Mr Boakye said this in a speech read on his behalf by Mr. James Bittaba German, Health, Safety and Environment Manager of Golden Star Resources, at a three-day training workshop for editors and reporters at Peduase in the Eastern Region.
The training, organised by the Ghana News Agency in partnership with the Association of China-Ghana Mining LBG, attracted participants from media houses in the Western, Upper East and Greater Accra regions.

Held on the theme: “Green Mining: Best Practices and Responsible Reporting,” the workshop aimed at empowering participants to help change the media narrative on mining in Ghana, which has largely focused on illegal small-scale mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.

Mr. Boakye noted that the strict environmental controls under which large-scale mining operated could be replicated within the artisanal and small-scale mining sector to achieve green and sustainable outcomes.
He said the lack of formalisation, coupled with limited access to capital, had compelled some small-scale miners to engage in illegal activities, leading to mercury contamination of major rivers, loss of potable water for communities and the destruction of forests and farmlands.

Mr. Boakye said one of the most effective corrective measures to reduce illegal mining and its attendant environmental and human impacts was to bring all operators under a regulated framework.
He cited the Government-led Community Mining Programme as evidence that artisanal and small-scale mining could be environmentally responsible if properly standardised, adding that “these licensed sites operate with environmental guidelines, demonstrating reduced conflicts and improved monitoring.”

Mr Boakye also called for the adoption of mercury-free technologies, training and the formation of cooperatives to build professional capacity, ensure operations within designated mining zones, and implement digital gold traceability systems.
“For small-scale mining to contribute sustainably to Ghana’s economy without compromising its future, the priority must be a relentless drive to bring all operations under the formal legal and licensing framework, supported by modern, green technologies,” he stated.

Mr Ahmed Dasana Nantogmah, Chief Operating Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, said the structures of the Chamber provided a clear blueprint for small-scale miners seeking to formalise and operate responsibly.
He cited Corporate Social Investment sponsorship of initiatives such as the Green Ghana, now the Tree for Life Project, as part of the Chamber’s support for efforts to combat deforestation and restore forest cover.

Mr Nantogmah pledged the Chamber’s continued support for green mining and environmental protection through policy development, promotion of responsible mining practices and support for capacity-building programmes.