GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) – The Guyana government says it will distribute a large acreage of mining lands to local small-scale gold miners within the next two to three months.

The Ministry of Natural Resources said at least 75 parcels will be made available in each region, totalling approximately 225 allocations and that most importantly, the parcel size will increase from 27 to 50 acres per miner.

“Beneficiaries will retain the option to relinquish their allocation once mined out and apply for another 50-acre parcel,” the ministry said in a statement, adding that the rollout of the new “Troy-like” land allocation model is aimed at expanding access to mining lands for small-scale Guyanese miners, while reinforcing compliance and transparency within the gold mining subsector.”

This initiative follows the successful model implemented in the Issano 14 Mile area, formerly associated with Troy Resources. After the closure of that operation, a portion of the licensed area was subdivided into 27-acre parcels and allocated to small miners under a structured arrangement. Nearly 100 small miners are currently operating in that area, benefiting significantly, particularly in regions seven and eight.

The government has engaged a United States-based company, Global Venturing, to conduct a mineral processing and data collection exercise across the mining districts. The aerial surveys, now nearing completion, will provide high-quality geological data to guide more informed land allocations.

The Government said this will reduce prospecting costs for small miners, minimise environmental impact, and improve overall efficiency in the sector.

The Guyana Gold Board (GGB)said it will introduce mobile purchasing units (mobile shops) to enhance accessibility for miners in remote locations, and the ministry reiterated that all gold produced in Guyana must, by law, be sold to the GGB or a licensed buyer.

“These supportive measures accompany a firm zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining activities,” itsaid, adding that since the commencement of intensified enforcement operations in recent months, more than 400 pieces of equipment, including engines, pumps, generators, and excavators, have been seized in joint exercises conducted by Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGM) and the Guyana Police Force.

Nearly 100 individuals have been prosecuted, with additional matters before the courts.

“These enforcement actions are designed to ensure compliance, protect the integrity of the industry, and secure fair returns for Guyana. The ministry remains fully committed to working alongside small and medium-scale miners, being the backbone of our gold industry, to build a transparent, sustainable, and prosperous mining sector for all Guyanese,” the ministry added.