Where Is Gold Mined in Ghana? Major Regions, Mines & Maps

Gold is primarily mined in Ghana’s Western, Ashanti, Eastern, Central, and Northern regions, making the country Africa’s leading gold producer with over 130 metric tons annually as of 2024. 

These areas host both large-scale industrial operations by multinational companies and small-scale artisanal mining, often referred to as galamsey. The Western Region dominates production, followed closely by Ashanti, where historic sites like Obuasi continue to yield significant outputs.

For investors and buyers, understanding these locations is crucial for assessing opportunities in gold extraction, trading, and exports. This comprehensive guide covers major regions, key mines, towns, geological factors, environmental impacts, and investment trends, helping you navigate Ghana’s vibrant gold sector.

Whether you’re eyeing direct investments in mining companies or sourcing gold for international markets, we’ll highlight how to capitalize on Ghana’s resources while considering sustainable practices.

Overview of Gold Mining in Ghana

Ghana’s gold mining history dates back to the 15th century, when the region, known as the Gold Coast, attracted European traders. Today, Ghana ranks as Africa’s top gold producer and sixth globally, with output rising to an estimated 4.9 million ounces in 2024, up 8.5% from the previous year. 

Projections for 2025 suggest a further increase to 5.1 million ounces, driven by new projects and expansions.  The industry contributes about 48% of the country’s exports, bolstering its economy and attracting foreign direct investment.

A key distinction lies between industrial (large-scale) mining, operated by companies like Newmont, Gold Fields, and AngloGold Ashanti, and artisanal small-scale mining (ASM), which employs over a million Ghanaians but often operates informally.

Large-scale mining uses advanced technology for efficient extraction, while ASM relies on manual methods but faces challenges like environmental degradation.

For investors, large-scale operations offer stable returns through stock investments or partnerships, whereas ASM presents grassroots opportunities, though with higher risks due to regulatory hurdles.

Government oversight via the Minerals Commission ensures royalties and taxes fund national development. Recent initiatives, like the 2025 gold traceability program, enhance transparency, making Ghana an appealing destination for ethical gold buyers. 

As global demand for gold rises amid economic uncertainties, Ghana’s sector promises strong growth for savvy investors.

Major Gold-Producing Regions in Ghana

Ghana’s gold production is concentrated in five main regions, each with unique geological features and mining activities. These areas form part of the Ashanti Gold Belt and other formations, offering diverse investment prospects from established mines to emerging explorations.

Western Region (Largest Gold-Producing Area)

The Western Region is Ghana’s gold mining powerhouse, accounting for over 40% of national output.  Key towns include Tarkwa, Damang, and Bogoso, where open-pit and underground operations thrive.

Tarkwa hosts one of Africa’s largest open-pit mines, operated by Gold Fields, producing around 500,000 ounces annually. Damang, also under Gold Fields, is set for state handover in 2026, potentially opening new investment avenues.  Bogoso features the Prestea-Bogoso mine, now managed by Asante Gold.

For investors, this region’s infrastructure, including ports in Takoradi, facilitates easy gold exports. Small-scale mining in alluvial deposits adds to the vibrancy, but buyers should prioritize licensed sources to avoid illicit trade risks.  Emerging projects, like Azumah Resources’ mine near Burkina Faso border, signal future growth.

Ashanti Region

The Ashanti Region, centered around Kumasi, is historically significant, with gold mining dating to ancient kingdoms. Obuasi is the epicenter, home to AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi Mine, one of the world’s deepest underground operations, producing over 300,000 ounces yearly after recent redevelopment.  The region blends large-scale and artisanal mining, with companies like Asante Gold active in Bibiani.

Investors appreciate the region’s stability and skilled workforce. Gold buyers can source from licensed exporters, with the area’s rich deposits ensuring steady supply. However, community relations are key, as historical disputes highlight the need for CSR-focused investments.

Eastern Region

In the Eastern Region, mining focuses on the Akyem area and Kyebi. Newmont’s Akyem Mine, operational since 2013, yields about 422,000 ounces annually from open-pit methods.  Small-scale operations in alluvial zones complement industrial efforts.

This region appeals to investors due to its proximity to Accra, easing logistics for gold exports. Emerging explorations in forested areas offer potential, but environmental regulations, post-2026 forest mining repeal, emphasize sustainable practices.

Central Region

The Central Region features alluvial gold mining in Dunkwa-on-Offin, where rivers like the Offin yield deposits through panning and dredging. Perseus Mining’s Edikan Mine is a major player, producing around 200,000 ounces yearly.

For buyers, the region’s coastal access aids shipping, while investors can explore partnerships in rehabilitation projects to mitigate environmental impacts.

Northern & Upper Regions

Northern Ghana, including the Talensi area, sees growing small-scale and emerging large-scale mining. New projects in Upper West, like Azumah’s, target untapped reserves.  Artisanal mining dominates, but infrastructure improvements could attract more investment.

Investors eyeing diversification should note the region’s potential for high-grade discoveries, though challenges like water scarcity require careful planning.

Major Gold Mines in Ghana

Ghana boasts several world-class mines, operated by global firms. Here’s a list with locations and operators:

• Ahafo Mine: Located in Brong-Ahafo (now Bono Region), operated by Newmont. Open-pit operation producing 400,000+ ounces annually.
• Akyem Mine: Eastern Region, Newmont operator. Known for efficient processing, outputting 422,000 ounces/year.
• Obuasi Mine: Ashanti Region, AngloGold Ashanti. Underground mine with over 300,000 ounces production.
• Tarkwa Mine: Western Region, Gold Fields. Africa’s largest open-pit, ~500,000 ounces.
• Damang Mine: Western Region, Gold Fields (handover in 2026). Focuses on expansion.
• Edikan Mine: Central Region, Perseus Mining. Alluvial and hard rock, ~200,000 ounces.

These mines offer investment via shares (e.g., NYSE-listed Newmont) or direct partnerships. For buyers, they ensure traceable gold supply.

Gold Mining Towns & Communities

Key towns include:

• Obuasi: Ashanti’s gold hub, with AngloGold’s mine driving economy.
• Tarkwa: Western’s educational and mining center, home to Gold Fields.
• Prestea: Near Bogoso, artisanal and industrial mix.
• Dunkwa-on-Offin: Central’s alluvial focus.
• Bibiani: Ashanti’s emerging spot with Asante Gold.

These communities offer local sourcing for buyers, but investors should engage in CSR for long-term viability.

Types of Gold Mining in Ghana

Ghana features large-scale industrial mining (e.g., open-pit at Tarkwa) and small-scale licensed operations. Alluvial mining extracts river deposits, while underground vs. open-pit depends on depth. For investors, industrial offers scale; ASM, affordability but with regulations.

Who Mines Gold in Ghana?

Major players: Newmont, Gold Fields, AngloGold Ashanti, Perseus, Asante Gold, and China’s Zijin.  Local miners operate under Minerals Commission licenses. Government oversees via royalties (10% free carried interest).

Environmental & Community Impact

Mining causes land degradation, water pollution (60% of water sources contaminated), and mercury exposure.  Companies like Newmont invest in rehabilitation and CSR, including education and health programs. The 2026 forest repeal protects biodiversity.  Investors should prioritize ESG-compliant firms for sustainable returns.

Why Gold Is Found in These Areas

Ghana’s gold ties to Birimian Supergroup formations, ancient volcanic and sedimentary rocks hosting gold belts.  These Proterozoic structures, aligned along volcanic flanks, explain concentrations in Western and Ashanti. Tarkwaian conglomerates add placer deposits. For buyers, this geology assures long-term reserves.

Gold Production Trends by Region

Western leads with 40%+ share, Ashanti follows at ~30%, Eastern ~15%, Central ~10%, Northern emerging at 5%.  Trends show 6.25% national growth in 2025, with Northern’s explorations (e.g., Azumah) as future hotspots.  Investors: Watch Western for stability, Northern for high upside.

FAQs about Gold Mining 

Which region produces the most gold in Ghana?

The Western Region, with mines like Tarkwa and Damang.

Is gold found in all regions of Ghana?

No, primarily in Western, Ashanti, Eastern, Central, and Northern.

Can individuals mine gold in Ghana legally?

Yes, with a small-scale license from the Minerals Commission.

Where is Obuasi gold mine located?

In the Ashanti Region, near Kumasi.

Is Ghana rich in gold?

Yes, with reserves worth $2.7 billion and top African production.

How can investors buy gold from Ghana?

Through licensed exporters; follow PMMC procedures for authenticity.

What are the investment opportunities in Ghana’s gold?

Stocks in companies like Newmont, or direct mine partnerships.

What environmental risks should gold buyers consider?

Pollution from illegal mining; opt for traceable, sustainable sources.