Asantehene commends Goldbod CEO for his leadership in tackling illicit mining

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, speaking at the event

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has lauded the Chief Executive Officer of Ghana Goldbod, Sammy Gyamfi, for his remarkable leadership and innovative initiatives within the mining sector.

Speaking at the Global Mining Summit on Monday, June 2, 2025, the Asantehene expressed appreciation for the efforts of Sammmy Gyamfi and his team for strengthening Ghana’s gold industry.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II emphasised the need to leverage Ghana’s rich mining heritage for the benefit of all Ghanaians, highlighting the crucial role of organisations like Goldbod in shaping the country’s future in the global mining industry

He further noted that while illegal mining activities continue to undermine the sector, the steps made by Goldbod under the current leadership demonstrate a significant commitment to maximising the benefits of Ghana’s natural resources.

“Probably, the most costly effect of illicit mining to me is the distraction from the real challenge we face, which is how we maximise the benefits of our noble heritage. We have to be true to ourselves and admit that we have not done a good job of representing and protecting ourselves in the competitive global market. Sammy, I thank you very much for this one,” the Asantehene stated.

The Asantehene praised Sammy Gyamfi for his bold and patriotic leadership at GoldBod, noting that his efforts are helping shift the national focus from reactive responses to illegal mining toward proactive strategies that secure long-term value from Ghana’s mineral wealth.

The commendation comes at a time when Ghana is intensifying efforts to formalise the mining sector, increase local participation, and curb the harmful environmental and economic effects of illegal mining.

Under Gyamfi’s leadership, GoldBod has emerged as a vocal proponent of responsible mining, transparent governance, and Ghanaian ownership of strategic mineral assets.

Otumfuo reiterated that the conversation around mining must go beyond policing illegal activities to include systemic reforms that elevate Ghana’s position in the global mineral value chain.

“Through the mining industry, and gold in particular, we have the opportunity to rewrite our story — but only if we take ourselves seriously,” he added.

The Asantehene’s endorsement of GoldBod’s direction signals growing support from traditional leadership for reforms aimed at maximising national benefit from Ghana’s natural resources.