Transitioning from Vulnerability to Viability: Fisher community responses to illegal gold mining impacts on small-scale fisheries along the Ankobra river, Ghana

Abstract

Small-scale fisheries in Ghana’s Ankobra River basin are increasingly threatened by the expansion of illegal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM), resulting in environmental degradation, declining fish stocks, and reduced livelihood resilience. This thesis investigates the socio-ecological impacts of ASGM on fishing communities in Ajomoro Eshiem, Eziome, and Sanwoma, using a convergent mixed-methods approach grounded in the Social-Ecological Systems (SES) frameworks. The research aims to (a) Explore the nature of ASGM activities and the key characteristics of the small-scale fishery industry in the Ankobra basin, (b) Assess the socio-economic and ecological well-being of small-scale fisheries due to the impact of ASGM on livelihoods, (c) Investigate the adaptive strategies adopted by fishing communities in response to ASGM-related disruptions. Quantitative survey data, along with qualitative interviews and focus groups, were integrated to provide a comprehensive understanding of household expenditures, changes in fish catch, access to support services, compensation mechanisms, and the inclusion of women and marginalized groups in decision-making. Findings reveal that ASGM has led to substantial declines in fish catch, increased household expenditures to mitigate health and environmental impacts, and widespread dissatisfaction with compensation and support services. Women and marginalized groups remain largely excluded from local governance processes, further weakening community resilience. While some fishers employ livelihood diversification and collective action to cope, these strategies are constrained by limited institutional support and infrastructural deficits. This research highlights the urgent need for inclusive governance, targeted capacity building, and sustainable alternative livelihood programs to enhance resilience and ensure the long-term viability of fisheries-dependent communities. It contributes to the understanding of how mixed-methods and socio-ecological systems based analysis can inform policy and practice in mining-impacted regions. Further studies can support viable transition pathways for affected communities. Keywords: small-scale fisheries, illegal gold mining, livelihood resilience, social-ecological systems, adaptive capacity