By GhanaNewsPage 
President John Mahama Appoints Sammy Gyamfi as Acting MD of PMMC to Spearhead Ghana Gold Board Establishment
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In a significant move to enhance Ghana’s gold industry and formalize small-scale mining, former President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Sammy Gyamfi as the Acting Managing Director of the Precious Minerals Marketing Company (PMMC).
This C underscores Mahama’s commitment to fulfilling a key promise outlined in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) 2024 manifesto: the creation of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod).
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Sammy Gyamfi to Lead GoldBod Initiative
Sammy Gyamfi, a prominent member of the NDC and an experienced lawyer, has been entrusted with the responsibility of laying the groundwork for the establishment of GoldBod. His appointment signals the seriousness of the Mahama administration’s efforts to revolutionize the small-scale mining sector and maximize the benefits of Ghana’s gold reserves for the nation.
As Acting Managing Director of PMMC, Gyamfi will oversee the transition and institutional changes necessary to establish GoldBod, which is expected to bring much-needed regulation and transparency to Ghana’s small-scale mining industry, commonly referred to as “galamsey.”
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Key Objectives of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod)
The Ghana Gold Board is a cornerstone policy initiative in the NDC’s manifesto aimed at addressing the persistent challenges facing the small-scale mining sector. Its primary objectives include:
- Formalizing Small-Scale Mining:
GoldBod will work to integrate small-scale miners into the formal economy by providing them with licenses, training, and support to operate within regulated frameworks. - Curbing Illegal Mining Activities:
The initiative aims to eliminate “galamsey” operations that have caused severe environmental degradation, including the pollution of major rivers and farmlands. - Enhancing Revenue Collection:
By formalizing the sector, GoldBod will improve revenue generation from gold exports, ensuring that more resources contribute to national development. - Boosting Local Participation:
GoldBod will empower local miners with the tools and knowledge to increase their productivity while adhering to international best practices. - Promoting Sustainable Mining Practices:
A strong emphasis will be placed on environmentally responsible mining to mitigate the damage caused by illegal operations.
A Major Boost for Ghana’s Gold Industry
Ghana, one of the world’s largest gold producers, stands to gain significantly from the establishment of the Ghana Gold Board. The formalization of small-scale mining has the potential to increase gold output, reduce smuggling, and create thousands of jobs.
The move will also enhance the country’s international reputation in the gold industry, attracting more foreign investments while improving the livelihoods of miners and their communities.
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Sammy Gyamfi’s Strategic Role
As the Acting MD of PMMC, Gyamfi’s role will be pivotal in the successful realization of GoldBod. His responsibilities will include:
- Engaging Stakeholders: Coordinating with miners, traditional leaders, government agencies, and environmental groups to ensure broad-based support.
- Building Institutional Capacity: Strengthening PMMC’s infrastructure to handle its expanded role under GoldBod.
- Streamlining Gold Trade: Establishing systems to monitor and regulate gold sales, reducing illicit activities and increasing state revenue.
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President Mahama’s Vision for the Future
President Mahama has consistently emphasized the importance of leveraging Ghana’s natural resources for sustainable development. The establishment of GoldBod aligns with his vision of creating a gold industry that benefits all Ghanaians while preserving the environment for future generations.
This bold initiative is expected to be a game-changer for the small-scale mining sector, transforming it from a source of controversy into a major contributor to Ghana’s economic growth.
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With the appointment of Sammy Gyamfi, the groundwork is being laid for what could become one of Ghana’s most transformative mining reforms. The NDC’s focus on the gold industry reaffirms its commitment to addressing key economic challenges and positioning Ghana as a global leader in responsible mining practices.
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