The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has revoked 278 small-scale mining licenses nationwide, citing breaches of mining regulations and the expiration of operational permits.
The announcement, made by the Ministry’s Spokesperson and Media Relations Officer, Paa Kwesi Schandorf, in a Facebook post on Thursday, October 23, is part of the government’s renewed initiative to instill order and accountability within the small-scale mining sector.
Mr. Schandorf clarified that the revocation was aimed at operators who did not comply with environmental and safety standards or who continued mining activities beyond the validity period of their licenses.
This action, which embodies Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah’s commitment to reinstating discipline in the sector, follows years of government concern regarding illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, and its detrimental effects on Ghana’s environment and water resources.
This recent development indicates the government’s more stringent approach to reforming the sector as part of a comprehensive strategy to encourage sustainable and environmentally responsible mining practices.
