Government remains committed to lawful, responsible mining - Chief of Staff

Chief of Staff Dr Julius Debrah has reiterated the government's dedication to responsible mining and enforcing the law. Speaking at the National Mining Dialogue in Accra on Tuesday, August 18, through Deputy Government Spokesperson Shamima Muslim, Debrah emphasized that protecting miners' livelihoods and safeguarding the environment and water bodies can coexist. He stated that the government will handle each case fairly based on evidence and through appropriate institutions.

Debrah assured that Ghana does not have to choose between preserving its lands and water resources and maintaining the livelihoods of its miners. The government supports the Ghana Gold Board (GOLDOB) in its efforts to enhance traceability and establish a regulated, transparent framework for the buying and selling of artisanal and small-scale gold.

Ghana has recently become the 6th largest gold producer globally, a fact that comes with significant responsibility. Debrah highlighted the need to maintain the integrity of the gold supply chain and retain more value for the country. He noted that formalization should not be seen as a war against vulnerability and security but rather as a transition from an opaque market to a fair one, and from unsafe practices to responsible livelihoods.

Debrah emphasized that the public will judge Ghana's mining economy based on two outcomes: stronger national reserves and greater value retained within the country. Through initiatives such as the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme and the GOLDBOD reform agenda, the government aims to ensure that gold contributes to monetary stability in a transparent and tangible manner.