In a bold move to reform Ghana’s small-scale mining sector, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has inaugurated a nine-member committee tasked with a comprehensive review of all small-scale mining licenses across the country.
The committee, chaired by Deputy Minister Sulemana Yusif, aims to address irregularities and strengthen compliance with legal, environmental, and financial standards. The review will focus on critical areas such as:
Ensuring proper procedures were followed during license acquisition.
Verifying adherence to environmental standards, including water body protection, forest conservation, and land preservation.
Confirming the full payment of required permitting fees.
Minister’s Call for Accountability
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah highlighted the importance of the committee’s work in transforming the sector into a sustainable source of national revenue and community benefits.
“Your work will shine a light on irregularities in the licensing regime, restore public and investor confidence, and secure the maximum benefits Ghana deserves from its mineral wealth,” he stated.
The minister further emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to curbing illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey, and ensuring sustainable exploitation of the country’s mineral resources.
Chairman’s Pledge for Transparency
In his acceptance remarks, Chairman Sulemana Yusif assured the minister and stakeholders of a meticulous and unbiased review process.
“We understand the weight of responsibility placed upon us and pledge to work diligently within the two-month deadline to deliver a transparent and credible report,” he said. Yusif also called on license holders to cooperate fully with the committee, stressing the collective need to uphold the integrity of Ghana’s mining sector.
Expert Representation
The committee comprises representatives from key institutions, including:
The Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology & Innovation
Minerals Commission
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Water Resources Commission
Forestry Commission
Office of the Attorney-General
Association of Small-Scale Miners
Ghana Chamber of Mines
This broad representation underscores the government’s intention to involve diverse expertise in ensuring the success of the review.
A Pivotal Step Toward Sustainable Mining
The committee has been given until June 2025 to submit its final report. This initiative marks a critical milestone in Ghana’s fight against illegal mining and its determination to establish a more transparent and sustainable small-scale mining sector.
Stakeholders and industry watchers see this move as a turning point in addressing the challenges that have long plagued small-scale mining operations, from environmental degradation to revenue loss.
Story by :Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
