In a bold move to clamp down on illegal mining activities, the government of Ghana has instructed the Minerals Commission to revoke the mining license of Akonta Mining, a company accused of facilitating illegal mining operations in the Tano Nimri Forest. The company is alleged to have sold portions of the protected forest land to illegal miners for GHS 350,000 per concession.
The decision, announced this afternoon, comes after a thorough investigation uncovered that Akonta Mining had breached the country’s mining laws by selling forest land designated for conservation to unauthorized miners. The Tano Nimri Forest, known for its biodiversity and ecological significance, has been increasingly threatened by illegal mining activities that cause extensive damage to the environment.
Sources within the Minerals Commission confirmed that Akonta Mining’s actions violated both national regulations and international environmental standards, prompting the immediate suspension of its license. The government has made it clear that it will not tolerate any actions that contribute to the degradation of the country’s natural resources or undermine efforts to protect Ghana’s forests.
This move underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the environment and ensuring that mining operations are conducted responsibly. In addition to the license revocation, authorities have hinted at further investigations into the role of other entities and individuals involved in the illegal sale of the forest land.
The revocation is expected to send a strong message to other mining companies operating in the country, reaffirming the government’s stance on environmental protection and sustainable resource management.
Akonta Mining has yet to comment publicly on the matter, but sources close to the company suggest they will contest the revocation, claiming the sale of concessions was made in good faith with the proper documentation. Further developments on the case are expected in the coming weeks as the Minerals Commission continues its investigation.
Environmentalists have welcomed the government’s decision, calling it a necessary step in the fight against illegal mining, which has wreaked havoc on Ghana’s ecosystems and wildlife. The government is expected to intensify its efforts to restore the Tano Nimri Forest and ensure that all mining activities in the area adhere to legal and environmental standards.
