New land allocation model to boost small-scale mining

February 16 2026

The Ministry of Natural Resources has announced a new “Troy-like” land allocation initiative designed to expand access to mining lands for small-scale Guyanese miners, while strengthening transparency and compliance across the gold mining sector.

The initiative is based on a model first implemented at Issano 14 Mile, an area formerly operated by Troy Resources.

Following the closure of that operation, portions of the licence were subdivided into 27-acre parcels and allocated to small miners under a structured framework.

The ministry said nearly 100 miners are currently operating in the area, with significant benefits seen particularly in Regions Seven and Eight.

Building on that experience, the ministry, through the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, will roll out similar land allocations in Region One (Mabaruma/Matthews Ridge sub-district), Region Seven and Region Eight. Over the next two to three months, at least 75 parcels will be opened in each region, resulting in approximately 225 allocations for small-scale Guyanese miners.

As part of the expansion, parcel sizes will increase from 27 acres to 50 acres per miner. Miners will also have the option of relinquishing their allocation once mining is completed and applying for another 50-acre parcel.

To support more strategic land distribution, the government has contracted U.S.-based firm Global Venturing to conduct aerial mineral processing and data-collection exercises across mining districts. The surveys, which are nearing completion, are expected to provide detailed geological data to guide future allocations, reduce prospecting costs for small miners, limit environmental impact and improve efficiency in the sector.

In addition, the Guyana Gold Board plans to introduce mobile gold purchasing units to improve access for miners operating in remote locations. The ministry reiterated that, by law, all gold produced in Guyana must be sold to the Gold Board or a licensed buyer.

The supportive measures come alongside a firm zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining. Since the start of intensified enforcement operations, more than 400 pieces of equipment—including engines, pumps, generators and excavators—have been seized during joint exercises conducted by the GGMC and the Guyana Police Force. Nearly 100 individuals have been prosecuted, with additional cases currently before the courts.

According to the ministry, the combined approach of expanded access to land and strict enforcement is intended to protect the integrity of the mining industry, ensure compliance with the law and secure fair returns for the country.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to working with small- and medium-scale miners, whom it described as the backbone of Guyana’s gold industry, to build a transparent, sustainable and prosperous mining sector.