Sammy Gyamfi’s mining formalisation remarks do not warrant resignation – Centre for Mining Research and Policy

The Centre for Mining Research and Policy has dismissed calls for the resignation of GoldBod CEO Sammy Gyamfi following his remarks on formalizing small-scale mining in Ghana. The Centre argued that Gyamfi's stance aimed at integrating eligible miners into the regulatory system, rather than permitting illegal mining to persist. Dr. Ofori Kodua, a senior researcher at the Centre, clarified that Gyamfi emphasized the necessity of eligible operators obtaining proper documentation, permits, certification, and training to operate legally.

He also condemned any mining activities that harm water bodies, encroach on forest reserves, or jeopardize communities. The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners, which co-hosted the event where the remarks were made, defended the context of Gyamfi's statements, stating that the excerpt circulated from the meeting misrepresented the discussion about registering and regularizing eligible operators.

The Centre rejected the Minority's demand for Gyamfi's resignation, noting that their concerns did not account for the explanation provided. GoldBod reported exporting 85.4 tonnes of small-scale gold worth US$11.6 billion between January and October 2026, demonstrating the economic significance of the sector and the need to bolster official channels for gold trading.

The Centre highlighted GoldBod's support for anti-illegal-mining efforts and its funding for the restoration of 50 hectares in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, as well as its development of a traceability system to ensure gold's lawful origin. While acknowledging the need for effective implementation and scrutiny of these initiatives, the Centre advocated for continued support for GoldBod's reform agenda.

It urged the Minority to focus on assessing the implementation and results of the reforms instead of demanding Gyamfi's removal. The Centre also highlighted GoldBod's collaboration with the World Gold Council on formalization, traceability, and responsible processing, emphasizing efforts to align Ghana's domestic priorities with international best practices.

The Centre emphasized that Gyamfi should be allowed to continue leading the reforms, with his performance and the outcomes of the initiatives subject to public and parliamentary scrutiny.