962 Small Scale Mining Licenses at Risk of Revocation – Lands Minister Warns
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, has issued a stern ultimatum to holders of 962 small scale mining licenses, warning that their permits will be revoked by August 4, 2025, if identified irregularities are not corrected.
This announcement follows the submission of a report by a ministerial committee tasked with auditing small scale mining licenses across the country.
Committee Uncovers Widespread Irregularities
According to the Ministry’s Media Relations Officer, Paa Kwesi Schandorf, the committee reviewed a total of 1,278 licenses, and the findings were alarming:
- 316 licenses were cleared as compliant
- 962 licenses were found to contain major irregularities, including:
- Documentation gaps
- Procedural anomalies
- Poor data management
The committee presented its report to the Minister on Monday, July 21, 2025, at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.
Two-Week Grace Period to Rectify Irregularities
Minister Kofi-Buah emphasized that holders of the 962 questionable licenses have until August 4 to correct the irregularities or face permanent revocation.
“We will not compromise the integrity of our environment or the rule of law. If the anomalies are not corrected, those licenses will be revoked,” he warned.
Reforms and Accountability Ahead
The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to preserving natural resources and tackling illegal mining activities head-on. He added that the Ministry is rolling out reforms to clean up the licensing regime, ensuring that only legally compliant operations continue.
In addition, the Ministry will soon begin a comprehensive review of large scale mining licenses, aiming to address similar concerns within that segment of the industry.
Further Details Expected July 23
Minister Kofi-Buah is expected to provide additional clarification and direction during the Government Accountability Series at the Jubilee House on Wednesday, July 23, 2025.
This bold stance marks another milestone in Ghana’s ongoing efforts to sanitize the mining sector and ensure responsible resource exploitation.
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