Traditional religion and the fight against illegal mining in Ghana -A case study of Amenfi East Municipality

Abstract

The study explored the role of traditional religion in curbing illegal mining in the Amenfi East Municipality of Ghana. Illegal mining poses significant environmental, social, and economic threats across many parts of Ghana. While various governmental policies have attempted to regulate and eliminate the practice, enforcement remains inconsistent and often ineffective. The study adopted a qualitative approach to examine how traditional religious norms, beliefs, and leadership structures influence community responses to illegal mining. Using semi-structured interviews with 25 participants, including chiefs, elders, traditional priests, and assembly members, the study investigated the types of traditional norms observed in the municipality, the ways these norms deter illegal mining, and the potential for collaboration between traditional authorities and the Municipal Assembly. Aside demographic data which were analysed using frequency counts and simple percentages, Data relative to the research questions were thematically analyzed, and findings were categorized under four themes for each research question. The study revealed that traditional norms such as sacred forests, river taboos, prohibition days, and ancestral beliefs are still widely respected and serve as informal yet powerful tools for regulating land use and deterring environmentally destructive practices. Fear of spiritual sanctions, including illness and misfortune, continues to discourage mining in spiritually significant areas. Traditional justice systems, which emphasize restitution and public accountability, further reinforce compliance. However, the study also finds a disconnect between traditional and formal governance structures, with traditional leaders often excluded from official environmental policymaking and lacking the resources needed to enforce cultural regulations. The study concluded that traditional religion offers a culturally embedded and community-trusted framework for environmental governance. To enhance its impact, the study recommends formal recognition of traditional norms in local bylaws, capacity building for traditional leaders, logistical support for ritual and monitoring activities, and stronger collaboration with municipal authorities. These steps can help create a more integrated and effective approach to addressing illegal mining in Ghana.