Ghana to Revocate 962 Small-Scale Mining Licenses Over Irregularities

Strategic Insights -

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has warned of the possible revocation of 962 small-scale mining licenses in Ghana due to multiple irregularities, including documentation gaps, process anomalies, and data quality issues. The decision follows a committee's report on the status of small-scale mining licenses across the country. The minister has given a two-week ultimatum for rectification of the anomalies, warning that all 962 defective licenses will be permanently revoked if not addressed.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has announced plans to revoke 962 small-scale mining licenses due to irregularities.
  • A committee report revealed that 1,278 licenses were reviewed, with 316 cleared of any irregularities, while the remaining 962 had multiple issues.
  • The irregularities include documentation gaps, process anomalies, and data quality issues.
  • The minister has given a two-week ultimatum for rectification of the anomalies, after which the licenses will be permanently revoked.
  • The minister's office aims to preserve the environment and take necessary steps against persons who flout mining regulations.
  • Stringent measures are being implemented to reform the entire licensing regime to sanitize mining across the country.
  • A review of large-scale mining licenses is also expected to begin to address irregularities in the sector.

Statistics:

  • 1,278 small-scale mining licenses were reviewed by the committee.
  • 316 licenses were cleared of any irregularities.
  • 962 licenses had multiple irregularities, including documentation gaps, process anomalies, and data quality issues.
  • The minister has given a two-week ultimatum for rectification of the anomalies.
  • 962 small-scale mining licenses will be permanently revoked if not rectified.

Sources:

  • Ghana Web (July 21, 2025) - "Minister Warns of Revoke of 962 Small-Scale Mining Licenses"
  • Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Ghana