Paper short abstract:

The paper investigates the inequalities in the mining sector of Ghana and how mineral governance can promote inclusive development. How can women, the physically challenged and the unskilled be included in development?

Paper long abstract:

This paper focuses on mineral governance and how it can contribute to promoting equitable participation by Ghanaians in the mining sector. The paper argues that, the current inequalities in the mining sector of Ghana is a colonial legacy and does not promote human development in Ghana. The study, whilst recognizing the legacies of colonialism, argues that in order for mineral resources to be managed responsibly to promote equality, there should be a paradigm shift to focus on how mineral resources are governed. As a result, the paper, relying on the human centered development approach investigates how mineral resources can be governed to promote inclusive development in Ghana, with specific focus on the mineral wealth Western Region of the country.The Ghanaian society, like any other society has vulnerable and minority members, and the extent to which the various sectors of the economy create opportunities and enabling environment for such people is pertinent in development studies and practice. Due to the finite nature of mineral resources, the paper argues for active participation of stakeholders throughout the mine life cycle and the development of a comprehensive local content policy framework. Although this paper is a case study of mineral governance in Ghana, it can serve as a springboard to appreciate the role mineral governance can play in promoting people centered development in other sub - Saharan mineral wealth countries.