The Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in collaboration with the Minerals Commission, has officially commenced a nationwide registration exercise for all small-scale miners and mining groups.
The exercise, which was piloted in the Western and Western North Regions aims at formalizing and regulating the small-scale mining sector to bring structure, accountability, and environmental responsibility to an industry that supports millions of Ghanaians.
The registration exercise is designed to achieve three primary objectives, according to rCOMSDEP – ie Formalization of Artisanal Mining Groups into legally recognized cooperatives, ensuring full regulatory compliance and aligning their operations with national mining laws.
Selected sites will undergo a thorough geological evaluation to determine their mineral potential and economic viability, ensuring that registered cooperatives operate on concessions capable of sustaining productive activity.
The exercise will enable the Minerals Commission (MINCOM), Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), and the Ghana Geological Survey Authority (GGSA) to conduct necessary field inspections and assessments. This will trigger the formal processes required for the issuance of operating permits, including environmental clearances and mining licenses.
To ensure thoroughness and efficiency, the registration process will follow a structured four-phase workflow:
Field teams will capture comprehensive details of cooperative members, including National IDs and contact numbers.
Technical teams will conduct geological validation and terrain stability checks on proposed concessions. Environmental risk screening will assess water use, tailings management, and ore processing methods.
Following successful verification and assessment, all documentation will undergo final review by rCOMSDEP and the Minerals Commission. Qualified cooperatives will then be issued a six-month Temporary Operating Permit, allowing them to commence operations under close monitoring while working towards full licensing.
Registered cooperatives will receive continuous technical support and monitoring to ensure compliance with environmental standards and operational best practices as per the Cabinet-approved rCOMSDEP policy framework.
This exercise also enables Government to have access a verified database of registered miners and groups, from whom it will purchase gold, ensuring traceability and legitimacy in the supply chain.
The success of this initiative hinges on collaboration among key stakeholders, including the Traditional Authorities and Local Government Leaders.
All small-scale miners and artisanal mining groups operating across the country are urged to cooperate with registration officials and present the required documentation during the pilot phase. The exercise represents a unique opportunity to transition into the formal economy, gain legal recognition, and contribute to the sustainable development of Ghana’s mining sector.
