Deputy Minister rallies support to reform small-scale mining
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Yusif Sulemana, has urged stronger collaboration among government, small-scale miners, financial institutions and investors to transform Ghana’s small-scale mining sector into a modernised, environmentally sustainable and economically viable industry.
Speaking at the Mining and Minerals Convention held at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, Mr Sulemana reaffirmed government’s commitment to positioning itself as a partner rather than a regulator alone.
He stressed that small-scale mining, if properly structured, can create jobs, generate wealth and contribute significantly to national development.
“To our small-scale miners, the government is your partner. Let us work together to make small-scale mining a proud, legal and environmentally sustainable profession,” Mr Sulemana said.
The Deputy Minister highlighted the sector’s dual reality: while it provides livelihoods for thousands across Ghana, illegal practices, environmental degradation and unsafe working conditions continue to undermine its reputation and long-term sustainability.
Mr Sulemana called for a united front to confront these challenges, adding that government interventions alone would not be sufficient without the active participation of miners, communities, financiers and investors.
“To the financiers and technological investors: your capital and your creativity are the fuel for this transformation. Invest in our processing facilities and refineries, and help us build a modern, sustainable industry of the future,” he urged.
According to Mr Sulemana, financial institutions must design products tailored to the unique needs of small-scale miners, while investors should support innovations in processing, refining and mechanisation to ensure the sector moves away from outdated and environmentally harmful practices.
He also noted that the government has rolled out several policy frameworks, including the Community Mining Scheme and efforts to formalise artisanal miners, to integrate them into the mainstream economy and promote responsible mining practices.
Industry experts at the convention echoed the Deputy Minister’s sentiments, stressing that the success of Ghana’s small-scale mining industry depends on creating an enabling environment where miners are empowered with access to capital, training and technology, while being held accountable for environmental protection and safety standards.
The call for collaboration, Mr Sulemana said, was not only about safeguarding the environment but also about ensuring that Ghana captures greater value from its natural resources, strengthens local economies and secures a future where small-scale mining contributes meaningfully to sustainable national growth.
