The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) is set to launch a new programme aimed at formalizing eligible informal small-scale miners within six months. The initiative, known as the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), seeks to integrate informal artisanal miners into the regulated mining sector while promoting responsible and environmentally sustainable operations. According to GoldBod's Chief Executive Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, the programme will organize eligible miners into cooperatives and provide training in sustainable mining practices.
Under the programme, miners will be trained in mercury-free gold processing, land reclamation, and environmentally friendly extraction methods. The cooperatives will be assigned to mineralized areas approved by relevant regulatory bodies, including the Minerals Commission, Environmental Protection Agency, Water Resources Commission, and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. This move is expected to support the government's campaign against illegal mining and generate sustainable employment opportunities for young people.
The rCOMSDEP programme has received Cabinet approval, and an amendment bill to the Minerals and Mining Act is currently before Parliament. GoldBod is working closely with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources to implement the programme, which is part of its statutory mandate to promote the formalization of Ghana's small-scale mining industry. The programme's success will depend on the cooperation of various stakeholders, including miners, regulatory bodies, and local communities.
To ensure the programme's effectiveness, participation will be limited to miners who are not operating in areas covered by existing mineral rights or locations where mining could threaten water bodies, forest reserves, and nearby communities. This measure aims to prevent conflicts with existing mining operations and protect the environment. GoldBod is drawing lessons from formalization programmes in Colombia, Mongolia, Peru, and Tanzania to inform Ghana's approach.
The formalization of small-scale mining is expected to give more indigenous businesses and individuals meaningful participation in Ghana's mineral industry. According to Mr. Gyamfi, properly organized artisanal and small-scale mining offers a clear pathway to indigenous ownership in practice. By combining formalization with modern technology, Ghana can improve safety standards, strengthen environmental protection, create jobs, and increase the contribution of indigenous enterprises to national development.
The programme's implementation will be closely monitored, with regular assessments to ensure that cooperatives are meeting the required standards. GoldBod will work with relevant regulatory bodies to ensure that cooperatives are complying with environmental and safety regulations. This will help to build trust and confidence in the programme and ensure its long-term sustainability.
The formalization of small-scale mining in Ghana is a significant step towards promoting responsible and sustainable mining practices. With the right implementation and support, the rCOMSDEP programme can serve as a model for other countries in the region. By providing opportunities for indigenous businesses and individuals to participate in the mineral industry, Ghana can promote economic growth and development while protecting the environment and ensuring the well-being of local communities.
Key points
- The programme aims to formalize eligible informal small-scale miners within six months.
- The programme will provide training in sustainable mining practices, mercury-free gold processing, and environmentally friendly extraction methods.
- The formalization of small-scale mining is expected to promote responsible and sustainable mining practices, generate employment opportunities, and increase the contribution of indigenous enterprises to national development.
