The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), Sammy Gyamfi, has issued a strong call for global collaboration to uplift artisanal and small-scale miners while safeguarding the environment.

Delivering his concluding remarks at the 2025 Dubai Precious Metals Conference, he said the world must recognise the human and community-centred nature of artisanal mining.

“ASM is not merely about mining gold,” Mr Gyamfi stressed. “It is about uplifting communities and fostering sustainable livelihoods.”

He noted that millions of people depend on the sector for income, dignity and social inclusion, making it a vital pillar of national and global development.

The GoldBod CEO also dismissed the notion that responsible mining and ASM cannot coexist. Citing Chile as a model, he said the sector can thrive without harmful practices.

“We can do without the use of mercury, excessive cyanide and other heavy metals,” he emphasised, calling for safer and modern alternatives.

According to him, transforming the sector requires a coordinated blend of policy reform, technological innovation and strict enforcement.

“We are shaping an industry where prosperity and environmental stewardship go hand in hand,” he noted, highlighting Ghana’s commitment to sustainable mining practices.

Mr Gyamfi ended with a stirring appeal to the global community to support responsible ASM reforms.

“May future generations look back and say we forged a golden path that gave them a meaningful economic heritage and kept their environment safe,” he said.