Govt revokes mining licences issued after December 7

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has revoked all mining licences issued after December 7, 2024, as part of efforts to combat illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.

The decision is aimed at tackling the widespread environmental degradation of forest reserves and water bodies caused by illegal mining activities.

Speaking at a press briefing on the ministry’s policies and programmes, the sector minister, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, also disclosed that seven out of nine forest reserves affected by illegal mining have been successfully reclaimed.

“Based on the advice and recommendations of key committees, jointly with the minister supported by the EPA, the Minerals Commission, the Forestry Commission, and the Water Resources Commission, we are taking the following steps. We are going full steam ahead to revoke all licenses based on the findings. All small-scale licenses that were issued from December 7 are hereby revoked.

“Whether you have EPA licenses or not, the finding is very clear—those licenses issued from December 7 were rushed, due processes were not followed, and the right procedures were ignored.

“However, affected parties will have the opportunity to appeal to ensure the right processes are followed.”