By: Adams Perpetual
Member of Parliament for Binduri, Mr. Issifu Mahmoud, has hailed the Gold Board’s new regulatory framework and upcoming refinery project, describing it as “good news coming at the right time.”
“Coming at the right time in the sense that we all know how illegal mining is costing us our water bodies and our forest reserves,” he said.
Mr. Mahmoud stressed that refining gold locally will not only boost Ghana’s foreign exchange earnings but also help stabilize the cedi. “Gold is one of our top foreign exchange earners, and the steps being taken now will help protect our currency and strengthen the economy,” he added.
Speaking on the ‘GTV Breakfast Show’ on September 10, 2025, the MP welcomed the Board’s progress in curbing gold smuggling and stabilizing exports.
He lauded the establishment of a new refinery and Assay laboratory at Kotoka International Airport, saying it would allow Ghana to refine its gold locally before export.
The MP further urged that mining revenues be channeled back into communities through clean water, electrification, schools, and health facilities—not just in host towns but also in neighbouring areas.
While highlighting gains in reclaiming forest reserves, Mr. Mahmoud admitted that the fight against galamsey remains complex. He emphasized that responsible mining must be central to government policy, warning that unchecked illegal mining threatens cocoa farms, forests, and water bodies.
Looking ahead, he expressed optimism that the Gold Board’s partnership with the Bank of Ghana marks a turning point in Ghana’s resource management strategy.
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