Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has raised serious concerns over the government’s use of the GoldBod initiative, alleging that it is indirectly promoting illegal small-scale mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Speaking on the Mid-Year Budget review on Thursday, July 31, 2025, Afenyo-Markin claimed that the program, which was launched to regulate and formalise the small-scale mining sector, has instead become a cover for unchecked illegal operations across several regions.
He accused the government of neglecting farmers and compromising Ghana’s food security. Transformation of livelihoods, he said, has been abandoned in favour of illegal gold mining under the pretext of the GoldBod.
He said “The government has now legitimised galamsey, as GoldBod is actively purchasing from and encouraging these operations.
Afenyo‑Markin also attacked the justice strategy of the government, arguing that instead of rigorously prosecuting those accused of stealing national assets and reinvesting recovered funds, the government appears to be weaponising prosecutions. “
“It’s protecting its allies while targeting NPP appointees,” he stated.
GoldBod is envisioned to serve as the central authority overseeing the purchase, assay, sale, and export of gold from small-scale miners.
By consolidating these functions under one entity, the initiative seeks to streamline operations, curb illegal activities such as gold smuggling, and ensure that gold transactions contribute positively to Ghana’s foreign exchange reserves.
This strategic move is expected to stabilise the national currency and bolster economic revitalisation.
