Illegal mining has emerged as a pressing issue with significant implications for economic growth and development in Ghana. This systematic review examines the impact of illegal mining on the country's economy and its overall development trajectory. The study focuses on the adverse effects of illegal mining, including environmental degradation, social instability, governance challenges, and lost revenue. It explores the interconnectedness of these impacts and their implications for sustainable development goals. The review reveals that illegal mining hampers economic growth by undermining formal mining activities, reducing investor confidence, and limiting government revenue. It highlights the detrimental effects on key sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure. The environmental consequences, including deforestation, water pollution, and soil degradation, also pose long-term challenges for sustainable economic development. Additionally, the review identifies governance gaps and regulatory weaknesses as key drivers of illegal mining in Ghana. Inadequate enforcement, corruption, and weak institutional frameworks contribute to the persistence of illegal mining activities. These factors erode the rule of law and hinder effective resource management, posing obstacles to sustainable development. The study underscores the importance of addressing illegal mining comprehensively. It emphasizes the need for enhanced regulation, enforcement, and institutional capacity building to curtail illegal mining activities and promote responsible mining practices. Strengthening governance frameworks, engaging local communities, and fostering partnerships with international stakeholders is vital for sustainable economic growth and development. By shedding light on the multifaceted impacts of illegal mining, this systematic review provides valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders. It underscores the urgency of taking concrete actions to combat illegal mining and create an enabling environment ...
