Lands Ministry Revokes 278 Mining Licenses in Crackdown
ACCRA, Ghana- The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has announced the revocation of 278 small-scale mining licenses nationwide in what it calls one of the most extensive regulatory enforcement actions of 2025. The decision, signed by Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, follows widespread violations including failure to renew permits, non-compliance with environmental and safety regulations, and unauthorized operations in restricted zones.
The Ministry said the move aligns with its strategy to sanitize the small-scale mining sector, which has faced mounting criticism over its role in environmental degradation, particularly the destruction of rivers and forest reserves through illegal mining activities (galamsey). “Compliance with the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) and its accompanying regulations is non-negotiable,” the statement emphasized, warning that unapproved or unregulated operations will face swift sanctions.
The Ministry further disclosed that ongoing monitoring teams, in collaboration with the Minerals Commission and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), are stepping up inspections to ensure full enforcement of the new directive.
These actions reflect the government’s broader push toward responsible mining, environmental restoration, and transparent governance in Ghana’s natural resources sector.
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