IMPACT OF TRANS-NATIONAL OIL CORPORATIONS
REPORT TEMPLATE TO
DOCUMENT THE IMPACTS OF TRANS-NATIONAL OIL CORPORATION ON
IDENTIFIED FRONTLINE COMMUNITIES ACROSS AFRICA.
SPECIAL REPORT FORMAT:
|
Contact Person: |
Labram M. Musah |
|
Reporting Organization: |
Vision for Alternative Development |
|
Country: |
Ghana |
|
Contact Details (Email Address and Phone
number): |
+233 243 211 854 |
|
COMMUNITY DETAILS (Geography and Local Economy):
Shama District, established in December
2007, is a vibrant community located in the Western Region of Ghana. It was
carved out of the former Shama Ahanta East Metropolis (SAEM) and officially
inaugurated in March 2008, with its district capital situated in the town of
Shama.Geographically, the district is surrounded by various neighbouring
regions. To the west lies the bustling Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, a major
industrial and commercial hub in the region. On the eastern side, the
district shares its border with the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem District in
the Central Region. Towards the north, it is bordered by the Mpohor Wassa
East District, while the south is embraced by the azure waters of the Gulf of
Guinea. The district covers an area of approximately 193.7 square kilometers,
accommodating a total of 67 settlements. The topography of Shama District is
characterized by low-lying areas, with most parts having an elevation of less
than 80 meters above sea level. The landscape, though generally undulating,
maintains an average height of around 70 meters. The highest points within
the district can be found between 150 and 200 meters above sea level. As for the local economy, agriculture is the
primary economic activity in Shama District. The coastal areas of the
district are predominantly engaged in fishing and fish trading, contributing
significantly to the local economy. The inland regions, on the other hand,
focus on crop production. However, the agricultural sector is experiencing
slow growth. The population of Shama District, as
recorded in the 2021 Population and Housing Census, stood at 88,314
individuals, representing approximately 3.4 % of the total population of the
Western Region. The gender distribution within the district is relatively balanced,
with males comprising 49.1 % and females making up 50.9 % of the population. Most
of the population, accounting for 58 %, resides in rural areas. In terms of employment, the private informal
sector, primarily fishing, serves as the largest employer in the district,
providing jobs for 86.5 % of the population. Following closely is the private
formal sector, employing 6.3 % of the district's residents, and the rest is
attributed to the government and private sector. Overall, Shama District is a coastal community with a strong
agricultural presence and a significant reliance on the fishing industry. Its
location, surrounded by neighbouring districts and a vibrant metropolis,
contributes to its cultural diversity and economic potential. |
|
|
Name of Community |
Shama |
|
Name of the TNO-C |
Tullow (an America company), ENI Oil (Italy) and Kosmos
Energy |
|
Brief Description
of the Community (Social, and Environmental Analysis): The Shama community constitutive the Fantes, which form the majority
tribe in the district, making up approximately 75 % of the population. They
are followed by the Ewes and people from Northern Ghana, constituting 10 %
and 5 % of the population, respectively. The remaining 10 % comprises various
smaller tribes. This diversity contributes to a rich cultural tapestry within
the district. When it comes to healthcare, Shama District
faces some challenges. Although there are three private hospitals, one
clinic, two health centers, and two Community-Based Health and Planning Services
compounds, these facilities are not adequate to meet the healthcare needs of
the community. The limited number of healthcare institutions presents a
barrier to accessing quality healthcare services, requiring residents to
travel outside the district for specialized medical attention. Access to water in the Shama community is a
critical concern. The main water sources in the district include the sea,
pipe-borne water, boreholes, and hand-dug wells. However, many rural
communities still lack access to potable water. They rely heavily on
rainwater, streams, and rivers, which are often polluted due to mining
activities. The analysis of water facility distribution reveals that the
supply of safe water in the Shama District is inadequate, as coverage under
all Ghana Water Company systems is less than 30 %. This scarcity of clean
water poses challenges to the health and well-being of the community, as
individuals are forced to rely on potentially contaminated water sources. Solid waste management is another
significant concern in the district. The most common method of disposal is
through public dumping in open spaces, accounting for 58.2 % of waste
disposal. Additionally, about four % of households dispose of their solid
waste indiscriminately. Only one % of households benefit from house-to-house
waste collection services. These practices can lead to environmental
pollution and health hazards if not properly addressed. Regarding liquid
waste disposal, households rely on throwing waste onto their compounds and
into gutters, both accounting for 30 % of the disposal methods. These
practices contribute to the pollution of the local environment and pose
potential health risks, especially when waste contaminates water sources. Fishing migration is a prevalent practice in
the Shama community. Due to the availability of fish or the need to raise
funds to repay debts, individuals and sometimes entire families migrate to
other coastal areas in Ghana or neighbouring countries within the sub-region.
These fishing migrations can last from two months to two years, or even
longer, depending on the destination and market. Fishmongers work in these
locations to earn money, which they then remit back home and use to pay off
their debts. This migration pattern highlights the economic strategies
employed by the community and its dependence on the fishing industry. In terms of education, while there are
educational institutions within the community, the infrastructure of basic
schools, primary schools, and junior high schools is inadequate for
optimizing studying and learning. Insufficient infrastructure can hinder
students' educational experiences and limit their potential for academic
achievement. Overall, the social and environmental analysis of the Shama community
highlights the need for improvements in healthcare infrastructure, waste
management systems, educational facilities, and access to clean water.
Addressing these issues would contribute to the well-being and sustainable
development of the community, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future
for its residents. |
|
|
Rationale/Justification
for Choosing the Community |
Proximity to the
Jubilee Field: Shama is located along the shoreline and is near the offshore
Jubilee oil field, where significant oil extraction and production activities
are taking place. This geographical proximity makes Shama a frontline
community directly affected by the operations of transnational oil companies.
Studying the impacts in this community can provide valuable insights into the
immediate and localized effects of oil activities. Reports of Impact
of the TNO-C on Livelihoods: The inhabitants of Shama heavily rely on fishing
as their primary livelihood. Several studies and reports have revealed that
the activities of transnational oil companies have negatively impacted the
fishing industry, which has been the backbone of the local economy for
generations. Some of these impacts include foreign vessels destroying nets,
boats, and canoes with no compensation, destruction of the aquatic
environment leading to a reduced population of fish in the sea, and other
activities that have led to fish stocks moving away from Ghana’s territorial
waters which have affected the local fishing industry. These have affected
the community economically their ability to pay their children’s school fees
and meet other social responsibilities. Understanding the specific impacts of
these activities can shed light on the broader consequences of oil extraction
on coastal communities. The Community’s Neglected Voice for Advocacy Actions:
Studies conducted into the impact of the oil companies activities on the
shoreline communities have shown that the communities have made calls for
immediate intervention to improve their situation and way of life but have fallen
on deaf ears. One of these studies, titled “Community perspectives on the
impacts of oil and gas activities in Ghana: has highlight most of the
negative impacts the oil and gas companies’ activities have had on the lives
of the shoreline communities[1]
Some of the communities have had some
of their voices heard and issues addressed through projects like Engaging communities
in a just transition which brought about the construction and renovation of
health facilities and infrastructures, healthcare services, provision of
vehicles to increase healthcare services in communities with poor road networks,
and alternative livelihood for affected communities[2]
but over the years Shama has been left out of the conversation. They were
promised better educational facilities, healthcare, protective gadget, and
supplies in case of oil spillage or leaks[3],
machinery to improve their fishing business, scholarships to support their children’s
education,[4]
etc. By documenting their experiences and challenges, the study can
contribute to amplifying their voices and advocating for their rights,
potentially leading to policy changes or support for affected communities |
|
Findings from Preliminary Visit: Poor Road Access: The community faces
challenges with poor road infrastructure, which hinders mobility and access
to essential services and overall socio-economic development in the area. Creamy Muddy Sea: The sea in the community
appeared creamy and muddy, indicating the presence of pollutants and
sedimentation resulting from TNO-C activities. According to the Ghana Jubilee
Field Phase 1 development, non-technical executive summary of the environmental
impact statement, the TNO-C activities will involve a lifespan of discharges
from their oil drilling and operation into the sea including black water,
grey water, bilge water, and ballast water which will all occasionally be contaminated
with hydrocarbon. Their assessment concluded that there was a minor significance
that the discharges will affect the shoreline communities or cause
discoloration of the sea[5]. But the current appearance and condition of the sea paints a
different picture of the significant impact the that their operations have
had on the shoreline communities. The
fishermen also indicated that the TNO-C activities have affected the sea
integrity and the communities contrary to what they reported in their assessment
report. This observation suggests potential water contamination and adverse
effects on marine life, impacting the community's fishing livelihoods and the
overall health of the ecosystem. Loss of
Livelihood: The activities of TNO-C
have caused a reduction in the fish population in the sea. This has had a
significant impact on the fishing community, as their livelihood depends on
the availability of fish. The reduction in fish availability has led to a
decrease in the fishing business, which has resulted in unemployment for many
of the community members. During working hours, there was a noticeable
presence of community members on the streets, as they had no alternative
livelihood to fall back on. The TNO-C activities have also made it more
difficult for fishermen to access their fishing grounds. This is due to the
construction of oil rigs, the creation of exclusion zones, and other
infrastructure, which has blocked traditional fishing routes. As a result,
many community members have lost their livelihoods and are now struggling to
make ends meet. Destroyed
Canoes and, Nets: Most of the canoes and
nets owned by community members who fish for a living were destroyed when
they were hit by boats operated by the TNO-C without adequate compensation to
cover the damages. This has had a significant impact on the community's
ability to fish, as well as on the economic well-being of those who rely on
fishing for their livelihood. The destruction of the canoes and nets has
limited the number of operational fishing vessels available to the community
and has had a negative impact on their income. The economic well-being of the
community has been significantly affected by the destruction of the canoes
and nets. Loss of
lives: The occurrence of
these collisions, resulting in irreparable damage to canoes and fishing nets,
has tragically led to the loss of life for a significant number of fishermen
on board these vessels. These unfortunate incidents have been compounded by
the challenges faced by the fishing community, characterized by illiteracy
and the absence of technological resources to document or identify the
specific oil companies responsible for these accidents. As a consequence, the
affected families are left bereft of any means to seek justice for their
loved ones whose lives were lost in these unfortunate occurrences Abuses by
the Navy: Community members have
expressed fear and anxiety about the abuses they have suffered at the hands
of the Navy. They have reported being physically assaulted.. In the past,
community members had the freedom to fish without fear of harassment or
violence. However, in recent years, after the commencement of the TNO-C
activities, the Navy has been increasingly aggressive and assaults them
during their fishing activities. This has led to a climate of fear and
intimidation in the community and has made it difficult for people to make a
living from fishing Unfulfilled
Promises: Community members
reported a sense of disappointment and disillusionment due to unfulfilled
promises made by the TNO-Cs. They highlighted promises of better lives and
compensation that never materialized, leaving the community feeling betrayed
and let down by the oil companies. |
|
|
Engagement Means: (Focus Group Discussion,
Key Informant Interviews, One on One Engagement): Kindly
indicate: Focus Group
Discussion, Public Forum and One on One Engagement Focus group discussion, public forum and
one-on-one engagements were employed to engage with the Shama community to
collect data on the impact of TNO-C activities. These inclusive and
interactive methods allowed for great rich insights, and nuanced
understanding, and build relationships with the community. The focus group
discussions were held with representative groups of community members, who
shared their experiences and perspectives in a safe and supportive
environment. The one-on-one engagements allowed for more detailed information
from individuals, and to build rapport with community members. To further amplify the community's voices, a public forum was
organized to engage a broader audience within the community. The public forum
served as a platform to disseminate the findings and insights from the focus
group discussions, increasing awareness and understanding of the challenges
faced by the community. The public forum fostered dialogue and facilitated an exchange of
ideas and confirmation/validation of the initial findings from the FGDs. It
provided an opportunity for the community to directly express their
grievances, needs, and expectations. Through testimonies and open
discussions, community members shared their perspectives on the negative
impacts of TNO-C activities on the environment, food security, health, and
livelihoods. The public forum also catalysed collaboration and collective action.
It generated discussions around potential solutions, strategies, and
interventions to address the challenges identified. |
|
|
TNO-C Impacts on the Environment: Ballast
water: Ballast water is a type of water that is trapped
in a ship’s ballast task from the sea to help ensure the ship's stability during
the voyage. The fishermen complained that the
ship from the foreign country coming for the oil comes with this ballast
water from the foreign sea and dumps them in the domestic seain Ghana. Their
concern with the ballast water is that it contains sediments, oil, and
organisms from international waters which when introduced into the sea
contaminates it, introduce foreign substances and organisms that affect the
natural habitat of the fish, and pose a threat to the public health of the
communities. They claim this activity contaminates the sea and changes
the ecosystem affecting the population of fish. One of the community members
stated, “…we do not know what this
water contains and where they filled it up from but when they are coming to
pick up the oil, they dump it into our part of the sea and we end up using
the same water to cook when we go fishing. It is sometimes very discomforting
when you are on your boat fishing and cooking with the seawater and you turn
and look at the sea and realizse that the sea is liaised with petroleum oil. Frankly
speaking, nowadays we are developed some chest pains when we use the seawater
to cook” Increased
population of seaweeds: The TNO-C activities in the sea have
caused an outgrowth of seaweeds preventing fishermen from effectively
engaging in their fishing activities. The excess seaweeds trap their nets
when fishing and take hours to cut their way through it to escape, time that
could have been used for fishing to better their livelihood is spent on
escaping excess seaweeds which had grown due to the activities of the oil
drilling. Others made references to the seaweed inflaming their bodies
resulting in itchiness, red and bumpy skin causing them to spend months and
over on treating themselves. Air Quality Compromised: The
TNO-C activity, specifically the practice of gas flaring, has had a
detrimental impact on the quality of air in the community. In the Shama
community, the gas flaring associated with TNO-C activities has resulted in
the release of harmful substances and pollutants into the air. The community
reported that before the activity of the Oil companies the air and the breeze they experienced in
the community and during their time at sea gave them a sense of refreshment vitality
and improved their health. But in recent times, due to the activities of the
TNO-C, the air quality in the community has lost that significance and
profile it used to have which they are worried may degrade the local
ecosystems, harm vegetation, and impact the overall ecological balance. The
activity of Transnational Oil Companies (TNO-Cs) in the Shama community has
had a profound impact on the marine ecosystem, leading to the creation of
musty in the sea and the destruction of the delicate balance of the
ecosystem. The community members expressed deep concerns about the
detrimental effects of TNO-C activities on the sea and its biodiversity. They
reported observing the formation of musty, which refers to the accumulation
of thick, viscous substances on the surface of the water. The creation of
musty is a direct result of the discharge of pollutants, including oil and
chemical waste, into the sea from TNO-C operations. The presence of musty in
the sea has had far-reaching consequences for the marine ecosystem. It has
disrupted the delicate balance of the ecosystem, affecting marine life and
biodiversity. Community members highlighted the decline in fish populations
since its emergence. The destruction of the ecosystem has not only impacted
the livelihoods of fishermen but also disrupted the food chain and ecosystem
services that support the local environment. |
|
|
TNO-C Impacts on Food Security: The activities of the TNO-Cs have significantly reduced the
availability of fish in the sea and the designated fishing zones, making it increasingly
difficult for the community to access vital food source. Previously, fishing
was a reliable means of sustenance for the community. However, the quality of
fish they catch nowadays is not comparable to what it used to be. “We have been experiencing a problem with
fish spoilage. Previously, it took a long time for fish to go bad after being
caught. However, in recent years, the fish go bad quickly, sometimes even
before we reach the shores. This has made the fish unsafe for consumption or
sale” said Justice Mark Ackun, the chief fisherman. They have attributed
this deterioration to the current TNO-C activities in the area. “We have
resorted to consuming the fishes going bad despite the risk of food
poisoning. This has resulted in several incidents of foodborne illnesses,
further compromising the health and well-being of the community.” “The
substandard quality of the fish has made it challenging for us to sell the
fish we catch. As a result, the money and resources invested in fishing
activities have become losses for us. This discouraging situation has
diminished the desirability of engaging in fishing within the community.” “Fishing activities have traditionally been the main
source of income for the community, and the decline in fish quality and
reduced marketability have had severe consequences. The limited income
generated from fishing severely restricts our ability to afford nutritious
foods for ourselves and our families. This situation exacerbates the already
existing food security challenges faced by the community” |
|
|
TNO-C Impacts on Communal Health and Well-being:
Fish Contamination:
Participants expressed concerns about the contamination of fish with
chemicals as a result of TNO-C activities. This raised significant doubts
about the safety and quality of the fish consumed as food. The community
reported several cases of food poisoning, indicating the potential health
risks associated with the consumption of contaminated fishes.. One of the
participants recalled the events leading up to this incident, “ …….the fishes when we brought them back
from the sea were not of quality as we had previously before the oil
companies came. Due to the nature of the fish we couldn’t sell them nor throw
them away but we had to eat them ourselves with our families. We have
multiple cases from people who ate that batches of fish all complaining of
stomach aches” Water Contamination:
The contamination of water sources due to the TNO-C activities offshore has
affected their source of water during fishing activities at sea and at home
for daily use, which was also a major concern raised by the community. TNO-C
activities contributed to the pollution of their water sources, further
compromising their health and well-being. Access to clean water for cooking
and other activities has become a challenge, impacting their overall health
and hygiene practices. The sea in general, serves as a source of water for the
people of Shama for the various activities they undertake. This is the same
water they used in cooking, bathing, washing, and other. But the emergence of
these oil companies’ activities has contaminated the sea with a brownish
colour and since they have no choice, they still use it. As a result, causing
cholera, diarrhea, and polio among them Limited Access to Quality
Healthcare: The decline in fishing activities,
largely attributed to the impact of TNO-C activities, had negative
consequences for the community's access to quality healthcare. Financial
instability resulting from the economic challenges faced by the community
hindered their ability to afford quality healthcare services. Additionally,
the lack of a public hospital and the ineffectiveness of the National Health
Insurance Scheme further impeded their ability to seek necessary medical care
for their health issues. Skin Inflammation:
Community members reported a surge in cases of inflammation, particularly on
the skin and feet which is presented as itchiness, redness, and bumpy skin.
They attributed these health issues to the activities of TNO-Cs, highlighting
the adverse impact on their overall well-being and quality of life. |
|
|
TNO-C Impacts on Social Livelihood: Relocation
of Fishing activities: Despite
fishermen and sellers not getting fish at Shama due to this oil formation,
fishermen and fishmongers have relocated to Elmina, Axim, and Sekondi to fish
and make sales there, but return home with a little. They complain that the
transport fares from Shama to Axim for instance, are 200 cedis in and out
whilst, they don’t earn better profit in the end. A
decline in the shoreline economy: The impact of the TNO-C activities
on the community has led to the loss of jobs on the part of traders in the
Shama community. The trading activities like selling dresses, food, and
juices to fishermen have collapsed. As these have deeply affected the community, exacerbating
existing challenges and hindering their ability to thrive as they do not earn
much to boost the local economy. High
cost of living: Fishermen
lamented that, even though
they are not living wealthy, the oil drilling activities have worsened the
issue. This is because of the rise in the cost of living. Meanwhile, there has
been no compensation from the side of the government or the oil industries.
They are left out of all decision-making processes and there has been little
to no regard for the impact they are currently enduring due to the TNO-C
activities. For instance, their children’s school fees, transportation fares,
electricity bills, and rent are on increase, leading some of their children to
be drop-outs. Creation
of Exclusion Zones: The
discovery of oil came along with the demarcation of the exclusion zone.
The exclusion zone is defined as 500 meters away from the oil ridge with no
clear visible indication of where the zone ends. The Chief fisherman
lamented, “we are illiteracy with
little to no education, but you have created an exclusion zone of 500 meters
so how do you expect us to know where that zone begins if the zones have no
clear signage to show that any movement beyond this point is into the
exclusion zone”. “The oil rig where the exclusion zone compass is where most
of the fish now habitat due to the light from the rig making it difficult for
us to get enough fish to improve our lives” Others added that “we don’t control the flow of the sea and before
you realized the Navy is on us harassing us for entering the exclusion zone
whiles there is nothing there to show that that place is an exclusion zone.
They will sometimes take away our nets and fishes” Fishermen who fish near the
exclusion zone were reported to have been physically assaulted by the Navy. A
participant also expressed his grievances saying “We are Ghanaians and most of the oil companies coming in are from
foreign countries, so why will the Navy be harassing us and impeding our
livelihood while protecting the foreigners and their work which is severely
destroying our way of life” said Egya Egyire. |
|
|
Briefs from the
Community Dialogue: The
community dialogue was organized to allow community members to verify the
information discussed in the previous focus group meeting regarding the
effects of Trans-National Oil Corporations' activities in the community.
During the dialogue, Mr. Labram Musah, the Executive Director for Programs at
VALD-Ghana, explained the importance of sharing personal experience in order
to find solutions to their concerns. The discussion revealed the following
impacts and concerns: 1. Concerns about the emergence and
development of a new construction site
for a gas pipeline: The community
expressed concern about a new industry that has set plans in motion to
develop and construct a gas pipeline that passes through their homes and
farmlands. They indicated that the industry has held no consultative meeting
with the community to discuss the impact of the plant on the community. It is
however rumored that the people who own the lands for the location of the
plants have been compensated but those who own the land and property on the
routes tended for the pipeline have not been engaged. The community demanded
that they need a non-technical impact assessment statement carefully
explained to them before the industry commences any activity within the
community. They worried that a case of fire outbreak during construction or
operation could cause significant damage, loss of lives, and homelessness on the
part of the community. 2.
Lack of evidence to seek justice for losses: Some fishermen do not
have access to smartphones nor do they bring them when fishing. As a result,
they lack the means to record and document most of the dilemmas they endure
to provide evidence when reporting cases of abuse and theft of fish to the
authorities. This leads to no charges being filed against the industry and
complicates their case when they demand compensation. 3.
Lack of security devices: The community members expressed shocked that
the sea or areas where the exclusion zone are lacks essential security
devices, such as GMDSS equipment and intelligent fire alarm systems. These
devices would help them protect themselves from abusive actions by Navy
personnel. They also cited the example of Gabon, where security gadgets are
used to monitor foreigners on the sea. 4.
Restrictions imposed by oil corporations on fishing activities: The
TNO-Cs, including Tullow oil company, restrict fishing activities in certain
areas of the sea without providing compensation for the halt of the
livelihood the community depends on for survival. In some cases, the TNO-C
may issue a monthly restriction of no fishing activities in the sea while
they conduct surveys to determine new sites for their activities. Whilst
these activities have aided and improved the TNO-C activities and operations,
the community has suffered major economic losses due to restrictions placed
on their livelihoods. This creates financial difficulties for fishermen who
have taken loans to expand their businesses, as they are unable to generate
an income during the ban period. This puts them at risk of not being able to
repay their loans and cover other expenses. Fredrick Essien, a community
member, expressed concerns about the financial implications of the fishing
restrictions, as many fishermen rely on loans to operate their businesses |
|
|
1.
Healthcare: Community members requested public health facilities
within the Shama community to help increase access to healthcare 2.
Committee Formation: Community members suggested delegation of a trustworthy
individuals from each of the communities affected by oil activities or
impacted by climate change to act as representatives to present the community
needs and priorities whiles ensuring that various incentives or packages that
are meant for community development are duly implemented as needed and
discussed 3.
Acquisition of New Outboard Motors: Due to Navy activities damaging
their canoes and machinery at night, many community members no longer have
canoes for fishing. Some have to rely on spare canoes from others, while
others have canoes that are old and deteriorating. Therefore, funds provided can
be used to purchase new motors for fishing to ensure the safety and
sustainability of their livelihood 4.
Business Investment: Community members want to use the funds to boost
their businesses and increase profits. They will invest in their respective
occupations, professions, or trades, venturing into various business
categories to improve their standard of living. 5.
Provision of Higher Educational Incentives and Sponsorships: The funds
will help community members further their children's education. The loss of
jobs due to TNO-C activities has caused some children to drop out of school,
especially among fishermen and women who trade along the shorelines. The
funds can help support their children's educational pursuits. 6. Purchase of Nets: Fishermen
intend to use funds to buy better nets for fishing. The government advises
against using rubber nets and encourages cloth nets, which are more expensive
but less durable. The funds will help fishermen invest in these more
sustainable options. |
|
|
Well-referenced pictures stating (who, what,
and date):
Mr. Labram Musah, the Executive Director of
programs VALD Ghana, telling participants of how they should feel free to
express their experiences concerning the impact of the TNO-Cs activities on
their community, on 27th July, 2023. (Public Forum) Mr.
Solomon Foli right, the Program Officer for VALD Ghana, explaining more to
Hon. Isaiah Mensah left, the Assemblyman for Etsifi electoral area, into
sharing their experiences on TNO-Cs activities on 4th July, 2023. (Focused Group)
The Chief Fisherman, Justice Mark Ackun
pointing the homes of where the construction of the gas pipelines has
passed through including their farms
lands on 27th July, 2023. (Public Forum)
Margret Otoo, a Trader telling how the activities of
TNO-Cs has collapsed her food selling business on 27th July, 2023.
(Public Forum)
Godfred Tweneboa Kodua, the Research
Officer for VALD Ghana telling members to bring out their recommendations
they feel will help the community concerning the TNO-Cs impacts on them on 4th
July, 2023. (Focused
Group) Kofi Rockson showing index finger, a
fisherman, telling how pained he is towards the unfulfilled promises made by the oil
corporations, hands behind is the Finance Officer for VALD Ghana, Mr. Stephen
Addo. (Public Forum). Faces of fishermen shows how hurtful they feel concerning the
Trans-National Oil Corporations activities in their community. (Focused Group)
Mr.
Labram Musah, the Executive Director for Programs VALD Ghana, beside him is
Matilda Mensah, the Assistant Communication Officer for VALD Ghana, listening
attentively to the grievances shared by community members concerning the
TNO-Cs activities on 27th July, 2023. (Public
Forum)
A group
picture with Community Members (Public Forum) Focused group discussion with members,
standing in the middle is the research officer, Godfred Tweneboa Kodua.
Mr. Samuel Bassaw raised hands in white
shirt, explaining to Godfred how the TNO-C activities has made him jobless
and the scholarship they promised to offer his science student child, was not
fulfilled. (Focused Group) |
|
|
Personal
Observations/Summary: By
engaging with local fishermen, we attempted to understand their experiences
and collaboratively gather insights into the current situation. The objective
is to present a comprehensive analysis of the situation and propose relevant
recommendations for the sustainable development of these communities. To
obtain first-hand information, we conducted interviews with fishermen from
various communities affected by oil drilling. Our conversations included
discussions on their experiences, challenges faced, and changes they have
observed over time. We also recorded our personal observations during field
visits, collecting data on factors such as fish populations, environmental
changes, and socio-economic aspects. Findings
and Observations: a.
Reduced fish populations: Fishermen consistently reported declining catch
sizes and reduced diversity of marine species within drilling proximity. b.
Contamination and pollution: Instances of oil spills and toxic waste disposal
have contaminated coastal water, harming marine life and affecting the
quality of the catch. c.
Reduced fish stocks and contamination have led to increased financial strain
and decreased income levels among fishermen. d.
The once-thriving fishing communities are experiencing a loss of cultural heritage
and traditional knowledge due to the decline in fishery activities. Based on
our interactions with fishermen and personal observations, it is evident that
oil drilling activities are significantly impacting the livelihoods and
communities of fishermen. Our recommendations aim to mitigate these negative
impacts, preserve indigenous cultures, and promote sustainable practices. It
is crucial for stakeholders, including fishing communities, governmental
bodies, and oil companies, to collaborate closely and prioritize the
long-term well-being of these communities, ensuring equitable and sustainable
development. |
|
1.
Funding Allocation: Local fishermen assert that the profits from oil
extraction primarily benefit foreigners and the government, while the
community suffers from negative impacts. Therefore, they propose receiving
adequate compensation from the oil revenue to address the current negative
impacts they are experiencing. 2.
Utilization of Local Workforce: The community recommends that TNO-C
prioritize hiring local community members to address job losses caused by
their activities. This step aims to alleviate economic hardships, stimulate
the local economy, and empower the community. Hiring locals brings valuable
knowledge, promotes sustainability, and improves communication with the
community. Transparent and inclusive hiring processes should be established
to ensure equal opportunities for all community members. 3.
Coastal Protection Platform and Harbor: The community suggests
implementing a coastal protection platform or establishing a mini- harbor to
protect against destructive waves caused by TNO-C activities. This
infrastructure would safeguard the coastline, preserve properties, and
support economic activities like fishing and tourism. It would also enhance
the community's resilience to climate change. 4.
Infrastructure Development and New Schools: The community urges TNO-Cs
and relevant authorities to invest in essential infrastructure, including
roads and new schools. Improved infrastructure will enhance connectivity,
create employment opportunities, and provide a conducive environment for
social and economic development. The construction of new schools will address
the lack of educational facilities and ensure access to quality education. 5.
Adequate Public Hospital: The community emphasizes the need for a
well-equipped public hospital within the community. Cooperation between
TNO-Cs and government authorities is necessary to establish a healthcare
facility that can cater to the community's needs, such as regular free health
screenings. The presence of a public hospital will ensure timely and
affordable healthcare to address the health disparities resulting from TNO-C
activities. 6.
Public Waste Systems and Access to Safe Water: The community calls for
the implementation of public waste systems to address the waste management
challenges caused by TNO-C activities. Proper waste disposal and recycling
initiatives will promote a cleaner environment and protect community health.
Additionally, increasing access to high-quality drinking water sources is
crucial to address water contamination issues and provide safe water to the
community. 7.
Alternative Employment Opportunities: The community urges the creation
of alternative employment opportunities to mitigate the economic impact of
declining fishing activities. TNO-Cs should invest in diversification
programs and support the development of new industries. This will provide
community members with alternative sources of income, reduce dependence on
fishing, and promote economic resilience. 8.
Unity among Fishermen: Assemblyman Mr. Ebenezer Amukwandor emphasizes
the power of unity among fishermen. He suggests that they come together with
a clear focus and direction to protect their interests and ensure that TNO-C
activities do not disadvantage them. Drawing from the example of reduced
robbery cases through community monitoring, he encourages harmonizing their
efforts to restore peace and security. 9.
Enactment and Enforcement of Bye-Laws: Authorities should establish
rules and regulations to regulate and restrict the actions of Navy personnel
at sea, thus protecting the rights of fishermen. Strict enforcement of these
laws will ensure that fishermen can fish without fear and panic and live a
healthy life free from harm. 10.
Retirement Benefits: As fishermen play a crucial role in providing
food to the general public, they should receive compensation or retirement
packages to support themselves when they can no longer fish. This is
essential to ensure their well-being and provide for their needs in their old
age. 11.
Design and implement fair compensation programs for loss of income and
livelihood disruptions during drilling operations 12.
Support local communities in adopting sustainable fishing practices to
mitigate the adverse effects of drilling on fish populations . |
Coordination
|
Organization |
Corporate Accountability and Public
Participation Africa (CAPPA) |
|
Contact |
Ogunlade Olamide
Martins Climate Change
Program Manager Email:
ogunladeolamide@cappaafrica.org |
|
Responsibility |
CAPPA’s Climate Change Programme Desk. |
NB:
·
TNO-C means Trans-National Oil Corporation
·
Kindly feel free to expand the tables but to a maximum of
5 pages in all.
·
The document is for the purpose above except if stated
otherwise. Keep confidential and solely for the task. CAPPA holds the exclusive
reserve to its use and protection.
[1] F. K. Ayifli, K. B. Adom-opare, and T. Kerekang,
“Community Perspectives on the Impacts of Oil and Gas activities in Ghana: a
closer look and analysis of Fisheries Livelihoods within Six Coastal
Districts.,” 5th Eur. Conf. African Stud. African Dyn. a Multipolar World,
pp. 331–358, 2014.
[2]
https://eiti.org/blog-post/engaging-communities-just-transition-ellembelle-ghana
[3]
https://www.modernghana.com/news/534296/coastal-communities-prepare-against-oil-spill.html
[4] I. Y. Kophy, “Ghana’s oil industry: the livelihood
implications for fishing communities in the Western region,” 2019.
[5] M. Irvine, Al. de Jong, and A.
Armah, “Ghana Jubilee Field Phase 1 Development: Non Technical Executive
Summary of Environmental Impact Statement,” 2009.
Comments
Post a Comment