Excerpt
The Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners (GNASSM) serves as the umbrella organization for registered small-scale miners in Ghana. Established in 2011, its formation was facilitated by the Minerals Commission under the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703, subsection 90(e)).
Constitutional Mandates
GNASSM operates under the framework of Ghana’s mining laws, particularly the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703). The association’s mandates include promoting efficient small-scale mining practices, ensuring environmental stewardship, and advocating for the rights and welfare of its members.
Leadership and Structure
The association is governed by a national executive body, which includes positions such as President, General Secretary, and Communications Director. Additionally, GNASSM has district chairpersons who oversee operations at the local level. In August 2020, ten new district chairpersons were sworn into office to manage affairs across various districts.
Offices and Units
GNASSM operates in all nine mining districts as demarcated by the Minerals Commission. The association’s headquarters is located in the PMMC Building, Accra.
Mode of Appointment and Recruitment
Leadership positions within GNASSM are typically filled through elections or appointments during general meetings. For instance, district chairpersons are sworn into office to manage local operations.
Oversight and Partnerships
While GNASSM operates independently, it collaborates closely with governmental bodies such as the Minerals Commission. The association has also partnered with academic institutions like the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) to promote sustainable mining practices.
Operations and Roles
GNASSM’s primary operations involve advocating for the regularization and licensing of small-scale miners, protecting miners’ rights, encouraging tax compliance, and promoting environmental conservation. The association also focuses on women’s empowerment and combating child labor within mining communities.
Historical Reforms
- In recent years, GNASSM has called for urgent reforms in Ghana’s mining sector to address illegal mining and environmental degradation. The association has committed to supporting efforts aimed at instilling environmental stewardship and has collaborated with the government to protect water bodies and forest reserves.
References
- https://gnassm.org/
- https://atinkaonline.com/galamsey-gnassm-deploys-task-force-to-protect-river-bodies/
- https://www.graphic.com.gh/news/general-news/govt-partners-with-small-scale-miners-to-protect-ghanas-rivers-and-forest-reserves.html
- https://thebftonline.com/2025/01/10/gnassm-calls-for-urgent-mining-reforms/
- https://gnassm.org/about-us/
- https://www.myjoyonline.com/national-association-of-small-scale-miners-swear-in-new-district-chairpersons/