Policy analyst and natural resource governance advocate, Dr. Steve Manteaw, has described as “mischievous” the claims by Prof. Stephen Addae that the establishment of the Ghana Gold Board effectively legalizes illegal mining, popularly known as ‘galamsey’.
According to Dr. Manteaw, in post on his Facebook post, Prof. Addae’s assertions reflect a fundamental misunderstanding of the purpose, mandate and regulatory framework governing the newly established Ghana Gold Board.
He argues that the professor’s comments indicate a lack of familiarity with the GoldBod Act, which outlines stringent measures designed precisely to prevent illegally mined gold from entering Ghana’s official supply chain.
Dr. Manteaw noted that the GoldBod is already considering proposals to implement a comprehensive gold traceability system, a key legal requirement under its establishing Act.
“How can an Act that mandates a full traceability framework, including documentation of custody from mine head to market, be interpreted as an attempt to legalize galamsey?” he questioned.
He further emphasized that the Board’s policy and operational tools are aligned with OECD guidelines on Responsible Mineral Sourcing as well as Financial Action Task Force (FATF) requirements on customer due diligence.
These international standards, he explained, exist to strengthen transparency and curb the illicit minerals trade.
“Again, how can an entity whose processes are aligned with global due-diligence norms be described as one intended to legalize galamsey?” he added.
Describing Prof. Addae’s remarks as “pedestrian,” Dr. Manteaw expressed disappointment that such commentary had come from a senior academic.
He urged critics to acquaint themselves with the provisions of the GoldBod Act before making pronouncements that may misinform the public.
