GoldBod engages UMaT on proposed ASM formalisation and financing programme for 2027
Story by: Regina Bless
The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has engaged the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) as part of stakeholder consultations on a proposed Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) Formalisation and Financing Support Programme scheduled for implementation in 2027.
The engagement was led by GoldBod’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Richard Nunekpeku, Esq., while the UMaT delegation was headed by its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bernard Kumi-Boateng.
During the meeting, Mr Nunekpeku explained that the proposed programme forms part of a broader government intervention aimed at formalising artisanal and small-scale mining operations, improving access to structured financing and promoting responsible mining practices.
He stressed the importance of gathering technical expertise and stakeholder input to strengthen the programme ahead of its consideration by Cabinet and Parliament.
Professor Kumi-Boateng, on his part, pledged UMaT’s technical expertise to support the initiative, highlighting the university’s role in providing knowledge and professional guidance to advance responsible mining practices.
The proposed programme seeks to address challenges within the artisanal and small-scale mining sector by promoting formal operations and creating access to more structured financing arrangements.
Further consultations are expected to involve key institutions, including the Minerals Commission, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and the Water Resources Commission, alongside other relevant stakeholders.
The ongoing engagements are intended to gather technical recommendations and institutional perspectives to help shape the programme before the proposed 2027 implementation.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen the regulation of artisanal and small-scale mining while encouraging responsible practices and improving the sector’s contribution to Ghana’s economy.