Ghana Revokes Small-Scale Mining Licences Issued After 2024 Elections To Combat Illegal Mining

The Ghanaian government has revoked all small-scale mining licences issued after the December 7, 2024, general elections as part of efforts to combat illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.

Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, announced the decision at a press conference on Wednesday, stating that a joint review by multiple state agencies found procedural breaches in the issuance of the licences.

Based on the advice and recommendations of key committees, supported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Minerals Commission, the Forestry Commission, and the Water Resources Commission, we are revoking all licences from December 7 onwards, he said.

He added that many licences were processed without following due procedures, regardless of whether they had EPA clearance.

Armah-Kofi Buah also disclosed that mining equipment seized from illegal operations is in police custody and will be repurposed if investigations confirm they were used unlawfully.

He also stated that the government has reclaimed seven out of nine forest reserves encroached upon by illegal miners and is working to recover the remaining two. The ministry is collaborating with the Attorney General’s office to fast-track the prosecution of those involved in illegal mining.

The decision comes amid increasing public outcry over the devastating effects of galamsey on Ghana’s environment. Illegal mining has led to widespread deforestation, water pollution, and the destruction of farmlands, threatening the livelihoods of many rural communities. Rivers such as the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin have been heavily contaminated by mining activities, making access to clean water a significant challenge in affected regions.

Environmental activists and civil society organisations have repeatedly called on the government to take more decisive action against illegal miners. The revocation of mining licences follows a series of protests and demands for stricter enforcement of mining laws. The issue was also a key topic during the 2024 elections, with political parties pledging to address the crisis.

Despite multiple government interventions in the past, including military-led crackdowns and task forces, illegal mining remains a persistent challenge.

Mining plays a key role in Ghana’s economy, contributing approximately 40 per cent of foreign exchange earnings and 5.7 per cent of GDP, with gold accounting for over 90 per cent of total mineral exports.

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