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GCERF invests $3m to counter mining-related radicalisation in Ghana
•2 min read•1 source
The Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF) has committed $3 million to strengthen community resilience against radicalisation and instability linked to artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) in Ghana. Announced during a two-day meeting in Accra, this investment aims to address the socio-economic vulnerabilities that often lead to insecurity in mining districts. The initiative seeks to prevent violent extremism by fostering inclusive development and ensuring that mining activities contribute positively to local communities.
Maria Alessi Polidoro, the Regional Manager for GCERF, detailed that the fund will partner with 11 civil society organisations (CSOs) to execute the resilience drive. These partnerships are designed to promote dialogue between stakeholders and expand economic opportunities for vulnerable groups, such as youth and women, who are most at risk of exploitation or radicalisation. By integrating mining-related activities into broader community decision-making processes, the programme aims to establish responsible business practices that safeguard local stability.
The funding comes at a critical time as West Africa faces increasing pressures from regional instability and the complexities of unregulated mining sectors. By focusing on inclusive livelihoods and strategic partnerships, the GCERF initiative intends to create a sustainable model for development that mitigates the risk of conflict. This new approach underscores the importance of community-led solutions in maintaining national security and fostering long-term economic growth within Ghana’s mineral-rich regions.
