The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has intensified efforts to strengthen the country’s gold value chain through renewed engagement with small-scale miners, targeting inefficiencies and revenue leakages within the sector.
At a high-level meeting, Chief Executive Officer, Sammy Gyamfi, engaged leadership of the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners and the Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana to address operational challenges and improve transparency in gold production.
Gold Purity Losses Under Scrutiny
A major concern raised during the discussions was the persistent loss of gold purity along the production chain—an issue stakeholders say is significantly eroding returns.
Mr. Gyamfi described the situation as one of the most pressing challenges confronting Ghana’s gold trade, stressing the need for closer collaboration between regulators and miners to curb inefficiencies and improve output quality.
Expanded Support for Small-Scale Miners
Reaffirming GoldBod’s commitment to the sector, the CEO disclosed that up to 30 percent of the Board’s surplus has been earmarked to support small-scale mining operations.
He urged the associations to submit a comprehensive framework to guide the structured rollout of support programmes, including improved access to financing, modern equipment, and technical expertise.
Clampdown on Illegal Mining
Beyond productivity concerns, GoldBod is also ramping up efforts to tackle illegal mining. As part of this initiative, the Board is in the process of acquiring patrol boats to help remove unauthorised miners from the country’s water bodies.
The move forms part of a broader strategy to formalise the small-scale mining sector, promote responsible practices, and maximise the economic benefits of Ghana’s gold resources.
Renewed Focus on a Critical Sector
Small-scale mining remains a vital component of Ghana’s gold industry, contributing significantly to both production and employment. GoldBod’s latest engagement signals a renewed push to introduce greater structure, accountability, and sustainability across the sector.
With deeper collaboration between regulators and miners, stakeholders are optimistic about improved efficiency, reduced losses, and stronger contributions to national development.
