it serves as a source of income for the community, the health

status of the mining communities is also a paramount factor for developmental growth in the

District. However the mining activities can ensue in disease such as Upper Respiratory Tract

Infection, tuberculosis among others which can hinder economic growth in the district and the

nation as a whole. The Diesel Exhaust in Miners Study encompassed more than 12,000 miners.

Results showed a significant increased risk of dying from lung cancer among miners who had

ever worked underground. (NIOSH) The Talensi District is not an exception and analysis of this

study will help identify some health issues caused by the mining activities in the District among

its inhabitants which will alarm the community leaders' involvement with the Government to

devise strategies in order to curtailed the predicament.

1.2 Objectives

1.2.1 General objectives

To identify the effects of mining on the health status among residents in Datuko in the Upper

East Region of Ghana.

1.2.2 Specific objectives

1. To know the health status of mining workers in Datuko in the Talensi District of Ghana.

2. To identify the diseases caused by mining among residents living nearby the mining

communities in Datuko

3. To identify the factors contributing to mining related diseases among residents within the

mining communities.
1.3 Significance of the study

The significance of the study lies in its potential to provide important information on the health

status of residents living in close proximity to mining communities in Datuko located in the

Talensi District in the Upper East region in Ghana. The findings of this study could provide

crucial insight into the diseases caused by mining activities and the factors contributing to these

diseases. This information could serve as a basis for government and community leaders to

devise strategies for mitigating the negative impacts of mining on the health of residents.

Furthermore, the study can raise awareness among stakeholders and decision-makers about the

importance of addressing the health implications of mining and highlight the need for action to

improve the health of mining communities. Overall, the study can contribute to the improvement

of health outcomes and the well-being of residents living in mining communities in Datuko.

1.4 Delimitation of the study

The study will be limited to Datuko in the Talensi District in the Upper East Region of Ghana

and will not include other regions or districts. The study focuses on the residents living in close

proximity to mining communities, and excludes others who do not reside in the area.

1.5 Limitation of the study

The health status of the residents will be self-reported, which may be subject to recall bias or

social desirability bias.

1.6 Definition of terms

1. Health status: Refers to a person's physical and mental well-being.

2. Mining: The extraction of valuable minerals or other geological materials from the earth.

3. Residents: People living in a particular area or community.

4. Talensi District: A district located in the Upper East Region of Ghana.

 5. Upper East Region: A region located in northern Ghana.

6. Diseases: A disorder or abnormal condition that impairs the normal functioning of the

body or mind.

7. Mining communities: Communities where mining activities take place.

8. Inhabitants: People who live in a particular place or area.

9. Government: The political authority that governs a country or state.

10. Community leaders: People who lead and represent the community.

1.7 Organization of chapters

The study will be based on five chapters according to the guidelines from the College of Health,

Yamfo and they are as follows:

1. Introduction: This chapter will provide an overview of the research topic, background

information, the problem statement, research objectives, and research questions.

2. Literature Review: This chapter will provide a comprehensive review of the existing

literature relevant to the research topic, including previous studies, theories, and models.

3. Methodology: This chapter will describe the research design, data collection methods,

sample selection, data analysis procedures, and ethical considerations.

4. Results: This chapter will present the findings of the study, including descriptive

statistics, inferential statistics, and any other relevant data analysis results.

5. Discussion: This chapter will provide an interpretation of the results, including a

discussion of the implications of the findings, the limitations of the study, and

recommendations for future research.

 CHAPTER THREE

METHODOLOGY

3.0 Introduction

The methodology chapter is a crucial component of the research study as it provides a detailed

description of the research design, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques that will

be used to investigate the research problem and meet the objectives of the study. In this chapter,

the researcher will present a comprehensive overview of the research methodology, including the

research design, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques. This will enable the

reader to understand the research process, the tools and techniques used to collect and analyze

the data, and the validity and reliability of the results obtained.

3.1 Research Design

The study will use a descriptive cross-sectional design This design would allow for the collection

of data on the current health status of mining workers and residents living nearby the mining

communities in Datuko. It would also allow for the identification of diseases caused by mining

and the factors contributing to these diseases. By using a cross-sectional design, it will provide a

snapshot of the current situation and allow for the comparison of data between mining workers

and residents in the mining communities.

3.2 Study population

The population would be the residents in Datuko in the Talensi District who are affected by

mining activities. It will therefore include mining workers, as well as residents living near

mining communities.
3.3 inclusion criteria

For this study on the effects of mining on the health status among residents in the Talensi District

in the Upper East Region of Ghana, the inclusion criteria could be:

1. Residents living within the vicinity of mining communities in Datuko

2. Adults aged 18 years and above

3. Willingness to participate in the study

3.4 Exclusion criteria

1. Participants who do not reside within the vicinity of Datuko mining community

2. Participants who are below the age of 18 years

3. Participants who are unwilling to participate in the study.

3.5 study Area

The Datuko mining community, located in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region of

Ghana, The mining site is approximately 0.5 kilometers away. There are two main dialects

spoken, Taleni and Nabit (Ontoyin & Agyemang, 2014).

Datuko is a community that has been impacted by mining activities. Mining has been a

significant source of employment and economic activity in this area, but it has also raised

concerns about its effects on the health and well-being of local residents.

The study area encompasses the mining community of Datuko and its surrounding areas,

including the towns and villages where residents live and work. The area is characterized by a

mix of rural and urban areas, with the majority (90%) of residents engaged in agriculture and

mining activities(Ontoyin & Agyemang, 2014).

The mining industry in Datuko has a long history, with gold and diamond mining being the main

activities in the area. The mining operations in the area are carried out by both small-scale and
large-scale mining companies. The small-scale mining sector is dominated by artisanal and

small-scale miners, who extract minerals using simple hand tools and often work in informal and

unregulated environments. The large-scale mining sector, on the other hand, is dominated by

multinational corporations that use modern equipment and advanced techniques to extract

minerals.

The population of the Datuko mining community is diverse and includes both migrant and local

residents. The majority of the population is made up of young people, with a significant

proportion being children and women. The community is characterized by poverty, poor

infrastructure, and limited access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and safe

drinking water (Ontoyin & Agyemang, 2014).

In conclusion, the Datuko mining community is an area with a rich history of mining and a

vibrant, diverse population. The community is facing numerous challenges, including poverty,

poor infrastructure, and limited access to basic services, and these challenges are compounded by

the effects of mining on the health and well-being of local residents. A comprehensive study of

the Datuko mining community is needed to better understand the impact of mining on the health

and well-being of the local residents, and to identify strategies for mitigating these effects and

improving the quality of life for the people of the community.

3.6 Sample size determination

The Cochran formula was used for determining sample size in cross-sectional studies. The

formula is as follows:

n = (Z^2 * P * (1-P)) / d^2

where:

n = sample size
Z = the standard normal deviate corresponding to the desired level of confidence (e.g., 1.96 for

95% confidence)

P = the estimated prevalence of the outcome of interest (or (1-P) for the outcome of interest not

being present)

d = the desired level of precision (e.g., 0.05 for 5%)

In this study, the objective is to identify the effects of mining on the health status among

residents in Datuko in the Upper East Region of Ghana. The estimated prevalence of the

outcome of interest (the health effects of mining) is unknown, so a conservative estimate of 50%

can be used.

Assuming a confidence level of 95% (Z = 1.96) and a desired level of precision of 5% (d = 0.05),

the sample size can be calculated as follows:

n = (1.96^2 * 0.5 * (1-0.5)) / (0.05^2)

n = 384

So, the sample size for this study would be approximately 384 participants.

3.7 Sampling technique

The sampling technique used for the study is "convenient sampling." Convenient sampling is a

type of non-probability sampling where participants are selected based on their availability and

willingness to participate in the study. This technique is often used when the target population is

difficult to access or when the study is being conducted on a limited budget or with limited time.

In a convenient sample, participants are typically selected based on their proximity to the

researcher or their availability to participate at the time of the study. For example, participants in

the Datuko mining community might be selected based on their willingness to participate in the

study and their proximity to the study location.

3.8 Data collection tool

In the study of the effects of mining on the health status of residents in the Datuko mining

community, a self-administered questionnaire will be the data collection tool to be used. A

questionnaire allows for the collection of a large amount of data in a relatively short period of

time and can be administered to a large number of participants.

The questionnaire will be designed to collect information on the variables of interest in the study,

including demographic information, health status, and exposure to mining. The questions will be

clearly worded and easy to understand, and the questionnaire will be tested with a small group of

participants to identify any issues with the wording or format of the questions.

3.9 Data collection procedure

For the study of the effects of mining on the health status of residents in the Datuko mining

community, the following data collection procedure will be followed:

1. Recruitment of Participants: Participants will be recruited through convenient sampling.

This involves identifying individuals who live near the mining sites in Datuko and who

are willing to participate in the study. Participants will be informed about the study,

including the purpose, duration, and any risks or benefits involved.

2. Administration of the Questionnaire: Participants will be given a self-administered

questionnaire to complete. The questionnaire will be designed to collect information on

the health status of the participants, their exposure to mining, and any other relevant

demographic information. Participants will be instructed on how to complete the

questionnaire and will be given adequate time to do so.

 3. Data Collection and Management: Completed questionnaires will be collected from the

participants and stored securely. The data will be entered into a spreadsheet or database

and checked for errors or inconsistencies.

4. Quality Control: Throughout the data collection process, steps will be taken to ensure the

quality and accuracy of the data collected. For example, the questionnaire will be pre-

tested, and the data will be checked for errors or inconsistencies.

3.10 Data Analysis

After collection the data will be analyzed using different statistical techniques. However, the

STATA IC will be used for all the techniques. The techniques are as follows.

Firstly, To know the health status of mining workers, the frequency of reported health

conditions and symptoms will be calculated. This information will be presented in a table or

graph to show the proportion of participants reporting different health conditions or symptoms.

Additionally, bivariate analysis (e.g. chi-squared test or logistic regression) will be used to

examine the relationship between the health status of participants and their exposure to mining.

Secondly, To identify the diseases caused by mining, the frequency of reported diseases will be

calculated. This information will also be presented in a table or graph. Bivariate analysis (e.g.

chi-squared test or logistic regression) will be used to examine the relationship between the

presence of diseases and exposure to mining.

Finally, To identify the factors contributing to mining-related diseases, multiple regression

analysis will be used. This statistical technique allows the examination of the relationship

between multiple independent variables (e.g. age, gender, occupation, education level) and a

dependent variable (e.g. presence of mining-related diseases).

3.11 Ethical consideration

The ethical considerations in the study of the effects of mining on the health status of residents in

the Datuko mining community in Ghana include:

Informed consent: the researcher will make sure that the participants will know how long the

study will take, they will also be informed that there are no risks involved and that the study

could benefit them in the future if this study is used by stakeholders.

Confidentiality and anonymity: Participants' personal and sensitive information will be kept

confidential and anonymous. The collected data will be stored securely and access to the data

will be limited to the researcher and supervisor.

Justice: The study will be fair and equitable. It will not discriminate against any group of people.

Participants will be selected for the study based on relevant criteria (thus living near the mining

sites), and not based on personal characteristics (e.g. race, gender).

 REFERENCES

Akabzaa, T. (2001). IMPACT OF MINING SECTOR INVESTMENT IN GHANA: A STUDY OF

THE TARKWA MINING REGION.

Amanobila, R. A., Yidana, A., & Aninanya, G. A. (2022). Knowledge, attitude and uptake of

tuberculosis screening services among gold miners in the Datuko sub-district in the

Talensi District Ghana. Annals of Medical Laboratory Science, 2(2), 31–44.

Ghana Chamber of Mines Fact sheet. (2021). THE GHANA CHAMBER OF MINES FACT

SHEET.

Lewis, J., Hoover, J., & MacKenzie, D. (2017). Mining and Environmental Health Disparities in

Native American Communities. Current Environmental Health Reports, 4(2), 130–141.

https://doi.org/10.1007/s40572-017-0140-5

Morrice, E., & Colagiuri, R. (2013). Coal mining, social injustice and health: A universal

conflict of power and priorities. Health & Place, 19, 74–79.

Ontoyin, J., & Agyemang, I. (2014). Environmental and rural livelihoods implications of small-

scale gold mining in Talensi-Nabdam Districts in Northern Ghana. Journal of Geography

and Regional Planning, 7(8), 150–159.

World Bank. (2006). Mongolia: A review of environmental and social impacts in the mining

sector. In Environment and Social Development Unit (EASES) of the East Asia and

Pacific Region. The World Bank Washington, DC.

 APPENDIX

Questionnaire for respondents

Dear Respondent,

My name is Asare Richard, and I am a student at the College of Health in Yamfo. I am

conducting a research study as part of my academic requirements on the effects of mining on the

health status of residents in the Datuko mining community in Ghana.

The purpose of this study is to identify the effects of mining on the health status of residents in

Datuko in the Upper East Region of Ghana, as well as to understand the health status of mining

workers in the Talensi District and to identify the diseases caused by mining among residents

living near the mining communities.

As a part of this study, I would like to ask for your help in completing a brief questionnaire.

Your participation in this study is completely voluntary, and you may choose to decline or

withdraw from the study at any time without penalty.

The information that you provide will be used solely for academic purposes and will be kept

confidential and anonymous. The questionnaire should take no more than 10 minutes to

complete, and your responses will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Sincerely,

Asare Richard
 SECTION A

The purpose of this section is to know you. Be rest assured that no one will know the person who

answered this questionnaire. Please tick [✔] to choose the answer.

1. What is your age? _______________________

2. What is your gender? male [ ] Female [ ]

3. What is your marital status? Single [ ] Married [ ] Divorced [ ]

4. What is your highest level of education? No education [ ] Primary [ ] JHS[ ] SHS [ ]

Tertiary [ ]

5. What is your current occupation? ___________________________

6. What is your current employment status? Employed [ ] Unemployed [ ]

7. What is your monthly income? _________________________

8. What is the size of your household? ________________________

9. How many people in your household are employed?____________________

10. What is your current residential status (i.e. owner, renter, etc.)? Owner [ ] renter [ ]

Family member [ ]

SECTION B

This section will help us determine your health status.Please tick [✔] to choose the answer.

1. Have you or anyone in your household worked in the mining industry? Yes [] No []

2. How long have you lived near the mining site in Datuko? __________________

3. In your opinion, has the presence of mining affected your health in any way? Yes [] No []

4. Have you noticed any changes in air or water quality since the mining started in Datuko?

Yes [] No []
 5. Have you or anyone in your household experienced any respiratory problems or

illnesses? Yes [] No []

6. Have you or anyone in your household been diagnosed with any skin conditions or

illnesses? Yes [] No[]

7. Have you or anyone in your household experienced any hearing problems or illnesses?

Yes [] No []

8. Have you or anyone in your household been diagnosed with any neurological conditions

or illnesses? Yes [] No []

9. Have you noticed any changes in the health status of the community since the mining

started in Datuko? Yes [] No[]

10. Have you or anyone in your household sought medical attention for any health conditions

related to the mining in Datuko? Yes [] No []

SECTION C

This section will help us to understand the health status of mining workers in the Talensi District.

Please tick [✔] to choose the answer.

1. Are you currently employed in the mining industry in Datuko? Yes [] No[]

2. How long have you been working in the mining industry in Datuko?________________

3. What type of work do you do in the mining industry? ________________________

4. Have you noticed any changes in your health since you started working in the mining

industry? Yes [] No[]

5. Have you experienced any respiratory problems or illnesses while working in the mining

industry? Yes [] No[]

 6. Have you been diagnosed with any skin conditions or illnesses while working in the

mining industry? Yes [] No[]

7. Have you experienced any hearing problems or illnesses while working in the mining

industry? Yes [] No[]

8. Have you been diagnosed with any neurological conditions or illnesses while working in

the mining industry? Yes [] No[]

9. Have you sought medical attention for any health conditions related to your work in the

mining industry? Yes [] No[]

10. Are you aware of any health and safety measures provided by your employer for workers

in the mining industry? Yes [] No[]

SECTION D

This section will help us to identify the diseases caused by mining among residents living near

the mining communities. Please tick [✔] to choose the answer.

1. Have you or anyone in your household been diagnosed with any diseases or illnesses

since the mining started in Datuko? Yes [] No[]

2. Do you think the mining in Datuko has had any impact on the incidence of disease in the

community? Yes [] No[]

3. Have you or anyone in your household been diagnosed with any respiratory illnesses

since the mining started in Datuko? Yes [] No[]

4. Have you or anyone in your household been diagnosed with any skin conditions or

illnesses since the mining started in Datuko? Yes [] No[]

5. Have you or anyone in your household experienced any hearing problems or illnesses

since the mining started in Datuko? Yes [] No[]

6. Have you or anyone in your household been diagnosed with any neurological conditions

or illnesses since the mining started in Datuko? Yes [] No[]

7. Have you or anyone in your household sought medical attention for any health conditions

related to the mining in Datuko? Yes [] No[]

8. Are you aware of any reported cases of disease or illness in the community that may be

related to the mining in Datuko? Yes [] No[]

9. Have you noticed any changes in the health status of the community since the mining

started in Datuko? Yes [] No[]

10. Do you think there is a need for more research on the impact of mining on health in the

Datuko community? Yes [] No[]

 RESEARCH SCHEDULE

February 10: Proposal defense

● Prepare final proposal and submit to the defense committee

● Meet with the defense committee to present and defend the proposal

● Receive feedback and make any necessary revisions to the proposal

March 1 - April 30: Data collection

● Develop and pretest the questionnaire

● Recruit participants and obtain informed consent

● Administer the questionnaire to the participants

● Collect and manage the data

May 1 - June 30: Data analysis

● Clean and prepare the data for analysis

● Conduct descriptive and inferential statistics to analyze the data

● Write up results and interpretation of the findings

July 1 - August 30: Work completion

● Write the final report, including the introduction, methodology, results, discussion,

conclusions, and recommendations

● Revise and edit the final report

● Prepare the final presentation

September 30: Project submission

● Submit the final report and presentation to the department head

● Prepare for final presentation and defense

● Complete any final revisions or corrections based on feedback received.