No miner will operate in a district without prior approval from a local committee when working outside their own district. Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, announced this new regulation on June 8, 2026.
This move is part of the government's strategy to intensify the fight against illegal mining, known as 'galamsey'. The new arrangement ensures local communities play a central role in decisions about mining activities. Prospective miners must first secure a recommendation from a District Mining Committee before obtaining permits from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Minerals Commission.
This initiative fits into Ghana’s broader effort to formalise the small-scale mining sector and improve environmental compliance. Illegal mining has caused significant environmental damage, including pollution of water bodies and land degradation. The Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) is a key part of this strategy. This programme provides training, certification, and modern equipment to help miners operate responsibly. The government seeks to increase Ghanaian participation in the mining sector and create sustainable livelihoods.
Minister Armah-Kofi Buah emphasized that rCOMSDEP offers a practical alternative to illegal mining. He stated that modern equipment could help miners recover up to 98% of minerals, significantly improving their earnings. He also revealed President John Dramani Mahama fully supports increased Ghanaian involvement in mining. The Minister has directed the EPA and the Minerals Commission to facilitate certification for trained individuals.
The government aims to roll out rCOMSDEP across the country after its initial launch in Birim North. This district is important as one of Ghana's major mining areas. Participating communities will also benefit from a development fund financed by mining proceeds. This fund will support community development projects, ensuring local people benefit directly from mineral extraction. The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, praised the initiative. She said it would help reduce unemployment and formalise small-scale mining. The National Coordinator of rCOMSDEP, Ama Mawusi Mawuenyefia, confirmed that some Birim North residents have already begun training.
Traditional leaders, like Oseadeeyo Dr Frimpong Manso IV, Paramount Chief of the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area, welcomed rCOMSDEP. He described it as a timely intervention to transform livelihoods and promote responsible mining. This new regulatory framework signals a stronger government hand in managing Ghana's valuable mineral resources. It aims to balance economic gains with environmental protection and community benefits. Businesses and investors in the mining sector will need to adapt to these enhanced local approval processes. The success of these measures will depend on effective enforcement and sustained community engagement.