The Ghana Gold Board, in collaboration with Gold Coast Refinery, has officially commenced the local refining of gold sourced from the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector. The initiative marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to add value to its mineral resources while formalising the ASM industry.
A high-level tour of the refinery was conducted by the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, alongside the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi, Esq. The visit underscored government’s commitment to ensuring that gold produced by small-scale miners is refined locally to international standards, with full traceability.
According to officials, the move is expected to generate employment opportunities, enhance transparency in the gold value chain, and strengthen Ghana’s position as a hub for responsible gold production in Africa. By refining ASM gold domestically, the country aims to capture greater economic benefits and reduce reliance on external processing.
Dr. Forson described the development as a “major milestone” in Ghana’s mining sector, noting that it aligns with government’s broader agenda of industrialisation and value addition. He emphasised that the initiative would not only boost revenue but also ensure that artisanal miners are integrated into the formal economy.
The partnership between the Ghana Gold Board and Gold Coast Refinery is seen as a strategic intervention to modernise the ASM sector, which employs thousands across the country. With international-standard refining now underway, Ghana is poised to strengthen its reputation for responsibly sourced gold while creating new avenues for growth and prosperity.
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