Govt revokes 278 small-scale mining licenses over regulatory breaches

The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has revoked 278 small-scale mining licenses across the country for breaches of mining regulations and failure to renew operational permits.

The announcement was made by the Ministry’s Spokesperson and Media Relations Officer, Paa Kwesi Schandorf, in a Facebook post on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

According to Mr. Schandorf, the affected operators either failed to comply with environmental and safety standards or continued mining operations despite the expiry of their licenses.

The move underscores the government’s renewed crackdown on illegal mining practices and its commitment to sanitizing the small-scale mining space.

It also reflects the firm stance of sector Minister, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, who has repeatedly emphasized the need to protect Ghana’s environment — particularly its rivers and farmlands — from the destructive effects of unregulated mining.

The revocations form part of broader reforms aimed at enforcing responsible mining while ensuring that only compliant operators remain in the sector.

Government officials say additional enforcement actions will follow as authorities intensify efforts to curb galamsey and restore ecological stability in mining communities.