The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi, has reiterated the institution’s unwavering commitment to combating illegal mining and ensuring sustainable practices in Ghana’s gold sector.

Speaking on TV3’s Key Points program, Gyamfi emphasised that environmental protection is central to GoldBod’s mandate, and the agency is taking concrete steps to enforce it.

“When we took over, there was no real fight against illegal mining. We did not maintain the status quo, highlighting the proactive measures already implemented,” he said.

He noted that Legislative Instruments 23 and 24, which previously permitted certain mining activities in protected areas, have been revoked.

“Mining is no longer permissible in forest reserves, and NAIMOS is actively cracking down on illegal miners everywhere. You have seen the videos,” he added.

Goldbod to fully take over gold trading and reserves in 2026

Gyamfi stressed that GoldBod has institutionalized environmental protection by making it illegal to purchase gold sourced from unauthorized mining activities.

He explained that under Section 59 of the GoldBod Act, any purchase of gold from illegal mining operations constitutes an offense.

The CEO also addressed criticisms about the pace of implementing traceability measures.

While Ghana has a long history of gold procurement dating back to colonial times, he believes the introduction of a national traceability program is a landmark initiative.

“We have given timelines for the traceability program to be fully operational. Every gram of gold bought by the state will be traceable to its mine of origin, and it must come from a sustainable mine,” he explained.

He noted the challenges posed by decades of unregulated gold trading and smuggling, which have historically undermined both the environment and the national economy.

“Our approach balances economic benefits with environmental responsibility, ensuring that Ghana’s gold sector contributes to development without compromising our natural heritage.”

SP/EB

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