The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has revoked 278 small-scale mining licenses across the country for breaching mining regulations and operating with expired 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. He said the move is part of the government’s renewed effort to bring order and accountability to the small-scale mining sector.
According to Mr. Schandorf, the affected operators either failed to meet environmental and safety standards or continued mining after their licenses had expired.
The decision, led by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, is part of ongoing efforts to restore discipline in the sector. It also reflects the government’s commitment to tackling illegal mining, widely known as galamsey, which has caused severe environmental damage and polluted water bodies across the country.
The ministry said the revocation of the licenses is a key step toward building a more sustainable and responsible mining industry. It also serves as a warning to operators who disregard environmental laws and licensing procedures.
This action forms part of a broader government strategy to reform Ghana’s small-scale mining sector and ensure that it contributes to national development while protecting the environment.
