Ghana launches Responsible Cooperative Mining programme to curb illegal gold mining

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, led by Hon. Emmanuel Armah‑Kofi Buah, inaugurated the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in Akyem Kotoku, Eastern Region. The pilot trains local youth – about 500 participants – in certified, eco‑conscious mining methods and pairs formal cooperatives with traditional authorities, including Paramount Chief Oseadeeyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV, to replace illegal “galamsey” mining and reduce river and soil contamination.

District Chief Executive Antwi Hakeem Abdul of Birim North praised the initiative, urging that mining progress must protect water and farmland and emphasizing that “we cannot eat gold, but we can drink clean water.” He pledged strict enforcement of mining bylaws and collaboration with traditional leaders to safeguard communities.

Former parliamentary Energy and Mines Committee chair Kwabena Donkor called for a restructuring of Ghana’s mining sector, proposing a revived State Gold Mining Corporation that would retain state ownership of mineral assets while private Ghanaian firms handle operations. He argues the model would keep more value in Ghana, citing foreign dividend outflows from mines such as Tarkwa.

Together, the programme and the proposed ownership model aim to formalise artisanal mining, protect the environment, and increase national benefit from Ghana’s mineral wealth.