Industry leaders at the Mining in Motion 2025 summit discussed Ghana’s efforts to formalize its artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sector. During a session sponsored by India Gold Metaverse, titled “Case Studies in ASGM Formalization: Learning from Successes and Addressing Challenges,” participants highlighted that formalization could lead to sustainability, stronger communities, and long-term economic growth.

“We need regulatory and legislative changes that support small-scale miners and ensure that revenue from their contributions translates into real economic, social and communal growth,” stated Martin Ayisi, CEO of the Minerals Commission of Ghana. Ayisi called for regulatory and financial interventions, emphasizing the need for investment in geological investigations and sustainable technologies. This, he noted, would prevent encroachment on protected areas and improve overall sector outcomes.

From Ivory Coast, Cisse Vakaba, Advisor to the President on Mining, spoke about the importance of geology in building a viable ASGM sector. He stressed that state support should include geological surveys, professional training, community engagement, and digital tools for traceability, beyond just issuing permits.

“I really think that the basis for small mines is the geological aspect. This is the aspect where we have to work, to see the areas where they can exploit,” Vakaba stated, adding, “The State must provide support. It’s not enough to issue a title, a permit. We need to support prospecting and geological research.”

Melissa Correa Vélez, Program Manager at Swiss Better Gold, emphasized a human-centered approach for successful formalization. Through Swiss Better Gold’s Boots on the Ground initiative, Velez advocates for programs, including technical support and community-oriented training, that go beyond legal structures to improve livelihoods and environmental stewardship.

“If you want to work with artisanal miners, work with them. Keep the miners interested in being responsible. If the miners lose interest because of the challenges, they will become illegal,” Velez stated. Kwaku Afrifa Nsiah-Asare, Lawyer and Entrepreneur at Typhoon Greenfield Development, noted that government support is crucial for ASGM formalization in Ghana, addressing social and financial challenges in the sector.

“By doing everything properly, the Minerals Commission of Ghana has been extremely supportive and made it worthwhile for us to do business. It’s about partnerships and leadership in government,” Nsiah-Asare stated. Lamon Rutten, Managing Director and CEO of India Gold Metaverse, highlighted the role of digital innovation in the ASGM value chain.

“Blockchain technologies and AI can help improve artisanal and small-scale mining operations. Tools like geo-tracking, radio-frequency identification-equipped machinery and internet-of-things devices allow us to trace ore sources. If you really want to develop small-scale mining, work with local banks. Let them understand the sector and they will help drive sustainable growth,” Rutten said.

Panelists agreed that projects like the Ghana Land Restoration and Small-Scale Mining Project—a joint initiative with the World Bank—are setting a precedent. By providing financial and technical support, simplifying licenses through District Mining Committees, and organizing miners into Community Mining Schemes, Ghana is working towards a more legal, sustainable, and community-driven ASGM sector.

The summit was organized by the Ashanti Green Initiative—led by Oheneba Kwaku Duah, Prince of Ghana’s Ashanti Kingdom—in collaboration with Ghana’s Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the World Bank, and the World Gold Council.