The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) will introduce a blockchain-powered Track and Trace system by the end of 2026 to ensure that every gram of gold purchased is traceable to its legitimate and sustainable source.
This major reform was announced by the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, Sammy Gyamfi, during his address at the 2025 Dubai Precious Metals Conference held at the Atlantis Palm Jumeirah Hotel in Dubai.
Mr. Gyamfi said the new system will strengthen Ghana’s efforts to formalise the artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector and curb illegal mining. Despite being established only seven months ago, GoldBod is already advancing plans to deploy the technology, which will verify the origin of all gold purchased and exported.
Under the Track and Trace system, all on-boarded licensed mines will undergo periodic compliance audits to prevent them from acting as fronts for illegal mining operations. The initiative aims to enhance transparency, promote responsible sourcing and align Ghana’s gold supply chain with international best practices.
Mr. Gyamfi emphasised that responsible sourcing is not merely an ethical obligation but a legal requirement under the Ghana Gold Board Act, which mandates strict oversight of gold production, sales and export. He noted that the rollout of the system forms part of broader reforms to eliminate gold smuggling, strengthen regulatory controls and promote sustainability within the sector.
He cautioned that gold smuggling remains a major threat globally, fuelling money laundering, illicit financing and criminal networks. Ghana, he said, is pushing for an international certification regime similar to the Kimberley Process for diamonds to prevent smuggled gold from entering the global supply chain.
The GoldBod CEO added that the organisation has already intensified enforcement measures, including a special task force that has arrested several illegal traders now facing prosecution. Additionally, GoldBod is investing in technological upgrades such as an ISO-certified assay laboratory to modernise testing methods within the ASM ecosystem.
Mr. Gyamfi called on international bodies including the DMCC, OECD, LBMA and World Gold Council to support Ghana and other developing countries in implementing sustainable, technologically advanced reforms in the ASM sector.
He concluded by emphasising the need to balance gold production with environmental protection, stressing that responsible mining is essential for safeguarding livelihoods, protecting natural resources and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.