GGDMA equips several small-scale gold miners to restart production

Last Updated on Sunday, 1 June 2025, 17:46 by Writer

Ten small-scale miners are now expected to resume gold production, with the donation of 20 dredge engines by the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), the association said Sunday.

Demerara Waves Online News was reliably informed that the miners have, in turn, committed to declaring their production to the Guyana Gold Board (GGB) or authorised gold buyers and keeping records of their production and related transactions. While 20 dredge engines were provided, a source explained that two engines are required for one dredge.

“It is very heartening when a small miner can move up the scale as a natural evolution,” GGDMA Vice President, Dabria Marcus was quoted as saying in an association statement. “We understand the difficulties that small miners face, and we will continue to support them in any way we can.”

The GGDMA said that “important initiative” was carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources during an official visit by Minister Vickram Bharrat to Bartica, Region 7, on Saturday.

The association said it recognised the vital role that small miners play in the industry and was committed to providing the support needed to help them recover and thrive.

The GGDMA also underscored the importance of its regular Open Days, which remain a cornerstone of its outreach efforts. These sessions provide all miners with the opportunity to engage directly with the Association, voice their concerns, seek guidance, and access support. “Issues raised during these engagements are carefully reviewed, and where appropriate, the Association implements targeted interventions such as this donation,” the GGDMA added.

The GGDMA said it remained steadfast in its mission to strengthen Guyana’s mining sector by empowering its members—especially small and medium-scale miners—and ensuring they have the tools, resources, and opportunities needed to succeed.

The Association was represented in Bartica by a team comprising Vice President Dabria Marcus, Immediate Past President Andron Alphonso, Executive Member Vishanti Balgobin, Executive Member Terry Singh, and the GGDMA Administrator Avalon Jagnandan.