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.
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 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.
WACN provides continuous training in mine safety, geology, ore processing, and environmental best practices.
We assist miners in forming legally recognized cooperatives and acquiring valid licenses and permits.
We promote eco-friendly mining, land rehabilitation, and environmental education in mining communities
Through our partnerships with microfinance institutions, development partners, and mineral buyers, we help our members secure capital and markets
We facilitate fair-trade mineral marketing and local processing to increase returns for our members
We work with the following stakeholders:
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 as a Professor and Head of the Mining Engineering Department at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Tarkwa, Ghana. He also holds the position of CEO of the African Institution of Mining Professionals and Practitioners (AfIMPP), where he plays a key role in shaping advanced academic programmes in mining and allied engineering disciplines.
Prof. Agyei holds a Doctor of Technical Sciences degree in Mining Engineering from Instituto Superior Minero Metalurgico, Cuba, and an MBA in General Management from Educatis University, Switzerland. His leadership competencies span academic governance, industry collaboration, research development, and curriculum innovation.
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 board membership in Africa Cooperative network enables me to share my experiences in Mining, Geology, and Environmental management to the society and the nation as a whole.
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 expertise in financial management, accounting, and cooperative governance. Samuel is dedicated to strengthening the financial sustainability and operational efficiency of cooperatives across West Africa.
