Ghana begins nationwide registration of small-scale miners to formalise sector
Ghana has begun a nationwide registration exercise targeting small-scale miners and artisanal mining groups, in a move aimed at bringing greater structure and oversight to a sector that remains a major source of livelihoods.
The initiative, led by the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in collaboration with the Minerals Commission, follows a pilot phase in the Western and Western North regions.
According to a statement signed by Ama Mawusi Mawuenyefia, national coordinator of rCOMSDEP, the programme seeks to formalise informal mining groups into legally recognised cooperatives, ensuring compliance with Ghana’s mining regulations.
A central component of the exercise involves assessing the viability of mining sites. Selected concessions will undergo geological evaluation to determine mineral potential and economic sustainability, with the aim of ensuring that registered groups operate on productive and regulated grounds.
Structured registration process
The registration will be conducted through a four-phase process designed to improve transparency and accountability.
Field teams will first collect detailed information on cooperative members, including national identification and contact details. This will be followed by technical assessments covering geological validation, terrain stability and environmental risk factors such as water use and waste management.
Eligible groups will then be issued a six-month temporary operating permit, allowing them to begin work under supervision while progressing towards full licensing. Final approvals will be subject to review by rCOMSDEP and the Minerals Commission.
The process is expected to involve key regulatory bodies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (Ghana) and the Ghana Geological Survey Authority, which will conduct inspections required for environmental permits and mining licences.
Toward traceability and compliance
Officials say the exercise will also create a verified national database of miners, enabling the government to strengthen oversight and improve traceability in gold production.
Gold purchased through the Ghana Gold Board is expected to come from registered operators, helping to formalise the supply chain and reduce illegal activity.
Registered cooperatives will receive ongoing technical support to meet environmental standards and adopt improved operational practices under the rCOMSDEP policy framework.
Stakeholder engagement
Authorities say collaboration with traditional leaders and local government officials will be critical to ensuring participation and smooth implementation across mining communities.
Miners are being encouraged to engage with registration teams and provide the required documentation as the exercise is rolled out nationwide.
The programme is being presented as an opportunity for informal operators to gain legal recognition, improve access to support services and transition into the formal economy, while contributing to more sustainable management of Ghana’s mineral resources.
