GoldBod Rejects Claims That Its Mining Policy Endorses Galamsey

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has rejected claims that its policy of transitioning eligible miners from illegal operations into regulated mining amounts to an endorsement of illegal mining, describing the interpretation as a misrepresentation of its position.

The Board’s response follows the circulation of a selectively edited video that it says has been used to portray its mining policy in a misleading manner.

GoldBod maintains that its approach is aimed at moving eligible miners into a regulated framework where their activities can be monitored and conducted in accordance with applicable laws and responsible mining practices.

The policy is intended to provide a pathway for eligible miners to operate within established regulatory requirements rather than continue outside the formal system.

The Board’s position draws a distinction between supporting the formalisation of eligible mining operations and endorsing illegal mining, commonly known in Ghana as galamsey. While formalisation seeks to bring qualifying operators under regulatory oversight, illegal mining remains a concern because of its environmental and social consequences.

GoldBod’s rejection of the video’s interpretation highlights the importance of presenting public statements and policy positions in their proper context, particularly on an issue as sensitive as illegal mining.

The controversy also comes amid wider national efforts to address illegal mining and strengthen oversight of the gold sector. The balance between supporting livelihoods in mining communities and enforcing environmental and mining regulations remains a significant policy challenge.

GoldBod has reiterated that its policy should be understood as an effort to promote regulated and responsible mining, rather than as an endorsement of activities that violate the country’s mining laws.

The Board’s clarification is expected to contribute to public discussion about the distinction between formalising eligible miners and permitting illegal mining activities.

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