Hard rock miners declare support for Gold Board Bill

The Ghana National Association of Hard Rock Miners (GNARoM) says the establishment of the Ghana Gold Board is a progressive step towards sustainable mining and economic stability in the country.

It has consequently declared support for the Gold Board, saying it is the answer to maximising the country’s earnings from the precious metal.

At a news conference in Accra last Wednesday, the President of the GNARoM, Okofour Dr Twum Barimah V, said the Gold Board would streamline the operations of small-scale miners while positioning the country to fully harness the benefits of its mineral resources.

He explained that hard rock mining differed significantly from alluvial mining, with 90 to 95 per cent of operations conducted underground. 

Significance

The President of the association emphasised the economic potential of hard rock mining, stating that its global recognition stemmed from its similarity to medium and large-scale mining operations due to its complexity and capital-intensive nature.

He further explained that its activities would determine the data on the tonnage of gold that was accrued and exported by the country for revenue.

“Our mission is very simple and clear: To promote sustainable mining practices. We will work tirelessly with the Gold Board to develop policies that support small-scale mining and empower industry players,” he said.

Issues

Okofour Barimah V also highlighted the alignment of the association’s vision with the government’s 24-hour economy agenda, explaining that their system could absorb more labour by transitioning from small-scale to medium-scale mining operations.

He called for the reallocation of abandoned large-scale mining pits, which he said could be revived by hard rock miners to create thousands of legitimate jobs for the youth and former illegal miners.

Speaking on the issue of licence, he said the lack of licences and delays from regulatory bodies had driven many miners into illegal activities out of frustration.

“We’ve invested millions.

When the government halts licensing, it creates confusion.

We can’t pay loans, staff or taxes if we’re forced to stop work,” he said.

Commitment

The legal advisor to the association, Eric Offei, described the bill as progressive and forward-looking, stating that it would help the government manage foreign exchange volatility by ensuring the Gold Board had a steady supply of gold to buy and sell.

He gave an assurance that the association was committed to operating within the legal framework and had already begun engagements with key stakeholders, including the Precious Minerals Marketing Company and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.

Mr Offei also emphasised that the association’s operations differed significantly from illegal miners who destroyed water bodies and the environment.