The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has secured strong community support for its responsible mining support program in the Ashanti Region. GoldBod will fund a major geological survey by the Ghana Geological Survey Authority, committing an estimated GHS 12 million to the effort.
This funding will identify mineral-rich zones in the Amansie Central and Adansi North Districts of the Ashanti Region. The project aims to support small-scale mining, create jobs, and promote responsible mineral development. It comes as a direct response to previous community attempts to secure private support, which often failed.
This initiative aligns with GoldBod's broader strategy to reinvest up to 30% of its surplus into mining operations. It primarily targets the licensed artisanal and small-scale mining sector, which supplies the majority of Ghana's gold. The government's vision under President John Dramani Mahama prioritizes such cooperative mining efforts.
Local assembly members and chiefs have expressed strong commitment to the project. They view it as a practical step towards empowering local miners while ensuring responsible practices. Nana Kusi Frimpong Kotobiri II, Chief of Biribiwomanmu, welcomed the initiative. He noted that past community-led mining ventures suffered significant financial losses due to a lack of technical and institutional support.
GoldBod plans to provide mining equipment, technical support, and guaranteed market access. This will ensure responsible and sustainable mining activities. The Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, commended GoldBod and the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA) for championing responsible mining. He stressed the importance of land reclamation and corporate social responsibility within the project.
This program builds on GoldBod's consistent strategy to formalise the small-scale mining sector. It aims to improve livelihoods and strengthen responsible gold production nationwide. By combining geological data, technical assistance, and structured market access, GoldBod believes communities can transition from informal operations to sustainable economic ventures.
The project will specifically benefit communities such as Adomanu, Abedwum, Odumase, Akrukeri, Achiase, and Biribiwomanmu. This government-backed approach offers hope for structured cooperative mining, a long-standing aspiration for the region. Ensuring local participation and oversight will be crucial for its long-term success.