GoldBod Begins Consultations on 2027 Small-Scale Mining Formalisation Programme

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has commenced stakeholder consultations on a proposed Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) Formalisation and Financing Support Programme aimed at strengthening the regulation, sustainability and responsible development of Ghana’s small-scale mining sector ahead of its planned implementation in 2027.

The consultations, led by GoldBod’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Richard Nunekpeku, Esq., brought together representatives of key mining and gold-trading associations to discuss the proposed programme and gather industry input before it proceeds for Cabinet and parliamentary consideration.

Participants included the Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM), Concerned Small-Scale Miners, Hard Rock and Underground Miners, the Ghana National Association of Gold Traders and the Chamber of Gold Buyers.

The proposed Formalisation and Financing Support Programme (FFSP) seeks to establish a structured framework for formalising artisanal and small-scale mining operations while providing financing support to improve the organisation and sustainability of the sector.

Mr. Nunekpeku emphasised the importance of stakeholder participation in shaping the programme, noting that input from miners and other industry players would help inform its development before the necessary policy and legislative processes.

GoldBod’s Director for Responsible Mining and Sustainability, Professor Ishmael Quaicoe, outlined the proposed policy framework and its key components, providing participants with an overview of the programme’s objectives and approach.

The initiative aligns with GoldBod’s statutory mandate under Section 2(f) of the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140), which requires the Board to promote the formalisation of the small-scale mining industry through responsible gold sourcing, sustainable supply chains, traceability and adherence to international best practices.

Formalisation is central to efforts to strengthen accountability across the gold supply chain, improve responsible sourcing and ensure that small-scale mining activities operate within an organised and traceable system.

GoldBod indicated that consultations would continue with other relevant institutions, including the Minerals Commission, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), the Environmental Protection Authority and the Water Resources Commission.

The ongoing engagements are expected to help refine the proposed framework and incorporate stakeholder perspectives as GoldBod prepares for the programme’s planned implementation in 2027.