Sammy Gyamfi Reveals Measures to Formalise Small-Scale Mining in Ghana

According to a report by GHOne TV on October 31, 2026, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, has outlined measures Ghana intends to adopt to formalise artisanal and small-scale mining through lessons drawn from four countries.

In a statement issued on October 31, Mr Gyamfi identified Colombia, Mongolia, Peru and Tanzania as countries whose mining formalisation experiences could guide Ghana’s Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP).

The initiative, championed by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, is designed to organise eligible informal miners into registered cooperatives, equip them with technical skills and help them secure the necessary licences to operate legally.

Mr Gyamfi explained that the programme would focus on sustainable mining practices, environmental protection and improved mineral recovery. Registered cooperatives are expected to receive training in mercury-free gold processing, land reclamation and environmentally responsible mining operations.

He further indicated that the programme aims to complete the formalisation and licensing process within six months. The initiative has received Cabinet approval and has been incorporated into an amendment bill to the Minerals and Mining Act currently before Parliament.

Additionally, GoldBod is collaborating with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to provide financial and technical assistance to licensed small-scale miners from 2027. The support programme, being developed in partnership with the University of Mines and Technology, will cover geological investigations, equipment financing, concession assessments, land reclamation and mercury-free processing.

Mr Gyamfi has called for bipartisan support and active participation from relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative.

He expressed confidence that formalising the sector would create sustainable employment opportunities, strengthen indigenous businesses, improve environmental protection and support Ghana’s efforts to address illegal mining.

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