Every gram will be tracked – Gold Board unveils traceability push to deal with illegally-mined gold

The Chief Executive Officer of the Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi, has announced a comprehensive set of measures aimed at ensuring that all small-scale gold purchases in Ghana are fully traceable and responsibly sourced. The initiative forms part of a broader effort to strengthen oversight in the gold sector, improve transparency, and align Ghana’s mining practices with international standards.

Speaking on PM Express Business Edition on Joy News, Mr. Gyamfi explained that the strategy is built on three key pillars: strict licensing, robust enforcement, and the implementation of a nationwide traceability system.

He emphasized that responsible sourcing remains central to the Gold Board’s policy direction, noting that clear guidelines are already available to stakeholders. According to him, the first step in achieving accountability has been the formalisation of gold trading activities across the country.

Mr. Gyamfi stated that only individuals and entities issued with a valid Gold Board license are permitted to purchase gold on behalf of the Board. This licensing system, he explained, provides a legal framework that enables the Board to regulate and monitor gold buyers effectively.

He further clarified that each license comes with strict terms and conditions, including the requirement that licensed buyers source gold exclusively from legally recognized and licensed miners. This measure is intended to eliminate illegal sourcing and promote compliance within the small-scale mining sector.

Highlighting the legal implications of non-compliance, Mr. Gyamfi referenced provisions under the Gold Board Act, stating that any breach of licensing conditions constitutes a criminal offense. He stressed that offenders risk prosecution if found purchasing gold from unlicensed miners, underscoring the Board’s commitment to enforcement as a deterrent.

Beyond regulatory controls, the Gold Board is also investing in systems designed to verify the origin of gold. Mr. Gyamfi revealed that a traceability framework is currently being developed to ensure that every gram of gold acquired by the Board can be tracked back to a responsible source. This goes beyond verifying licensing status to ensuring that gold is mined in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.

As part of the broader reform agenda, he disclosed plans to expand the formalisation of the artisanal and small-scale mining sector. This includes collaboration with the Ministry for Lands and Natural Resources to integrate more miners into cooperative mining schemes and the mainstream licensed small-scale mining system.

The formalisation programme, which is expected to bring structure and legitimacy to previously informal operations, is nearing completion. Mr. Gyamfi indicated that it will soon be officially launched, with the involvement of the President, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s efforts to reform its gold sector.

He concluded by noting that work on the traceability solution is already underway, signaling the government’s determination to ensure transparency, accountability, and sustainability in gold production and trade.