GoldBod rejects galamsey claims, says gold is purchased handiest thru approved channels – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) has issued a strong rebuttal to recent allegations linking it to illegal gold mining activities, commonly known as galamsey in Ghana. In a detailed statement released on January 5, 2026, GoldBod clarified that it only purchases gold through licensed and approved channels, emphasizing its commitment to transparency and legal compliance. This article explores the context of these allegations, GoldBod’s operational framework, and the broader implications for Ghana’s gold sector.

Key Points

Background

The Galamsey Challenge in Ghana

Ghana has long struggled with illegal small-scale gold mining, locally referred to as galamsey. This practice not only violates environmental regulations but also undermines the formal mining sector and national revenue collection. The government has intensified efforts to curb these activities, establishing the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) to lead enforcement actions.

The Role of GoldBod

Established under Act 1140, the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) is a public corporation mandated to formalize small-scale mining, promote responsible sourcing, and ensure sustainable supply chains. Its creation marked a significant step towards addressing the systemic issues within Ghana’s gold sector, including lack of traceability and regulatory oversight.

Analysis

GoldBod’s Licensing Framework

GoldBod operates under a strict licensing regime that prohibits its licensees from sourcing gold from illegal mining operations. Section 3(1)(f) of Act 1140 explicitly mandates the board to promote formalization of small-scale mining through responsible sourcing and compliance with cross-border requirements. Additionally, Section 3(1)(g) requires the promotion of environmentally responsible mining practices.

Blockchain Traceability System

In a move to strengthen transparency, GoldBod is developing a blockchain-based track-and-trace system. This technology will enable the board to verify the origin of every gram of gold purchased through its licensed consumers. The system, expected to be operational by 2026, will be implemented following a competitive procurement process. This initiative represents a significant advancement in ensuring full value-chain traceability within the gold sector.

Government Enforcement Actions

The Ghanaian government has undertaken several measures to combat illegal mining, including the eviction of illegal miners from nine forest reserves and the revocation of Legislative Instrument 2462, which had authorized mining in forest reserves. Additional actions include restrictions on excavator imports and ongoing arrests and prosecutions of individuals involved in illegal mining activities.

Practical Advice

For Stakeholders in the Gold Sector

Stakeholders in Ghana’s gold sector should prioritize compliance with GoldBod’s licensing requirements and support the implementation of the blockchain traceability system. Engaging with licensed aggregators and adhering to responsible sourcing practices will not only ensure legal compliance but also enhance the sector’s reputation and sustainability.

For Consumers and Investors

Consumers and investors seeking ethically sourced gold should verify that their suppliers are licensed by GoldBod and participate in the traceability program. This ensures that the gold they purchase supports responsible mining practices and contributes to the formalization of the sector.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Ghana Gold Board’s firm denial of allegations linking it to illegal gold mining underscores its commitment to transparency and legal compliance. By sourcing gold exclusively through licensed aggregators and developing a blockchain-based traceability system, GoldBod is taking significant steps towards formalizing Ghana’s gold sector. These efforts, combined with ongoing government enforcement actions, represent a comprehensive approach to combating illegal mining and promoting sustainable practices. As the sector moves towards full value-chain traceability, stakeholders, consumers, and investors must support these initiatives to ensure the long-term sustainability and integrity of Ghana’s gold industry.

Sources

• MyJoyOnline
• Act 1140 of the Parliament of Ghana
• National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS)
• Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) Official Website