A platform for research: civil engineering, architecture and urbanism
A platform for research: civil engineering, architecture and urbanism
Gendered mining landscapes and health implications in Ghana's artisanal and small-scale gold mining industry
Abstract Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) has expanded rapidly in recent decades, with scholars suggesting increasing feminization of the industry. Based on ethnographic fieldwork in Ghana, we examine gendered dimensions of mining, from state officials' claims that mining is “men's work,” to on-site gendered divisions of labor. We then show how gendered extractive practices combine with the material environment (pits, dust, tunnels, etc.) to expose men and women to different health issues. For instance, pit collapse and related injuries and deaths are predominant among men working in underground spaces. By contrast, women 'shankers' are most vulnerable to dust inhalation and related respiratory diseases. We draw from feminist geography to demonstrate that ASGM-related health conditions are unevenly experienced and shaped by gendered divisions of labor and mining materialities.
Highlights Constructions of gender and mining shape gendered mining spaces and activities. Gendered mining activities portend different health implications for men and women. State officials and policy makers must attend to women’s involvement in ASGM.
Gendered mining landscapes and health implications in Ghana's artisanal and small-scale gold mining industry
Abstract Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) has expanded rapidly in recent decades, with scholars suggesting increasing feminization of the industry. Based on ethnographic fieldwork in Ghana, we examine gendered dimensions of mining, from state officials' claims that mining is “men's work,” to on-site gendered divisions of labor. We then show how gendered extractive practices combine with the material environment (pits, dust, tunnels, etc.) to expose men and women to different health issues. For instance, pit collapse and related injuries and deaths are predominant among men working in underground spaces. By contrast, women 'shankers' are most vulnerable to dust inhalation and related respiratory diseases. We draw from feminist geography to demonstrate that ASGM-related health conditions are unevenly experienced and shaped by gendered divisions of labor and mining materialities.
Highlights Constructions of gender and mining shape gendered mining spaces and activities. Gendered mining activities portend different health implications for men and women. State officials and policy makers must attend to women’s involvement in ASGM.
Gendered mining landscapes and health implications in Ghana's artisanal and small-scale gold mining industry
Adomako, Janet (author) / Hausermann, Heidi (author)
Journal of Rural Studies ; 97 ; 385-394
2022-12-18
10 pages
Article (Journal)
Electronic Resource
English
ASGM , Gender , Health , Feminist geography , Ghana