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Ted News Ghana Blog of Thursday, 5 June 2025
Source: TEDDY VAVA GAWUGA
Ghana, one of the world’s top gold producers, is making significant strides to transform its mining sector through a strong focus on sustainability. Backed by policy reforms, environmental safeguards, and economic empowerment programmes, the country is positioning itself to align with international sustainability standards.
As part of this effort, the World Sustainability Organisation (WSO) has introduced its Friend of the Earth Sustainable Mining Certification to support Ghana’s evolving mining industry. The certification promotes environmental protection, ethical labour practices, and traceable supply chains within the mining sector.
“Sustainable mining is crucial for ensuring the long-term viability of the industry, protecting the environment, and benefitting local communities,” said Paolo Bray, Founder and Director of WSO. He added that the certification would help Ghana’s gold sector attract eco-conscious investors and ethical buyers, while boosting international competitiveness.
At the core of Ghana’s reform efforts is the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), launched in April 2025, to regulate, purchase, assay, and export artisanal gold. This centralized system aims to curb illegal mining activities and enhance transparency and traceability, aligning with WSO’s sustainability principles.
Illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, has severely degraded Ghana’s forests, rivers, and farmlands. The government’s clampdown—through stricter licensing, enforcement, and environmental regulations—mirrors global calls for responsible mineral extraction and biodiversity conservation.
The certification is especially vital given that over one million Ghanaians rely on artisanal and small-scale gold mining. The adoption of sustainable standards could ensure long-term livelihoods, reduce ecological harm, and improve access to global markets that increasingly demand responsibly sourced minerals.
With WSO operating in over 70 countries and certifying more than 3,000 products, its entry into Ghana signals a major opportunity for the nation to reinforce its role not only as a mining powerhouse, but also a global leader in responsible resource governance.