The Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association (CSSMA) has commended the Chief Executive of Goldbod, Sammy Gyamfi, for what it described as strong and effective leadership in implementing President John Dramani Mahama’s vision for Ghana’s gold sector.
The commendation comes amidst criticisms of GoldBod, particularly from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority, following the reported $214 million loss under the Gold-for-Reserves programme.
In a statement shared with Citi News on Wednesday December 31, the Association said the establishment of Goldbod was aimed at bringing structure, fairness, and national value to the small scale and artisanal gold mining industry, and noted that under Mr. Sammy Gyamfi’s leadership, the objectives of the initiative are steadily being achieved.
According to the CSSMA, Mr. Sammy Gyamfi has demonstrated commitment to the national interest, discipline in management, and respect for the role of small scale miners in Ghana’s economy. The Association said his leadership style has helped rebuild trust between miners and the state through continuous engagement and open dialogue, ensuring that policies reflect the realities faced by miners on the ground.
The Association also praised Mr. Gyamfi for promoting fair and transparent pricing in the purchase of gold from small scale miners. It said this approach has improved incomes, reduced exploitation by middlemen, and encouraged miners to sell their gold through approved channels, thereby strengthening compliance and stability within the sector.
The CSSMA noted that GoldBod’s operations have boosted foreign exchange earnings by formalising gold purchases and reducing leakages. The association added that these inflows have helped ease inflationary pressures, supported the cedi’s appreciation, improved the balance of payments, and strengthened investor confidence, contributing to overall macroeconomic stability.
The Association further applauded Mr. Gyamfi’s efforts to clamp down on gold smuggling, particularly his commitment to introducing a comprehensive system to trace gold from source to sale. According to the CSSMA, such a system would help curb illicit trade, protect state revenue, and restore integrity to the gold sector.
In addition, the Association said effective traceability would deliver environmental benefits by reducing illegal mining, protecting water bodies, improving land reclamation practices, and promoting responsible mining that safeguards communities and natural resources.
The Concerned Small Scale Miners Association pledged its full support for Sammy Gyamfi and reaffirmed its commitment to working with Goldbod and other stakeholders to realise President Mahama’s vision of a well regulated, transparent, and nationally beneficial gold industry.
