Ghana’s drive to formalise and maximise gains from its artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector took centre stage in Dubai on Monday as the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi Esq., addressed global industry leaders at the Mining Workshop of the Dubai Precious Metals Conference (DPMC) 2025.
The workshop, organised by the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), forms part of this year’s overarching conference theme: “The Future of Precious Metals: Tariffs, Tokenisation and Trade Flows.” The two-day event, held at The Atlantis, Palm Jumeirah from 24–25 November, has sold out, attracting policymakers, financiers, gold traders, technologists, and executives shaping the world’s precious metals markets.
Speaking on the topic, “Sourcing Gold from Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mines,” Mr Gyamfi underscored the indispensable role of Ghana’s ASM sector in national development. He revealed that in 2025 alone, the sector had contributed 90 tonnes of gold representing 53 per cent of the country’s total gold export earnings. Gold shipments from the sector have already generated over US$9 billion in foreign exchange this year, a critical buffer for Ghana’s economy.
However, while championing the contribution of the ASM industry, the Ghana Gold Board CEO emphasised the urgent need to balance economic gains with environmental sustainability. “We need the jobs in the ASM sector; we need the gold, but we cannot afford the pollution of our environment,” he stressed, reiterating government’s renewed commitment to responsible mining practices, traceability, and global-standard compliance.
Mr Gyamfi’s address came at a conference widely recognised as the world’s leading platform for debate, innovation, and strategic direction within the precious metals landscape. The 13th edition of the DPMC brings together an impressive line-up of global heavyweights including David Tait, CEO of the World Gold Council; Ruth Crowell, CEO of the London Bullion Market Association; Ahmed Bin Sulayem, CEO of DMCC; H.E. Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade; Yu Wenjian, Chairman of the Shanghai Gold Exchange; and Zafeer Hussain, Group Head of Global Markets and Treasury Sales at Emirates NBD.
This year’s gathering is expected to deliver key insights into market shifts, new trade routes, post-tariff global flows, and the fast-rising impact of digital gold tokenisation. Delegates are also exploring regulatory reforms and ethical sourcing frameworks needed to stabilise and future-proof the sector.
Author: Edem Latsu Nukafu
Edem Latsu Nukafu, a passionate communications professional dedicated to public relations, journalism, media strategy, and content development. He holds both a Diploma and Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication Studies (Public Relations) from the University of Media, Arts and Communication – UniMAC-IJ. A member of Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).
