Small miners get equipment boost

Six small-scale miners on Monday received essential mining equipment from the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), part of an ongoing effort to help operators re-enter the sector and boost production.

The recipients — Melinda Parahoo, Jason De Santos, Dolly Wallace, Clifford Moses, Priscilla Milton and Rich Miles Williams — were each issued full equipment packages, including a 4-inch dredge, chainsaw, 2500W generator, freezer and other key components. Moses also received a 15HP outboard engine, donated by GGDMA President Ronaldo Alphonso and Executive Member Terry Singh.

The initiative follows the Association’s October 10 Open Day focused on declarations, compliance and sector challenges. Three of the beneficiaries are Amerindians from Middle Mazaruni, reflecting the GGDMA’s outreach to Indigenous stakeholders.

The GGDMA said the programme aims to strengthen small miners while promoting responsible, compliant operations. Beneficiaries must provide year-end gold declarations and sell to the Guyana Gold Board or licensed dealers. Miners expressed gratitude for the assistance.