【Accra, Ghana】Ghana Prepares Reform of Artisanal Mining Sector and Asserts Leadership in Responsible Gold at Mining in Motion Webinar

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Editor’s Note

This article previews a major summit and policy initiative aimed at transforming Ghana’s artisanal mining sector. The proposed framework seeks to formalize small-scale operations, positioning them as a global benchmark for responsible gold production. The success of this ambitious plan could mark a significant turning point for the nation’s economy and environmental stewardship.

MIM Webinar
Ghana at a Crucial Inflection Point

The Ashanti Green Initiative (AGI) held a high-level virtual briefing on Wednesday to provide an exclusive preview of the Mining in Motion summit, scheduled for June 2-4, 2025, in Accra, Ghana. The webinar, led by mining governance expert Charles Kwarteng Antwi, presented an ambitious advocacy program to formalize Ghana’s Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) sector, aiming to establish it as a pillar of responsible gold production globally.

“Today’s discussion goes beyond the issue of gold – it’s about people, progress, and possibilities. We are here to explore how innovation, responsibility, and collective will can transform the artisanal mining sector into a positive force,” said Charles in his opening remarks.

Ghana, which produces over 130 tons of gold annually – 35% of which comes from ASM – is at a crucial inflection point. While the artisanal sector supports the livelihoods of over 1.1 million people across more than 100 districts, it remains largely informal, limiting miners’ access to financing, safety standards, and global markets.

“The paradox is evident: although ASM generates over $2 billion per year in gold exports, the actors in this sector remain marginalized in the value chain,” stated Charles. “The solution lies in formalization – not as a tool for sanction, but as a lever for empowerment.”
Upcoming Summit and International Collaboration

The Mining in Motion summit, organized by AGI in collaboration with the World Bank, the World Gold Council, and other international partners, will bring together leaders from the public and private sectors, development organizations, and traditional authorities. Key participants include H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of Ghana, as well as delegations from South Africa, Mali, Côte d’Ivoire, ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The event will include visits to artisanal mining sites undergoing rehabilitation, as well as a three-day program of panels and working groups on responsible sourcing, traceability, formalization strategies, and compliance with ESG standards.

“This is where Africa asserts its place in the global gold economy – not just as an exporter, but as a reference point, an innovator, and a catalyst in this field,” added Charles.
Compliance, Investment, and a Long-Term Vision

He also emphasized the importance of compliance with international standards such as the OECD Due Diligence Guidelines, the LBMA’s Responsible Gold Standards, and the UAE Good Delivery Standard. However, implementation requires investment and infrastructure.

“Establishing a compliance infrastructure has a cost: miners need training, cooperatives must be officially recognized, certification requires laboratories, logistics, and digital systems. That’s why AGI is calling for international investment to ensure the desired growth and outcomes,” said Charles.

AGI’s long-term vision is to make Ghana a global leader in gold traceability by 2030.

“We aspire for Ghanaian gold to be fully traceable, from mine to market, produced with respect for human rights and the environment, recognized globally but rooted locally – a tool not only for export but for national and continental economic empowerment.”

The webinar concluded with a message of shared hope and collective responsibility.

“Ghana’s gold should not only generate profit. It must fund schools, health centers, the restoration of rivers and forests, and help create sustainable and prosperous communities.”
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⏰ Published on: April 24, 2025