The Government of Ghana has approved a new nationwide initiative called the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP).
Announced by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the programme seeks to reform small-scale mining and create sustainable employment across the country.
rCOMSDEP builds on previous efforts like the Community Mining Scheme and the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme.
It aims to support Ghanaian-owned mining cooperatives by providing training, legal access to mining concessions, and modern mining equipment.
One of the core goals is to eliminate dangerous practices, particularly the use of mercury, by introducing safer, centralised gold processing centres.
The initiative also extends beyond mining, offering training in agriculture, digital technology, and entrepreneurship—especially targeting women and youth.
Communities will benefit from job creation in land restoration, farming, and renewable energy sectors.
Social infrastructure like water systems, schools, and healthcare facilities will also be developed in mining areas under the programme.
This moves underscores the government’s commitment to sustainable mining and inclusive economic development.
The programme was approved in August 2025 and will be rolled out nationwide through the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.