Ghana is accelerating efforts to deepen local value addition in the mining sector as the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) advances discussions toward a refining services agreement with the Royal Ghana Gold Refinery.

Here are three key takeaways from the visit by the Chief Executive Officer of GoldBod, Sammy Gyamfi, to the facility:

1. Government push for local gold refining intensifies

The visit on Monday, April 27, 2026, forms part of a broader policy direction aimed at ensuring that Ghana moves away from exporting raw gold and instead processes more of its minerals locally to retain greater economic value.

2. Refinery shows strong operational readiness, but needs upgrades

During the inspection, Mr. Gyamfi toured key sections of the facility including the receiving bay, smelting room, assay laboratory, furnace area, and bar casting unit. He also examined equipment such as XRF and ICP systems. While he described the refinery as largely ready for operations, he noted that additional technical upgrades are required based on expert recommendations.

3. A major partnership is in the works to boost Ghana’s gold value chain

GoldBod is expected to partner with the refinery to ensure that gold sourced from artisanal and small scale mining is refined into bullion before export. The move is designed to strengthen Ghana’s industrial base, increase job creation, and improve revenue retention from gold exports.

Mr. Gyamfi linked the initiative to President John Dramani Mahama’s industrial vision, stressing that “by 2030, no mineral should leave Ghana in its raw form. We must refine and add value here at home so that the country benefits more from its natural resources.”

The proposed agreement is expected to be finalised in the coming weeks following the implementation of technical recommendations from consultants.