The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has disclosed that more than three million Ghanaians are legally engaged in small-scale mining, cementing the sector’s role as a major pillar of the national economy.
Speaking at a stakeholder meeting with Civil Society Organisations and members of the clergy on Friday, the minister noted that small-scale mining, once largely informal, has transformed into a dominant force in Ghana’s mineral production.
“Small-scale mining is the largest gold producer in Ghana. 52 percent of the gold in Ghana is produced by small-scale mining, while large-scale mining contributes 48%,” Mr. Buah said. “Mining is the lifeline for over three million Ghanaians, especially in rural communities.”
He explained that although small-scale mining historically relied on rudimentary tools such as hammers and chisels, the industry has evolved, with operators now employing heavy machinery, including excavators, to boost production.
The minister emphasized that the sector’s formalisation has not only created sustainable employment for millions but also contributed significantly to the country’s gold output, helping to strengthen local economies in mining communities.
Mr. Buah’s remarks underscore the government’s ongoing efforts to regulate the sector while ensuring its positive impact is maximized and its environmental footprint minimized.
