GGDMA donates mining equipment to support small-scale operators

The Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) has continued its assistance programme aimed at helping small-scale miners re-enter the industry and expand their operations. On Tuesday, the Association handed over essential mining equipment to six miners at a ceremony held at its Secretariat.
The initiative follows the GGDMA’s Open Day held in October, which focused on declarations, compliance, sectoral challenges and supporting sustainable livelihoods within the mining community. The beneficiaries, Melinda Parahoo, Jason De Santos, Dolly Wallace, Clifford Moses, Priscilla Milton, and Rich Miles Williams, each received a package of equipment that included a complete 4-inch dredge, chainsaw, 2500-Watt (W) generator set, TCL five cubic ft freezer, and supporting components such as pipes, hoses, impellers, bearing block, housing, and mats. In addition, Moses received a 15-horsepower outboard motor engine.
The equipment was donated through contributions from GGDMA President Ronaldo Alphonso and Executive Member Terry Singh. According to the Association, three of the recipients are Amerindian miners from the Middle Mazaruni area, reflecting ongoing efforts to collaborate with Indigenous stakeholders in the sector.

The GGDMA said the initiative is part of its continued commitment to strengthening the mining industry by assisting small operators and promoting responsible practices. The Association has also been advocating for increased production and declarations across the sector. Recipients of the equipment are required to provide evidence of their gold declarations at the end of the year. The GGDMA reminded miners that they must sell their gold to the Guyana Gold Board or licensed dealers and maintain proper records. The association stated that providing tools and promoting compliance are necessary for a resilient and sustainable mining sector. The miners expressed appreciation for the support.