Gov’t Launches Nationwide Registration of Small-Scale Miners Under rCOMSDEP
The Government of Ghana, through the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP), has officially commenced a nationwide registration exercise for all small-scale miners and mining groups. This initiative aims to formalize and regulate the small-scale mining sector, bringing structure, accountability, and environmental responsibility to an industry that provides livelihoods for millions of Ghanaians.
The registration exercise, which follows a successful pilot phase in the Western and Western North Regions, is designed to ensure that artisanal mining groups operate in compliance with regulatory frameworks and national mining laws. According to Ama Mawusi Mawuenyefia, National Coordinator of rCOMSDEP, the programme seeks to formalize artisanal mining groups into legally recognized cooperatives, ensuring full compliance with regulatory frameworks and alignment with national mining laws.
The registration process will follow a structured four-phase workflow, beginning with the capture of comprehensive details of cooperative members, including National Identification and contact numbers. Technical teams will then conduct geological validation and terrain stability checks on proposed concessions, alongside environmental risk screening to assess water use, tailings management, and ore processing methods.
Qualified cooperatives will be issued a six-month Temporary Operating Permit, allowing them to commence operations under close monitoring while working toward full licensing. The exercise will enable the Minerals Commission, the Environmental Protection Authority, and the Ghana Geological Survey Authority to conduct necessary field inspections and assessments, triggering the formal processes required for the issuance of operating permits, including environmental clearances and mining licenses.
Similarly, the registration exercise for small-scale miners is expected to bring much-needed transparency and accountability to the sector.
Registered cooperatives will receive continuous technical support and monitoring to ensure compliance with environmental standards and operational best practices. The exercise will also provide the Government with access to a verified database of registered miners and groups, from whom it will purchase gold through the Ghana Goldbod, ensuring traceability and legitimacy in the supply chain.
The success of this initiative hinges on collaboration among key stakeholders, including Traditional Authorities and Local Government Leaders. Their support is crucial in encouraging participation and ensuring the smooth implementation of the programme across all mining communities.
All small-scale miners and artisanal mining groups operating throughout the country are urged to cooperate with registration officials and present the required documentation during this phase. The exercise represents a unique opportunity to transition into the formal economy, gain legal recognition, and contribute to the sustainable development of Ghana’s mining sector.
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Honourable Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that it will help to curb illegal mining and promote sustainable mining practices. The registration exercise is expected to last for several months, and all stakeholders are encouraged to participate and support the efforts of the government to formalize the small-scale mining sector.
This initiative is part of the government’s efforts to promote transparency and accountability in the mining sector, and to ensure that Ghana’s mineral resources benefit the country and its people. The rCOMSDEP programme is a key component of the government’s strategy to develop the mining sector and promote sustainable economic growth.
The nationwide registration exercise is being carried out in collaboration with the Minerals Commission, and is expected to cover all regions of the country where small-scale mining activities are prevalent. The exercise is free, and all registered miners will be issued with a unique identification number and a certificate of registration.
The government has urged all small-scale miners to take advantage of this opportunity to formalize their operations and contribute to the development of the country. The registration exercise is expected to boost revenue mobilization for the government, and to promote sustainable mining practices in Ghana.
Overall, the nationwide registration exercise for small-scale miners is a significant step towards formalizing the sector and promoting transparency and accountability in the mining industry. It is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of millions of Ghanaians who depend on small-scale mining for their livelihoods.
