Same project, different responses: Unravelling varied community consent to mining-induced displacement in ghana's lithium sector

Abstract

Why do communities under the same mining project respond differently to resettlement negotiation processes? This paper addresses this puzzle by examining the contrasting responses of two communities to mining-induced displacement and resettlement (MIDR) in Ghana's Ewoyaa Lithium Project. Whilst Ewoyaa's community has demonstrated largely positive consent to relocation, Krampakrom shows significant resistance, despite both communities facing displacement under identical corporate and regulatory frameworks. Employing Hickey's power domains framework, we analyse how varying power dynamics, interests, and ideas across different governance scales shape these divergent institutional outcomes. Through extensive qualitative research, including in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation, the study reveals how context-specific power dynamics and governance arrangements critically influence MIDR outcomes in varied ways. The research demonstrates that while Ewoyaa's virtuous cycle of transparent leadership, consistent community engagement, and deep cultural instruments has successfully built community trust and meaningful participation, Krampakrom's vicious cycle of autocratic leadership, poor communication channels, and coercive tactics has produced profound community alienation and systematic disempowerment. The study makes two significant contributions to the field: firstly, it substantially advances theoretical understanding of how community particularities and mining domain power dynamics interact to shape institutional outcomes; secondly, it provides valuable early insights into how transition mineral governance is fundamentally transforming MIDR negotiations across Sub-Saharan Africa. We argue that successful resettlement negotiations require careful attention to local power dynamics and governance arrangements rather than simply following standardised international protocols. These insights are particularly crucial as the global energy transition drives increased demand for minerals like lithium, potentially affecting more communities across the region.