By Ashiadey Dotse
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has terminated the licenses of 278 small-scale mining operators for failing to comply with mining regulations and for allowing their permits to expire.
In a public notice issued on Thursday, October 23, 2024, by the Ministry, Mr. Buah explained that the decision was taken in line with the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) and the Minerals and Mining (General) Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2173).
He said while the government recognizes the important role small-scale mining plays in providing jobs and supporting local economies, operators must follow the laws that protect the environment and promote responsible mining.
“The government believes that mining operations must strictly adhere to regulations and policies designed to protect citizen involvement, promote environmental stewardship, and ensure compliance with good governance practices,” the statement said.
According to the Minister, the affected licenses were revoked due to breaches that undermined public trust in the mining sector. Some of the operators also failed to renew their permits, making their activities illegal under the law.
Mr. Buah stressed that mining regulations are not meant to obstruct development but to ensure sustainability and fairness in the sector. He noted that illegal and unregulated mining damages the environment and harms host communities.
The Ministry urged all current and prospective miners to familiarize themselves with the legal procedures for obtaining and renewing mining licenses. This, the Minister said, will prevent future terminations and ensure the proper management of Ghana’s mineral resources.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing mining laws to ensure that the country’s natural resources are harnessed responsibly for national development.
