At Friends of the Nation (FoN), we believe that communities affected by mining must be empowered with knowledge and skills to engage effectively with mining companies and decision-makers. Mining often comes with promises of development, but it also brings challenges such as land loss, displacement, and the destruction of livelihoods. For communities to benefit rather than suffer, they must be fully aware of their rights and the legal frameworks that govern compensation.
Building Knowledge of Legal Frameworks
FoN supports communities in mining areas to gain in-depth understanding of the processes that lead to fair and adequate compensation, as outlined in Legislative Instrument (LI) 2175 of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703). We train community members, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders on the key provisions in the parent Act and its accompanying LIs. This legal literacy ensures that communities are not left behind or misinformed when compensation issues arise.
Exchange Learning and Peer Sharing
Beyond training, FoN organizes exchange learning and sharing visits where communities that are newly exposed to mining activities can learn directly from others already experiencing mining. These peer-to-peer sessions allow participants to hear real stories, both the opportunities and the challenges, so they are better prepared to make informed decisions for their own communities.
Strengthening Leadership and Collective Voices
FoN works closely with community leaders, traditional authorities, local government officials, women, and youth groups to build their capacity for informed decision-making. We recognize that fair compensation negotiations require collective strength, inclusion, and foresight. Special emphasis is placed on ensuring that women and youth, often the most vulnerable to the impacts of mining, have a voice in shaping the future of their communities.
Supporting Fair and Future-Smart Negotiations
When it comes to crop, land, and structures negotiations and compensations, FoN provides technical guidance to leaders and community representatives. Our goal is to ensure that people understand not only the immediate financial implications but also the long-term social, cultural, and environmental consequences of their choices. By equipping communities with this foresight, we help them secure deals that protect livelihoods today while safeguarding opportunities for future generations.
Our Commitment
FoN’s approach is grounded in transparency, participation, and fairness. We remain committed to walking alongside mining-affected communities, ensuring that they are not sidelined but instead become informed actors who can negotiate confidently for their rights and wellbeing.
Call to Action
Mining is reshaping communities across Ghana. With the right support, those communities can make decisions that protect their people, their land, and their future. Join us in this mission. You can partner with us, amplify our advocacy, or contribute resources to strengthen our work with mining-affected communities.
👉 Support Friends of the Nation today, together, we can ensure that mining brings true development, not displacement.