Illegal mining continues to threaten livelihoods, ecosystems, and social stability across Ghana. In the
Eastern Region, the Kofi Pare community faced this reality when a mining company, Ignite Machinery,
encroached on their lands under the guise of a prospecting license. What followed demonstrates the
tangible impact of investing in community resilience through the BRACE Project – Building Resilience
and Active Communities in Extractive Landscapes.
For Kofi Pare, the threat was not new. Just three years earlier, unregulated mining activities had resulted
in the loss of farmlands. That experience left lasting environmental and economic damage and reinforced
the community’s determination to prevent history from repeating itself.
Through BRACE, community members had been equipped with practical skills in rights awareness,
documentation, advocacy, and community organizing. These capacities proved critical when Ignite
Machinery moved in. Rather than responding in isolation or fear, residents formed a community action
group and followed structured, lawful pathways for engagement.
With support from BRACE-trained paralegals, the community documented environmental and livelihood
impacts, drafted petitions, and formally engaged local authorities. When initial interventions failed and
mining activities resumed, the community demonstrated resilience—escalating their advocacy using
strategic communication tools strengthened through BRACE.
On October 29, 2024, the community organized a press conference that brought national attention to
their case. Within 24 hours, the pressure generated decisive results. On October 30, 2024, Ignite
Machinery compensated three affected farmers and withdrew all equipment from Kofi Pare, effectively
ending its operations in the community.
This outcome was not accidental. It was the result of deliberate, long-term investment in community
capacity—the central objective of the BRACE project.
Measurable Impact
Illegal mining operations halted in Kofi Pare
Affected farmers compensated for damages
Community members confidently engaged authorities and media
A replicable model of lawful, community-led resistance demonstrated
The Kofi Pare case now serves as a benchmark for community-driven action against illegal mining in
Ghana. It illustrates how empowered communities, when equipped with the right knowledge and support,
can protect their lands, livelihoods, and ecosystems—without resorting to violence or unsustainable
interventions.
“The Kofi Pare case demonstrates the power of collective community action when local people are
equipped with the skills, confidence, and support to defend their rights.”
While this victory is significant, it also highlights the scale of the challenge. Hundreds of communities
across Ghana remain vulnerable to extractive pressures. BRACE continues to work alongside these
communities, strengthening their ability to respond effectively, lawfully, and sustainably.
Kofi Pare shows what is possible when communities are not just supported—but empowered.
