Ghana Gold Board Opens Applications for New Jewellery and Refinery Licences
The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has officially opened the window for applications for Jewellery and Fabrication Licences—spanning Categories A, B, and C—as well as Refinery Licences, starting Wednesday, October 22, 2025. This initiative, GoldBod explained, is a key step in its broader mission to formalise the downstream gold value-addition sector, bolster regulatory compliance, and foster sustainable growth in accordance with the Ghana Gold Board Act, 2025 (Act 1140). Under the new legal framework, only individuals and businesses with valid GoldBod licences will be permitted to engage in gold trading, jewellery manufacturing, gold fabrication, and gold refining in Ghana. The Board cautioned that operating without the proper licence is now a criminal offence punishable by law. “All existing licences issued by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources for gold refining and fabrication are no longer valid under the current legal framework,” GoldBod clarified in its statement. In light of these changes, the Board has instructed all current jewellery manufacturers, fabricators, and refineries to regularise their operations by applying for the appropriate GoldBod licence before the firm deadline of December 31, 2025. Any entity found operating without a valid GoldBod licence after this date will face criminal sanctions. GoldBod has outlined four categories of licences: Jewellery & Fabrication Licence – Category A: For Ghanaian sole proprietor artisans and small-scale businesses fabricating jewellery and castings exclusively for local sale. Jewellery & Fabrication Licence – Category B: For fully Ghanaian-owned medium-sized companies fabricating for both local sale and export. Jewellery & Fabrication Licence – Category C: For large-scale companies, local or foreign, manufacturing jewellery and castings for local and international markets. Refinery Licence: For entities wishing to operate gold refineries in Ghana. Applications for all categories must be submitted exclusively online through the Board’s official website at www.goldbod.gov.ghOpens a new window. GoldBod’s move marks a new era for Ghana’s gold industry, aiming to ensure compliance, boost value addition, and protect the integrity of the precious metals sector. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
National Coalition on Mining Urges President Mahama to Show Political Courage in Galamsey Fight
The National Coalition on Mining (NCOM) has issued a strong call to President John Dramani Mahama, urging him to demonstrate unwavering political will in addressing Ghana’s persistent challenge of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey. The coalition’s statement follows a recent meeting between President Mahama and civil society organisations at the Jubilee House. According to NCOM, the success of any anti-galamsey initiative hinges on the President’s willingness to take decisive action against individuals within his government and the ruling NDC party who are allegedly complicit in illegal mining. “The key political question remains: Will President Mahama have the political courage to act against those in his government and the NDC who are known or rumoured to be galamsey kingpins and facilitators? That ultimately will be the touchstone for the success or failure of any anti-galamsey programme,” the coalition stated. While commending President Mahama’s renewed commitment to the fight, NCOM emphasised that galamsey is a deeply rooted national issue that cannot be resolved through military crackdowns or short-term interventions alone. The coalition urged the government to craft a comprehensive strategy addressing the social, economic, and institutional drivers behind illegal mining. “Galamsey is not just a law-and-order problem , it is deeply rooted in governance failures, poverty, and corruption,” NCOM noted, advocating for long-term investments in rural development, job creation, and reforms in the small-scale mining sector. NCOM also stressed the need for enhanced collaboration between the state, civil society, and local communities, pointing out that previous ad hoc operations have failed to deliver lasting results and, at times, led to human rights abuses and economic hardship. The coalition concluded that Ghana’s success in eliminating galamsey will depend not only on strong policies and enforcement, but on the political integrity and determination of its leadership to challenge vested interests benefiting from environmental destruction. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Small-Scale Gold Exports Generate Over US$8 Billion in 2025, Surging Past Previous Years
Ghana’s small-scale gold export sector has delivered a remarkable performance in 2025, generating more than US$8 billion in foreign exchange between January and October 15, according to newly released figures from the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) and the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC). GoldBod data shows that small-scale miners exported 81,719.23 kilograms of gold during the period, valued at US$8.06 billion. This represents a substantial leap from US$4.61 billion recorded in 2024 and nearly four times the US$2.19 billion achieved in 2023. The figures point to a consistent upward trajectory in both gold volume and export value over the past three years, highlighting the impact of improved regulation, greater transparency, and enhanced compliance within Ghana’s small-scale mining sector. Significant gains were logged in several months, notably May (US$1.17 billion), June (US$957.9 million), and April (US$897.6 million), underscoring an especially strong performance in the second quarter of the year. GoldBod credited its ongoing partnership with PMMC and tighter oversight of small-scale gold exports for the sector’s positive results. This collaboration has played a critical role in curbing illicit trade and ensuring that proceeds from gold sales are properly repatriated to benefit the Ghanaian economy. The surge in gold export earnings is expected to further strengthen Ghana’s foreign reserves and support the nation’s broader economic recovery efforts. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Bryan Acheampong Calls for 90-Day Suspension of All Mining to Restore Ghana’s Polluted Water Bodies
New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential hopeful, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has urged the government to declare a nationwide 90-day suspension of all mining activities in an effort to restore Ghana’s severely polluted water bodies. Speaking to the media on Wednesday, October 15, Dr. Acheampong emphasized the need for bold and decisive action to protect the country’s natural resources, even if it entails significant financial sacrifice. “Everybody should stop mining in this country. Regardless of the financial consequences, we have to agree that for the next 90 days, during the rainy season, we should stop mining,” he declared. Dr. Acheampong clarified that his call was not for a state of emergency, but for a national consensus that would give the environment a chance to recover. “Let’s clear our water bodies and then engage on how we go back to mining. I am not talking about a state of emergency, but mining, regardless of where, should stop now,” he said. He likened the situation to trying to fix a moving train, insisting that a total halt is necessary before any meaningful repairs can be made. “We cannot repair the tyre or the truck of a moving train. As long as it is speeding, we need to agree to stop,” he added. Dr. Acheampong’s proposal comes amid rising public alarm over the devastating impact of illegal mining—known locally as galamsey—on Ghana’s rivers, forests, and rural communities. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
National Security Warns Eastern Region Chiefs and Politicians: No Interference in Anti-Illegal Mining Operations
The National Security has issued a stern warning to chiefs, politicians, and opinion leaders in the Eastern Region, urging them to stay clear of the activities of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) as it launches its operations in the area. Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, October 13, Eastern Regional National Security Liaison Officer Francis Annor Dompreh cautioned that any traditional leader or politician who attempts to intervene or plead on behalf of individuals arrested for illegal mining will face arrest and prosecution themselves. “I keep emphasising, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat was put together by the President himself, and they report directly to the President and the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources. The directive is clear: Let the waters be blue, clean, and drinkable, as they used to be. Let the forests be green again, at least,” he stated. Mr. Annor Dompreh stressed that the authorities would not recognize any chief or influential figure seeking to shield illegal mining operations. “We don’t know any chief. We don’t know anybody. What we know is the order: Get out! That is why I’m making this press conference. If you know you are a chief or whoever, and you have machines on the rivers or in the forest, you should pack up and leave.” He further warned that no matter the time of day, anyone attempting to intervene in anti-illegal mining activities would be dealt with decisively. “Don’t come here again, don’t go near there, because you are not going to be allowed. Whether you come in the morning, you come in the afternoon, you come in the night, you will be dealt with.” Mr. Annor Dompreh reiterated that the directive from the Presidency is explicit and must be respected by everyone, regardless of their status in society. The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), established under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, is a special-purpose unit tasked with coordinating, monitoring, and leading intelligence-driven field operations against illegal mining (galamsey) activities across Ghana Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Tetretem Royal Family Accuses Tano North MCE of Fueling Galamsey on Stool Lands
The Tetretem Royal Family of Duayaw-Nkwanta has accused the Tano North Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of unlawfully issuing mining permits to illegal miners, sparking a surge in galamsey activities on the Duayaw-Nkwanta Stool Lands and resulting in significant environmental degradation. In a strongly worded statement issued by Nana Asamaa Kofi Ofori Adu, the royal family condemned the MCE’s actions as both unlawful and irresponsible. “The Tano North Municipal Assembly issued Business Operating Licences to CAKROB Limited without the consent of the Ghana Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency,” the statement alleged. The family further claimed that the MCE, together with some sub-chiefs,including Nana Boakye II and Nana Nsowaa Diawuo Kokroko, collaborated to allow foreigners to engage in illegal mining operations. “Chinese, Senegalese and Guinean nationals are actively involved in mining activities in Adagyamem,” the statement asserted. Recalling the era of the late Nana Blakey Tromo III, the family noted that illegal mining was non-existent and that “Newmont Mining Company was the only officially approved operator then.” Calling for urgent intervention, the royal family appealed to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and regional authorities to step in and restore order. “We are calling for Otumfuo’s intervention to prevent violence and restore sanity to the Duayaw-Nkwanta Traditional Area,” the statement concluded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NAiMOS Cracks Down on Illegal Miners in Cape Three Points Forest Reserve
In a decisive operation to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS) has conducted a successful security swoop in the Cape Three Points Forest Reserve, resulting in the arrest of several illegal miners and the destruction of mining equipment and narcotic substances. The operation, carried out in collaboration with security agencies and forestry officials, is part of the government’s intensified campaign against illegal mining (galamsey), which continues to threaten the nation’s water bodies, forests, and biodiversity. Security personnel moved swiftly to apprehend multiple suspects at various illegal mining sites hidden deep within the forest enclave. Officers also dismantled and destroyed a range of mining equipment, including changfang machines, water pumps, and excavators, to disrupt the illicit operations. In addition to the arrests and equipment destruction, a quantity of suspected narcotic substances was seized and destroyed on-site, highlighting the connection between illegal mining and other criminal activities. NAiMOS officials revealed that the coordinated operation was prompted by intelligence reports about a resurgence of illegal mining in the Cape Three Points area — a vital ecological zone renowned for its biodiversity and climate protection role. Following the raid, a NAiMOS spokesperson reaffirmed the Secretariat’s dedication to keeping Ghana’s protected areas free from environmental harm. He warned that the crackdown would be sustained and expanded to other hotspots, underlining a zero-tolerance approach toward illegal miners and their backers. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
NAiMOS Storms ‘Gangway’ in Major Crackdown on Illegal Mining and Crime in Western Region
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAiMOS) has unleashed a sweeping crackdown on “Gangway,” a notorious stronghold for illegal mining and criminal activity in Aboso, located within the Prestea-Huni Valley District of Ghana’s Western Region. In the early hours of Monday, October 5, 2025, a heavily armed NAiMOS Task Force stormed the enclave, tearing down makeshift shanties that had long served as safe havens for illegal miners, drug dealers, and gamblers. The coordinated raid sent thick plumes of smoke into the dawn sky as wooden structures and mining equipment were set ablaze. The shock of the operation rippled through the area, prompting many residents—allegedly involved in galamsey and other illicit trades—to surrender peacefully to authorities. Dozens reportedly handed themselves over without resistance. During the raid, operatives seized several parcels of hard drugs, including 11 wraps of Indian hemp, exposing the deep-rooted links between illegal mining and narcotics trafficking in the community’s underground economy. This decisive action follows an earlier warning in June 2025, when NAiMOS operatives cautioned illegal miners and criminal gangs to vacate the area. Despite repeated appeals from traditional authorities, including the Chiefs of Aboso, unlawful activities persisted, prompting this latest intervention. The crackdown didn’t end in Aboso. NAiMOS teams also extended their reach to the Dadwen-Dompim stretch in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality, where they seized or destroyed 15 water-pumping machines, a generator, and three Chanfangs used for illegal mining. Several unauthorized mining structures were also demolished. Officials from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources stated that this operation is part of the government’s intensified campaign to eradicate galamsey, reclaim degraded lands, and restore law and order across the Western Region. The successful raid stands as a powerful reaffirmation of NAiMOS’s resolve to dismantle illegal mining networks, disrupt criminal economies, and protect Ghana’s natural resources for future generations. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Dormaahene Rejects Calls for State of Emergency Over Galamsey
The President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs and Paramount Chief of Dormaa, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyeman Badu II, has dismissed calls for a state of emergency to be declared in response to illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey. Speaking shortly after being sworn in as a Justice of the Court of Appeal under his private name, His Lordship Daniel Mensah, the Dormaahene described the proposal as “unnecessary,” insisting that the situation was improving. His comments come as civil society organizations prepare to meet President John Dramani Mahama on Friday, October 3, 2025, where the galamsey menace is expected to top the agenda. While acknowledging that illegal mining has not been completely eradicated, the Dormaahene argued that measures rolled out by the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) government had significantly reduced water pollution and encroachment on forest reserves. “We should ensure that we nip this situation in the bud,” he urged. The Dormaahene also issued a stern warning to illegal miners operating in his traditional area, stressing that offenders would face a minimum of 15 years in prison if caught. He further appealed to chiefs and community leaders to wield their authority in the fight against galamsey, emphasizing that mining activities must be carried out responsibly to protect water bodies, cocoa farms, and Ghana’s natural heritage. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
UTAG Steps Up Pressure on Government to End Galamsey
The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has sounded a clarion call for urgent action against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, signaling a new phase in the nation’s efforts to protect its environment. The Association is preparing to roll out a series of initiatives designed to hold the government accountable and intensify the fight against the ongoing destruction of Ghana’s water bodies and forest reserves. Dr. Ivy Fiador, the newly elected President of UTAG, shared the Association’s concerns with the media, expressing deep worry about the consequences of unchecked galamsey operations. “Water is an essential thing, and that is what we drink. Now it may look like it is far away from us. In a few years, we are likely to be battling more diseases than we normally would. Already, as a nation, we are financially challenged,” she cautioned. Dr. Fiador acknowledged that while illegal mining may appear to provide employment opportunities, the long-term costs far outweigh the short-term benefits. “When you juxtapose the cost implication when you want to restore degraded lands or water, then you realise that the net present value is negative in the long run,” she noted, urging the country to look beyond immediate gains and consider the lasting impact on public health and the economy. UTAG’s upcoming measures aim to put sustained pressure on the government to act decisively, reflecting the Association’s belief that the future of Ghana’s environment and its people depends on immediate intervention. “Unchecked galamsey operations threaten not only public health but also the nation’s economic stability,” Dr. Fiador emphasized. As UTAG prepares to unveil its action plan, the national conversation on illegal mining continues to gather momentum. President John Dramani Mahama is set to meet with over 60 civil society organizations on Friday, October 3, to deliberate on strategies to end galamsey and secure Ghana’s environmental future. Source: Apexnewsgh.com