Welcome to West Africa
Cooperatives Networks
(WACoN)

West Africa Cooperatives Networks (WACoN) is a regional alliance committed to the organization, formalization, and advancement of artisanal and small-scale miners (ASMs) in Ghana and across West Africa. Our mission is to create a unified cooperative platform that empowers miners through technical support, financial inclusion, environmental stewardship, and policy advocacy.

WACoN serves as a catalyst for transforming the ASM sector from informal and often unsafe operations into productive, resilient, and environmentally responsible enterprises. We work directly with mining communities to strengthen local governance, build entrepreneurial capacity, and promote ethical mineral production that meets both national and international standards.

Why WACoN?

Ghana's renewed policy commitment to promote sustainable artisanal and small-scale mining—as captured in the Minerals and Mining Policy, the Multi-Sectoral Mining Integrated Project (MMIP), and recent reforms under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources—has set the stage for formalization, environmental regulation, traceability, and inclusive development within the ASM sector.

WACoN is aligned with these national goals, providing:

Support for cooperative formation to legalize and organize artisanal miners under one umbrella

Training and technical assistance to promote environmentally responsible practices and improved mineral recovery

Access to finance and markets through collective bargaining, credit facilitation, and certification programs

Digital registry and traceability tools to align with Ghana's traceable gold framework and international compliance

Capacity-building in community safety, health, and mine rehabilitation, especially for youth and women miners

Formalize all small-scale mining operations

Reduce illegal mining and environmental degradation

Enhance local content and job creation

Building Ghana's Responsible Mining Future

WACoN believes that sustainable ASM is not just a policy ideal—it is an achievable reality. With a shared vision and strong networks, we are driving the transition to a dignified, safe, and regulated ASM sector that uplifts livelihoods and safeguards our natural heritage.

We Provide the Best Services

Technical Training & Capacity Building

WACN provides continuous training in mine safety, geology, ore processing, and environmental best practices.

Cooperative Formation & Legal Support

We assist miners in forming legally recognized cooperatives and acquiring valid licenses and permits.

Environmental Protection & Reclamation

We promote eco-friendly mining, land rehabilitation, and environmental education in mining communities.

Financial Access & Investment Support

Through our partnerships with microfinance institutions, development partners, and mineral buyers, we help our members secure capital and markets.

Market Access & Value Chain Integration

We facilitate fair-trade mineral marketing and local processing to increase returns for our members.

Our Partnerships

We work with the following stakeholders:

Minerals Commision of Ghana

Ghana National Association of Small-Scale Miners

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

NGOs and International Development Agencies

District Assemblies and Traditional Authorities

Academic and Technical Training Institutions

Meet Our Board Members

Prof. George Agyei, Ph.D

Prof. George Agyei is a distinguished Mining Engineer and academic leader with over two decades of experience in mining engineering education, strategic institutional development, and professional practice. He currently serves …

Dr. Douglas Oti, Ph.D

Dr Douglas Oti is a Geo Environmental Engineer with over thirty years of practicing. He is also into small scale gold mining and processing for the past 10 years. My …

Mr. Samuel Mwiniyorbu

Mr Samuel Mwiniyorbu is a Chartered Accountant with over 17 years of experience in cooperative development, finance, and management. As a Board Member of West Africa Cooperatives Networks, he brings …

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News & Events

RCOMSDEP ENGAGES ELLEMBELLE COMMUNITIES ON COOPERATIVE MINING