Green T defends GoldBod CEO’s cooperative mining remarks, urges support for formalisation

The Green Traceability Minds Foundation (Green T) has stood up for comments made by the CEO of Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi, regarding cooperative mining. Green T argued that these remarks were misunderstood as endorsing illegal mining practices. In a statement released on October 26, 2026, Green T clarified that Gyamfi's comments were about a regulated framework allowing eligible small-scale miners to operate legally.

The foundation made it clear that cooperative mining should not be mistaken for galamsey, emphasizing that the model aims to bring eligible miners into a formal system with clear responsibilities, regulatory oversight, and environmental protection. They reiterated that mining remains prohibited in certain sensitive areas, urging the public to interpret Gyamfi's comments within this context and engage in evidence-based discussions about formalizing Ghana's artisanal and small-scale mining sector.

Green T has consistently supported the cooperative model as a way to assist miners lacking proper documentation who are willing to comply with the law and adopt responsible practices. Through registration, practical training, monitoring, and guidance, they believe such measures can enhance safety and sustainability in the mining sector.

They are collaborating with regional committees and the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEPs) to make formalization more accessible. Their efforts include partnering with Solidaridad to train 2,000 miners in responsible mining practices, aiming to equip them with the skills needed for safe operations, legal compliance, and sustainability.

The foundation expressed concern over a large number of mining licenses pending approval and noted that some trained miners, through their “Fair Mine” program, are uncertain about their licensing status. They emphasized that encouraging responsible mining practices should not overlook the necessity of compliance with existing laws and regulations.

Green T sees the cooperative pathway as an opportunity to enhance accountability, traceability, and regulatory oversight, rather than excluding willing operators. They stressed that their support is conditional on responsible mining and adherence to the law, calling on all stakeholders to promote formalization while safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources and critical infrastructure.