Ghana steps up mercury phase-out in small-scale gold mining through planetGold project  

The Government of Ghana, through the Environmental Protection Authority has stepped up efforts to phase out mercury use in the Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) sector under the Global Environment Facility funded planet GOLD Ghana project.  

The project also in partnership with the UNDP and UNIDO organized two community workshops in Asankragwa , in Wassa Amenfi West, and Prestea, in the Prestea Huni-Valley District to educate miners on the dangers of mercury and the benefits of adopting safer, mercury-free gold processing technologies.  

Ms. Priscilla Yorke, Municipal Chief Executive for Wassa Amenfi West, at the Asankragwa workshop, urged miners to embrace sustainable practices, stressing that “mercury-free mining will protect both the environment and the health of our people.”  

Mr. Lovelace Sarpong, Project Coordinator, explained that the initiative was designed to minimize mercury risks, improve financial inclusion for miners, and help Ghana meet its commitments under the Minamata Convention on Mercury.  

Dr Ishmael Quiacoe, University of Mines and Technology highlighted alternative technologies such as gravimetric separation and flotation, while also warning that mercury exposure could cause kidney damage, nervous system disorders, and reproductive health risks.  

Miners and other value chain actors expressed interest in mercury-free gold processing technologies and called for financial support to aid the transition.  

Source: GNA  

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