The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has canceled all mining licenses granted after December 7, 2024, in a bid to combat illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
This move aims to address the significant environmental harm caused by illegal mining, which has led to the degradation of forest reserves and water bodies.
Speaking during a press briefing on the ministry’s policies and initiatives, sector minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah revealed that seven out of nine forest reserves impacted by illegal mining have been successfully restored.
He explained that, following the advice and recommendations of key committees, the ministry, with support from the EPA, Minerals Commission, Forestry Commission, and Water Resources Commission, decided to revoke all mining licenses based on these findings. As a result, all small-scale licenses issued after December 7 have been revoked.
He emphasized that whether or not the affected parties hold EPA licenses, it is clear that those licenses were granted hastily, without proper procedure or due process.
However, affected parties will have the opportunity to appeal to ensure that all processes are properly followed.