A narrative review of the consequences of children’s participation in illegal mining in Ghana

Illegal artisanal mining, popularly known as Galamsey , has emerged as one of Ghana’s most pressing socio-environmental challenges, with profound implications for children’s health, education, and welfare. This study adopts a narrative review approach underpinned by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory to examine the multi-layered effects of Galamsey on children in affected communities. Drawing on peer-reviewed literature, policy documents, and media reports, the study explores four key areas: the nature and dynamics of Galamsey in Ghana; the extent of children’s involvement; the positive and negative impacts on child well-being; and strategies to protect children. Findings reveal that Galamsey ’s persistence is driven by structural poverty, weak governance, and limited livelihood alternatives, which interact across ecological levels to expose children to hazardous labour, health risks, and educational disruption. While government interventions have focused mainly on enforcement, they have failed to address the underlying socio-economic drivers. The paper concludes that an integrated, child-centred ecological response, combining environmental regulation, education reform, and social protection, is crucial for safeguarding children and promoting sustainable development.