Sammy Gyamfi Cites Four Countries as Models for Ghana’s Small-Scale Mining Reforms

Ghana can learn from the experiences of Colombia, Mongolia, Peru and Tanzania as it prepares to formalise artisanal and small-scale mining through its Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), Ghana Gold Board Chief Executive Officer Sammy Gyamfi has said.

In an opinion article, Mr Gyamfi explained that the four countries had introduced various measures to bring informal miners into the regulated sector, improve mining practices and promote environmental sustainability.

He cited Colombia’s 2022 Law 2250, which established a legal framework for traditional miners to apply for formalisation through the Comprehensive Mining System, while offering protection from prosecution for unauthorised mining to eligible applicants.

In Mongolia, revised regulations introduced in 2017 enabled informal miners, popularly known as Ninja miners, to organise themselves into recognised partnerships and cooperatives. The initiative also improved miners’ access to safer technologies and environmentally responsible practices.

Peru established its REINFO mining formalisation register in 2012 to document informal operators. In July 2025, more than 50,000 miners were removed for failing to meet requirements, while others received additional time to complete the process.

Tanzania also recorded progress through the registration of miners, allocation of approved mining areas and issuance of Primary Mining Licences. The programme facilitated the formation of over 5,000 mining groups.

Mr Gyamfi said Ghana’s rCOMSDEP would similarly organise eligible informal miners into cooperatives, provide technical training and facilitate licensing within six months.

The programme, approved by Cabinet and captured in an amendment bill before Parliament, is expected to complement NAIMOS operations, protect the environment and create employment opportunities.

He added that GoldBod, partnering the University of Mines and Technology, plans to introduce financial and technical assistance for licensed small-scale miners from 2027.

Mr Gyamfi believes broad stakeholder support, effective regulation and modern technology will help transform small-scale mining into a safer, more productive sector that contributes to Ghana’s economic development.

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