Minerals Commission Consults Bono Regional House of Chiefs on Mining Policy and Legal Reforms

August 6, 2025 – Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Nana Freduah Agyemang Badu II, the paramount chief of the Dormaa traditional area and President of the Bono Region House of Chiefs, unequivocally gave his unalloyed support for the Draft Reviewed mining Policy and the proposed amendments to the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703). Dr. Nana Freduah Agyemang Badu II also underscored government’s commitment for inclusive policy formulation and recognition of the pivotal role of traditional authorities in the extractive sector.

Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Nana Freduah Agyemang Badu II, also commended government’s initiative to deepened consultation with traditional authorities in the mining sector, recognizing the significant role they play in the country’s development. He expressed appreciation for the royalties allocated to traditional authorities, and affirmed its significant contribution to the growth and prosperity of local and host mining communities.

As the President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Nana Freduah Agyemang Badu II has been instrumental in promoting economic development in the region. He admonished paramount chiefs and traditional authorities to unite in facilitating job creation and other economic opportunities for the youth, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between traditional leaders, government agencies, and private sector partners.

Dormaahene’s commitment to community development extends beyond economic initiatives. He has led by example, participating in community clean-up exercises and promoting environmental stewardship in his area. His efforts have earned him praise from various personalities, including Reverend Obofour, who commended him for his leadership and dedication to his people.

Osagyefo indicated that the policy review will determine whether Ghana leads Africa into the new frontier for responsible and sustainable mining, or whether we remain trapped in the destructive patterns of the past.

As a member of the National House of Chiefs, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Dr. Nana Freduah Agyemang Badu II has also played a key role in evaluating mining operations in forest reserves and proposing strategies to curb mining activities in water bodies. His dedication to responsible mining practices and environmental protection underscores his commitment to the well-being of his people and the nation.

Dr. Ahmed Tijani highlighted the mission of the team and introduced staff of the Minerals Commission to the Nananom. He further explained the three sessions of presentation, emphasizing that the team were there to listen and learn at first hand the concerns and contributions of the House towards crafting an all encompassing policies and regulations that will inure to the benefit of the country.

Mr. Nelson Ahedor emphasized that Stakeholder engagement, especially with traditional authorities and community leaders, is crucial. Their insights help craft policies and laws grounded in realities of our people. Chiefs, as custodians of the land, play a vital role in shaping legal instruments for natural resource protection and utilization.

Mr. Ahedor stated that the decision to review the Minerals and Mining Policy, which has been in place for over a decade, and to amend the Minerals and Mining Act, which has been variously amended in the last twenty years, is timely and necessary. He further indicated that the process demonstrates the commitment of Government to reposition the sector in line with global best practices, address emerging challenges such as climate change, and harness the full potential of our mineral resources for national development, he added.

“We firmly believe, Nananom, that no mineral right, whether for small-scale, medium-scale, or large-scale mining, should be granted without consultation with traditional authorities,” he stated.

Following today’s deliberations, the House will be afforded a two-week window to submit formal proposals that capture the essence of your collective wisdom. These proposals will be carefully considered by the committee to ensure that they are adequately incorporated into the law.

Mr. Benjamin Aryee, former CEO of the Minerals Commission, presented a comprehensive review of the 2014-Mining Policy, He underscored that the revised policy and legal framework would provide a robust foundation for the mining sector and will be more inclusive, transparent, and sustainable, ultimately fostering a more responsible and equitable industry.

Mr. Josef Iroko, Manager in charge of Legal, highlighted the proposed amendments to the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).

The proposed amendment aims to establish a more resilient, transparent, and sustainable mining sector in Ghana by addressing prevailing vulnerabilities, aligning with global best practices, and fostering prudent resource stewardship, thereby ensuring the long-term benefits of the nation’s mineral wealth,

During the discussion, several concerns were raised, including a clear and accurate interpretation of what constitutes a mining right as defined in Act 703.

Members emphasized the urgent need to for the Commission to strictly enforce the law regulating the various categoriyof licenses and ensure that licensed holders comply with the dictates of their licenses.

Nananom, expressed concern abiut the mechanics of land use compensation and called for deeper consultations to engender trust and confidence of all stakeholders.

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