Reforming Ghana’s Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining

Reforming Ghana’s Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining

Introduction Ghana’s artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector is a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, contributing significantly to gold production and livelihoods.  In 2018, ASGM accounted for 43.1% of Ghana’s total gold output, employing over 1 million people directly and supporting approximately 4.5 million more.  Despite its economic importance, the sector faces challenges, including environmental degradation, health risks from mercury use, and widespread informality, with over 85% of operations unlicensed.  Transforming this sector requires a dual approach: inclusive financing to empower miners economically and responsible mining practices to mitigate environmental and social impacts.  This article explores strategies to achieve this transformation, drawing on Ghana’s unique context and global best practices. The Current State of ASGM in Ghana ASGM in Ghana, often referred to locally as galamsey , is a vital economic activity, particularly in rural areas.  It generates signif…