Ghana Launches Comprehensive Plan to Tackle Illegal Mining
The government has unveiled a bold strategy to combat the menace of illegal mining, which threatens the country’s environmental sustainability, economic prosperity, and national security.
Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Yusif Sulemana, announced the plan at a national dialogue on violence and extremism in mining communities, emphasizing the government’s commitment to addressing the issue.
The Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Program aims to involve all stakeholders, including chiefs, assembly members, and community leaders, in addressing the challenges faced by mining communities.
“Our goal is to transform illegal miners from adversaries to partners by providing training, technology, and alternative economic opportunities,” Sulemana said.
The program is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable mining practices and reduce the environmental impact of mining.
Ghana’s gold exports reached $8.3 billion in the first half of 2025, making it the highest half-year total in 2016. However, the country’s mining sector is plagued by illegal mining, which undermines environmental sustainability and poses health risks to local communities.
The government has launched initiatives to address these challenges, including the National Framework for Preventing/Countering Violent Extremism and Terrorism.
The framework involves a multi-agency approach, including civil society organizations, to prevent and counter violent extremism.
The government is also introducing new legislation that will mandate mining companies to consult local communities to determine their actual needs, moving beyond cosmetic projects to meaningful community development.
Technological innovation is also key to the government’s strategy. The government is working with the Geological Survey Department to provide small-scale miners with precise mineral concentration technologies, reducing the use of harmful substances like mercury and cyanide.
Chiefs are now being integrated into the solution, ensuring they are active participants in mining concession approvals and benefit directly from responsible mining practices.
The University of Ghana is contributing to the effort through an anti-galamsey research project, bringing academic rigor to community-centered solutions.
As Ghana stands at this critical juncture, the national dialogue represents a pivotal moment of national reflection, where economic ambition meets environmental responsibility, and where sustainable development is not just a goal, but a necessity.
