Stakeholders Embrace Mercury-Free Technologies in Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining Sector

Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) has long grappled with the use of mercury in gold processing. While mercury has traditionally been utilized to extract gold from ore due to its effectiveness, its toxic properties pose serious risks to human health and the environment.

In response to this concern, the EPA through the GEF-funded planetGOLD Ghana project is implementing initiatives to promote transition to mercury-free technologies in the ASGM sector.  These initiatives are anchored in Ghana’s commitments under the Minamata Convention. 

The project organized series of engagements with key stakeholders and ASGM value chain actors in Prestea Huni Valley and Wassa Amenfi West project districts to foster understanding, establish partnerships and deepen existing collaboration.

Addressing the dialogue sessions, Mr. Lovelace Sarpong, the Project Coordinator, said it is imperative to prioritize the development of a sustainable community of practice for ASGM through multi-stakeholder partnerships. These partnerships, he said, will support the uptake of mercury-free technologies, promote responsible mining for the protection of public health and the environment.

Touching on the planetGOLD Ghana project, he said the project aims at a significant reduction and possible elimination of mercury use in ASGM through cleaner mining practices and the adoption of mercury-free technologies in the sector. Mr. Sarpong added that the project will promote financial inclusion and strengthen national and jurisdictional capacity to enhance Ghana's compliance with the Minamata Convention. 

He affirmed that, the project would build capacity of mining entities particularly on the CRAFT Code (The Code of Risk mitigation for ASM engaging in Formal Trade) to enhance their participation in and access to the international gold market. 

Mr. sarpong underscored the importance of mainstreaming gender in all project activities. He said the project will contribute to empowering women and promoting gender equality in ASGM, as these are vital components of responsible mining practices. Adding that, the project would seek to address the specific needs and contributions of women to enhance social license, inclusiveness and contribute to sustainable outcomes for communities and the environment, particularly in the pilot districts.

The Project Coordinator, emphasized that, the project will work with value chain actors and stakeholders, especially the media to change the narrative around ASGM, improve public perception with the view to attract the much-needed national policy support, enhance investor confidence and access to finance by miners. 

Senior government officials and community leaders who also spoke at the dialogue sessions embraced the project and expressed their commitment to its implementation, recognizing its potential to further sustainable ASGM practices within the pilot districts.

Participants at the workshops comprised key figures such as the Municipal Chief Executive, Coordinating Directors, members of the District Mining Committees, Traditional Authorities, senior local government officials, and representatives from local and regional financial institutions. Additionally, various key institutional stakeholders participated, including the Water Resources Commission, Minerals Commission, Environmental Protection Agency, Ghana Health Service, COCOBOD, Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Ghana Police Service, and Immigration Service.

NGO representatives from Solidaridad, WACAM, and the Village Savings & Loans Association (VSLA) were also present at the dialogue sessions.