Economic development in the Gold Coast

Question 1

Transport

Answer 1

1. The construction of the Sekondi-Tarakwa road in 1898
2. By 1937, there were 9700 kilometers of roads in the country

Question 2

Agriculture

Answer 2

1. Cocoa was introduced 1878 and was the first cash crop
2. The Cocoa Marketing board was established in 1947

Question 3

Mining

Answer 3

1.Gold brought the British to Ghana and was only discovered in the 1890s
2. The Ashanti Goldfields Corporation gained concession of about 160 square kilometers in which to prospect commercially for for gold after organization in 1897

Question 4

Frederick Guggisberg propositions

Answer 4

1. suggested the improvement of transportation
2. He proposed improvements in water supply, drainage, hydroelectric projects schools, hospitals, prisons and communication lines
   3.They were going to open an artificial harbor at Takoradi
3. Achimota’s college became one of the best schools accredited to Guggisberg

Question 5

What were the positive impacts of agricultural development?

Answer 5

• Introduction of Cash Crops: Colonial powers introduced cash crops such as cocoa and palm oil, which became major exports and contributed significantly to the economy. This introduced commercial agriculture and provided opportunities for local farmers to engage in profitable ventures.
• Improved Agricultural Techniques: Colonial administrations introduced modern agricultural techniques, including better irrigation methods and crop management practices, which increased agricultural productivity and yields.

Question 6

What were the negative impacts of agricultural development?

Answer 6

• Land Dispossession: The colonial government often implemented policies that favored European settlers and large-scale plantations, leading to the dispossession of land from local communities and traditional farmers. This disrupted traditional land ownership systems and caused social and economic upheaval.
• Dependency on Cash Crops: While cash crops boosted the economy, the overemphasis on them led to a lack of diversification in the agricultural sector. This made the economy vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices and hindered the development of other agricultural activities.

Question 7

What were the positive impacts of transport development?

Answer 7

• Infrastructure Development: Colonial powers invested in transportation infrastructure such as railways, roads, and ports to facilitate the movement of goods and people. This improved connectivity and trade within the Gold Coast and with external markets.
• Telecommunication Networks: The introduction of telecommunication networks, albeit limited during the early colonial period, improved communication channels and facilitated administrative functions.

Question 8

What were the negative impacts of transport development?

Answer 8

• Unequal Distribution: Infrastructure development was often focused on areas that benefited colonial interests or regions with economic potential, leading to unequal distribution and neglect of certain areas, especially rural and less developed areas.
• Limited Local Control: The colonial administration controlled major transportation and communication networks, limiting local autonomy and hindering indigenous initiatives in these sectors.

Question 9

What were the positive impacts of mining development?

Answer 9

• Economic Contribution: Mining, particularly gold mining, was a significant contributor to the Gold Coast’s economy during the colonial period. It provided employment opportunities, generated revenue, and attracted investment.
• Technological Advancements: Colonial mining operations introduced modern technologies and methods, improving efficiency and increasing output in the mining sector.

Question 10

What were the negative impacts of mining development?

Answer 10

• Environmental Degradation: Mining activities often led to environmental degradation, including deforestation, pollution of water bodies, and soil erosion, impacting local ecosystems and communities.
• Labor Exploitation: Mining operations relied heavily on cheap labor, often exploiting local workers with low wages, poor working conditions, and limited rights.