In a speech delivered at the University of Professional Studies in Accra on February 7, 2024, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, outlined his comprehensive vision for Ghana’s mining sector. With a focus on effective regulation, support for small-scale miners, and environmental protection, Dr. Bawumia emphasised the importance of transitioning these miners towards responsible mining practices.
Highlighting the significant number of Ghanaians involved in small-scale mining, estimated at around one million individuals, Dr. Bawumia stressed the need to help these miners grow into large-scale companies through capacity building and access to financing for equipment. This approach not only aims to create more wealth but also contributes to environmental conservation efforts.
To formalize the Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) sector, Dr. Bawumia announced that his government will support the Minerals Commission and key stakeholders. The objective is to ensure that the entire value chain conducts its activities sustainably and responsibly, enabling the sector to sell most of the gold produced to the Bank of Ghana (BoG) and integrate it into the Central Bank’s gold reserves.
As part of the registration process, every Ghanaian engaged in small-scale mining will be required to register with the Ghana Small Scale Miners Association using their Ghana Card, according to Dr. Bawumia. Additionally, abandoned shafts will be converted into community mining schemes, and new community mining schemes will be opened in collaboration with large mining companies.
Dr. Bawumia’s comprehensive vision for Ghana’s mining sector aims to promote responsible and sustainable mining practices while supporting the growth of small-scale mining companies. With a focus on environmental protection and wealth creation, this vision sets the stage for a thriving and regulated mining industry in Ghana.
About The Author
