The Government, through the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in collaboration with the Minerals Commission, has commenced a nationwide registration exercise for small-scale miners and artisanal mining groups. The initiative, which follows a successful pilot phase in the Western and Western North Regions, is aimed at formalising and regulating Ghana’s small-scale mining sector while promoting environmental responsibility and accountability. Authorities say the exercise is a major step toward bringing structure to an industry that provides livelihoods for millions of Ghanaians but has long struggled with issues of illegal operations and environmental degradation. As part of the programme, artisanal mining groups will be organised into legally recognised cooperatives to ensure compliance with national mining laws. Selected mining sites will also undergo detailed geological assessments to determine their mineral potential and economic viability. The registration process will be carried out through a structured four-phase system. Field teams will first collect data on cooperative members, including national identification and contact details. This will be followed by technical evaluations such as geological validation, terrain stability checks, and environmental risk assessments covering water usage, waste management, and ore processing practices. Qualified cooperatives will then be issued a six-month Temporary Operating Permit, allowing them to begin operations under strict supervision while working toward full licensing. Final documentation will subsequently be reviewed by rCOMSDEP and the Minerals Commission for approval. The exercise will further enable key regulatory institutions, including the Environmental Protection Agency and the Ghana Geological Survey Authority, to conduct inspections required for environmental clearances and mining licences. Officials emphasised that registered cooperatives will benefit from continuous technical support and monitoring to ensure adherence to environmental and operational standards under the Cabinet-approved rCOMSDEP policy framework. In addition, the registration is expected to create a verified national database of miners, enabling government to purchase gold through the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), thereby enhancing traceability and legitimacy within the supply chain. The programme is also relying on the support of traditional authorities and local government leaders to encourage participation and ensure smooth implementation across mining communities. All small-scale miners have been urged to cooperate fully with registration teams and provide the necessary documentation, as the initiative offers a pathway to legal recognition, improved operations, and sustainable participation in Ghana’s mining sector. The statement was issued by the National Coordinator of rCOMSDEP, Ama Mawusi Mawuenyefia.
