Gold in Ghana

Africa is home to some of the world’s largest gold reserves, with several countries holding more than 100 metric tons of the precious metal. These reserves represent a significant source of wealth and potential for economic development for the continent.

The West African state of Ghana is the world’s sixth-biggest gold exporter, and the second-biggest cocoa exporter.

The region’s first gold mining companies were formed shortly after the British established the Gold Coast Colony in 1874, and, following two successive gold rushes in the early-1900s, gold prospecting and extraction were widespread in Obuasi, Tarkwa and Prestea.

It certainly helped that the British Empire had control over the three major gold fields to the south of them. As such, Ghana was referred to by traders as “the Land of Gold,” and the kings of Ghana were sometimes called “the Lords of the Gold.” As a result, the empire flourished.

Some 32 gold and silver items have been retirned on long-term loan to the country by the Victoria & Albert Museum and the British Museum. They were stolen from the court of the Asante king, known as the Asantehene, during 19th century conflicts between the British and powerful Asante people.

About 40 percent of Ghana’s total gold comes from small mines — those not owned by large international companies. And an estimated 70-80 percent of the small mines are unlicensed. News reports and human rights groups say numerous miners have died from collapsing pits in recent years.

Destination : Ghana