Sammy Gyamfi defends formalisation of unlicensed small-scale mining

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi, has defended the government's efforts to formalize unlicensed artisanal and small-scale mining operations. He argued that miners who do not harm water sources, forest reserves, or public health and safety should be supported to operate legally. Mr. Gyamfi identified mining in water bodies, forest reserves, and inappropriate locations within communities as unacceptable practices.

He stated that any unlicensed miner operating in a non-impacting location could be eligible for the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP). Mr. Gyamfi criticized the circulation of a manipulated video of his remarks, which omits critical information about the government's support for formalization.

He emphasized that formalization, training, and traceability are crucial for reducing environmental damage and promoting sustainable economic opportunities. GoldBod plans to launch an Artisanal and Small-scale Mining Formalisation and Financing Support Programme (FFSP) in 2027, which will provide eligible miners with legal documentation, certifications, permits, and training.

Mr. Gyamfi stressed that regulation must be firm but practical, inclusive, and commercially sound, with compliance offering opportunities rather than hardships. He believes that formalization, financing support, and training will help artisanal and small-scale mining contribute to livelihoods, generate foreign exchange, strengthen reserves, foster indigenous enterprise, and advance national development sustainably.