As part of their preparations for World Environment Day on June 5, 2024, students from the Department of Environmental Science at KNUST embarked on an insightful field trip to Obuasi on May 29, 2024. The trip focused on studying land reclamation efforts undertaken by AngloGold Ashanti AngloGold Ashanti and Obuasi Gold MinesObuasi Gold Mines, providing the students with a practical understanding of environmental restoration initiatives.
The students visited two primary reclamation sites—Site A and Site B—and engaged in discussions with Ing. Kwadwo Addo, a representative from Obuasi Gold Mine, to learn about the ongoing projects aimed at rehabilitating lands devastated by illegal mining activities (galamsey).
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| Students at the Nursery Site |
Site A: Reviving a Devastated Land
At Site A, students were guided by Ing. Kwadwo Addo to a local farm owned by Rev. Fr. Emmanuel, which had been severely degraded by illegal mining. Despite not being responsible for the initial damage, Obuasi Gold Mines took on the task of reclaiming the 27-acre site. Initially planted with coconut trees, the project has now shifted to oil palms due to their resilience and ability to thrive in degraded conditions. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 15 (Life on Land), 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and 13 (Climate Action).
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| Students with AngloGold Ashanti Rep Ing. Kwadwo Addo and Caretaker |
The reclamation project follows a 10-year development plan by AngloGold Ashanti in partnership with Solidaridad, aiming to benefit farmers, the local community, Obuasi Gold Mines, and the nation at large. By planting oil palm trees, the project seeks to restore the land and mitigate climate change. Local farmers are employed to plant and maintain the trees, creating economic opportunities and fostering a stable community. The project, a collaborative effort with the local government and the Department of Agriculture, also provides training and support to the farmers involved.
Site B: Climate Resilient Oil Palm Reclamation Project
At Site B, Obuasi Gold Mines distributes high-yielding Tenera variety oil palm seedlings to farmers through a cooperative structure. Farmers pay for the seedlings after harvest, ensuring their investment in the project's success. This cooperative system manages seedling distribution and payment collection, with local operators receiving a maintenance fee to care for the seedlings until planting. However, the lack of a permanent presence at Site B has raised concerns about seedling theft.
The field trip provided invaluable insights into the innovative land reclamation efforts of Obuasi Gold Mines using oil palm plantations. This approach offers a promising model for addressing land degradation while creating economic opportunities for local communities. Nonetheless, certain issues, such as soil quality and seedling security, need to be addressed to ensure the long-term success of these projects.
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| Group Photo with the Rep |
Insights and Recommendations
The field trip provided the students with valuable insights into the efforts and complexities involved in land reclamation using oil palm plantations. The projects demonstrate a promising model for addressing land degradation while simultaneously creating economic opportunities for local communities. However, the students identified several areas for improvement to enhance the long-term success of these initiatives including:
<> Soil Quality Assessment
- A follow-up investigation to assess the soil quality at Site A is recommended to ensure it is suitable for oil palm cultivation. Proper soil health is crucial for the sustainability of the reclamation project.
<> Effectiveness of Oil Palm Plantations
- Further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of oil palm plantations in land reclamation in Ghana. This research should focus on soil health, biodiversity, climate resilience, and socio-economic benefits to ensure that oil palms contribute positively to sustainable development.
<> Seedling Security
- Collaborating with Obuasi Gold Mines to incorporate best practices for seedling security at future project sites is essential to prevent theft and ensure the sustainability of the projects.
The field trip to Obuasi by KNUST’s Environmental Science students underscored the significant efforts and challenges in reclaiming lands degraded by illegal mining. The reclamation projects led by AngloGold Ashanti and Obuasi Gold Mines show potential for positive environmental and economic impacts, but also highlight the need for ongoing attention to soil quality and security measures. As World Environment Day approaches, these insights remind us of the importance of sustainable practices and community involvement in environmental restoration.
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