SOCIAL ACCEPTANCE AS A GUIDELINE FOR PERMITTING QUARRIES IN GHANA: A CASE STUDY OF SEKONDI - TAKORADI METROPOLIS

ABSTRACT The Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis is confronted with the problem of land litigation which is as a result of a number of activities including quarrying. This study set out to examine social acceptance as a guideline for permitting quarries in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis. The study was both explorative and descriptive and aimed at going beyond existing information and delved into the unknown and brought to the fore what indeed the problem was and possibly identifies the causes and how they could be addressed. It covered 100 respondents selected through simple random sampling, systematic sampling and purposive sampling techniques. The main data collection techniques were in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. The data were processed using the Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 16. It was revealed from the study that though granite, the main resource for quarrying was found on the land belonging to the communities, they were not consulted in the process of granting permits to prospective proponents. Also, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) delayed the process for acquiring the environmental permit through the completion of the application form. It was recommended that traditional leaders (chiefs) and land owners should be adequately informed on quarry processes, the EPA should get a desk officer to help prospective proponents complete their application form, the Minerals Commission should educate proponents on the payment of royalties and the Assembly should adequately inform the communities on issues concerning notices published on quarry operations within the locality to promote social acceptance.