Lands Minister Commissions Third Batch of 636 Blue Water Guards to Intensify Fight Against Illegal Mining

Lands Minister Commissions Third Batch of 636 Blue Water Guards to Intensify Fight Against Illegal Mining

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On December 20, 2025 – The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP) in a decisive step towards strengthening government’s fight against illegal mining activities, including environmental destruction, has commissioned the third cohort of 636 Blue Water Guards. The move significantly bolsters the national campaign against illegal mining and the restoration of the country’s water bodies.

The passing-out ceremony which took place at the Ezinlibo Naval Base in Jomoro, brought together government officials, regional leaders, and the security agencies of Ghana. The new guards, drawn predominantly from the Ashanti, Central, and Eastern Regions, will be deployed to key illegal mining (galamsey) hotspots to enhance surveillance and enforcement.

Addressing the parade, Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah underscored environmental protection as a top government priority. “The protection of Ghana’s environment and water bodies remains central to our national development,” he stated. “The expanded Blue Water Guards initiative will complement existing efforts and send a clear message that we will not relent in our fight against galamsey.” He emphasized that the guards will work closely with the Ghana Navy, the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), and other agencies to monitor rivers, detect illegal activities, and safeguard vital water resources.

With this third batch, the total number of trained Blue Water Guards operating nationwide rises to approximately 1,700, marking a substantial reinforcement of Ghana’s frontline environmental protection force.

Echoing the Minister’s call, the Minerals Commission emphasized the need for a collective national response. In a speech delivered on behalf of the Acting CEO, Mr. Isaac Tandoh, by Acting Deputy CEO in charge of Small-Scale Mining & Industrial Minerals, Mr. Maxwell Klu, the Commission described illegal mining as a severe threat to public health, livelihoods, and the nation’s future. Mr. Klu highlighted the extensive damage caused by galamsey, including the pollution of rivers that has turned critical sources of drinking water into contaminated systems. He noted that the impact extends beyond environmental degradation, crippling farming, fishing, and access to clean water in many communities.

Mr. Klu asserted that “While government leadership remains critical, the fight against illegal mining cannot be left to state institutions alone”. “It requires the active involvement of citizens, traditional authorities, civil society, and local communities.” He further outlined the essential actions required going forward, including sustained public education on the dangers of illegal mining, support for responsible mining practices, and the prompt reporting of illegal activities. He also urged citizens to hold public officials accountable for enforcing laws and to support initiatives such as the Blue Water Initiative.

The Commission further called for increased investment in innovative solutions and alternative livelihood programmes to help individuals engaged in illegal mining transition into sustainable, lawful economic activities.

The Blue Water Guard initiative forms part of a wider government strategy that includes:

• Revoking legislations that previously permitted mining in ecologically sensitive areas, reinforcing a strict no-mining stance in forest reserves.

• Implementing reforestation efforts and water restoration programmes to reverse environmental degradation.

• Ensuring coordinated enforcement and community participation through collaboration with the Minerals Commission, security agencies, and community leaders.

The newly commissioned guards will serve as frontline defenders of Ghana’s rivers, with responsibilities ranging from daily surveillance and reporting illegal activities to community education and supporting national anti-galamsey operations.

On his part, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene pledged continued support for the initiative, reaffirming government’s commitment to protecting natural resources and promoting responsible and sustainable mining practices.

Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah charged the recruits to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and patriotism in their national assignment. On his part, Mr. Klu concluded with a powerful reminder: “Protecting water resources is a national responsibility. Let us remain united in this fight to ensure Ghana’s rivers and lakes remain clean and capable of supporting present and future generations.”

Minerals Commission Condemns Violent Clashes Between Residents of Adelekezu And Jas Mining Company In the Western Region

Minerals Commission Awarded At Gold Statement 2025 Conference

The Commission has been honoured for its exceptional regulatory leadership and enduring partnership with the jewellery industry. The recognition was bestowed during the prestigious Gold Statement 2025 Gala Night, held on November 29 at the Golden Bean Hotel in Kumasi.

The glittering ceremony marked the grand finale of the two-day Gold Statement summit, a platform that has significantly evolved from a national forum into a truly Pan-African dialogue concerning the jewellery and minerals sector.

Against a backdrop of dazzling jewellery showcases and cultural performances, the Commission was presented with a special award acknowledging its pivotal role in developing and regulating the industry. The honour specifically highlighted the Commission’s critical work in formalising Ghana’s artisanal and small-scale mining landscape, reinforcing the conference theme that the prosperity of Ghana’s jewellery sector is inextricably linked to responsible mining practices.

Speaking at the event, Madam Judy Nakuor Crayem, Chairperson of Gold Statement and CEO of Rapport Services, underscored the vital importance of collaboration between regulators and private industry. She noted that the award bestowed upon the Commission symbolised the sector’s deep appreciation for this continued partnership.

This award is not just for the Commission; it is a recognition of the shared vision we hold with every miner, jeweller, and designer in this room. It reaffirms our collective commitment to transforming Ghana’s mineral wealth into a source of sustainable livelihood, environmental responsibility, and global pride through jewellery. The Commission is committed to deepening this collaboration to ensure our gold tells a story of integrity from the mine to the market. The award positions the Commission as a key architect in building a transparent, sustainable, and globally competitive value chain for Ghanaian gold.

The Gold Statement 2025 successfully convened a diverse and influential gathering, blending high-level policy discussions with technical presentations and a major jewellery exhibition.

This year’s edition saw significant continental expansion, hosting patrons from Nigeria, Malawi, Botswana, Tanzania, and Côte d’Ivoire, among others. The programme attracted high-level sponsorship and collaboration from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the African Union’s African Minerals Development Centre (AMDC), and the Africa Gem Jewellery Exhibitions & Conference.

Furthermore, the event successfully charted a coherent path for future industry development. A significant milestone included the cementing of a partnership between the Lapidary Institute of Ghana, industry stakeholders, and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

The 2025 summit concluded with a renewed focus on the convergence of responsible mining, championed by the Commission, skills development through academic collaboration, and international support to build a resilient, ethical, and globally competitive African jewellery industry.

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Minerals Commission Reaffirms Commitment To Sustainable Local Content Development At Mime 2025

The Commission reinforced its pivotal role in advancing responsible mining and sustainable local content development through its active participation in the 2025 Mining Industry Marketing Expo (MIME). The event, organized by the Ghana Chamber of Mines in partnership with key sector stakeholders, was held at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) in Tarkwa from November 12-13, 2025. This annual forum convened industry leaders, businesses, and policymakers to explore pathways toward sustainable growth and enhanced local participation in Ghana’s mining sector.

Led by Madam Victoria Awuni, Deputy CEO for Policy Planning, Mineral Titles & Local Content, and Mr. Ben Birch-Mensah, Director of Local Content, the Commission’s delegation presented a range of strategic policies and programs designed to empower Ghanaian enterprises within the mining value chain. Through a dedicated exhibition booth, the Commission offered stakeholders an interactive platform to engage with regulatory frameworks, licensing procedures, and supplier development opportunities.

A central feature of the Expo was the Business-to-Business (B2B) Sessions, which enabled direct dialogue between mining companies, input manufacturers, and local suppliers. The Commission’s involvement in these sessions highlighted its ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration, promoting value addition, and facilitating meaningful partnerships within the industry.

By taking part in MIME 2025, the Commission reiterated its dedication to cultivating an enabling environment where local businesses can thrive. These efforts align with the broader objective of ensuring that Ghana’s mining sector remains competitive, inclusive, and anchored in sustainable national development.

Government Reaffirms Commitment to Green Mining, Calls for Responsible Media Reporting

Government Reaffirms Commitment to Green Mining, Calls for Responsible Media Reporting

Speaking at the opening ceremony of a three-day training workshop for editors and reporters on the theme “Green Mining: Best Practices and Responsible Reporting” in Aburi on Thursday, December 11, 2025, the minister said mining activities must be managed carefully to reduce their negative impact on water bodies, land, and air quality.

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has reiterated government’s commitment to sustainable mining practices and environmental protection, while urging journalists to adopt responsible and data-driven reporting to support the fight against illegal mining.

The keynote address was delivered on his behalf by Mr. Maxwell Klu, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission.

Mr. Buah described green mining as a sustainable approach to mineral extraction that minimizes environmental damage through renewable energy use, waste reduction, water conservation, mercury-free extraction techniques, community engagement, land reclamation, and carbon footprint reduction.

According to him, the adoption of green mining practices is a critical tool in addressing illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, which he described as a serious threat to Ghana’s environment, socio-economic stability, and long-term development.

Legal and Policy Framework

The minister highlighted Ghana’s strong legal regime governing mining activities, noting that the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), as amended by Acts 900 and 995, criminalizes mining without a license and prescribes severe penalties, including prison terms ranging from 15 to 25 years.

The law also bans mining in protected areas and strengthens enforcement through measures such as tighter controls on excavator imports.

He also referenced the Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124) as a key legislative instrument aimed at safeguarding the country’s environment.

Beyond domestic laws, Mr. Buah said Ghana remains committed to international environmental standards, citing the country’s ratification of major global conventions, including the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Paris Agreement, and the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer.

“These conventions, treaties and national laws are a testament to Ghana’s commitment to responsible mining and environmental stewardship,” he said.

Role of the Media

The minister stressed that the media plays a critical role in shaping public understanding of mining and environmental issues, urging journalists to prioritize technical knowledge, ethical accountability, and investigative, data-driven reporting.

He called on reporters to deepen their understanding of mining processes, laws, and regulatory frameworks, and to hold all stakeholders accountable while remaining fair, people-centered, and open to criticism.

Responsible reporting, he said, should also highlight reclamation efforts and interventions by institutions such as the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) and other agencies involved in combating illegal mining.

Government Interventions

Mr. Buah disclosed that government has laid before Parliament an instrument to revoke Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, which allows the President to grant mining licenses in forest reserves.

The move, he said, aligns with broader national efforts to curb illegal mining and protect forest resources.

He further cited initiatives such as the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) as part of government’s integrated strategy to address galamsey.

Industry Recognition and the Way Forward

Highlighting progress within the mining industry, the minister praised companies that have demonstrated excellence in green mining practices.

Newmont Ghana Gold Limited’s Ahafo South Mine emerged as the Best Green Mine at the 11th Ghana Mining Industry Awards (GMIA) in 2025, earning recognition for innovation, environmental stewardship, and community development.

AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine and Gold Fields Ghana Limited’s Tarkwa Mine were also commended for strong performance in areas such as carbon reduction, land and water management, active reclamation, and biodiversity restoration.

Mr. Buah said the Ministry envisions global mining firms and Green Mine award winners mentoring small-scale mining operations to help address illegal mining.

He concluded by calling on the media and the “fourth estate of the realm” to uphold ethical standards, collaborate with government, and help keep the public informed and protected.

“Green mining is a shared mission,” he said, urging journalists to engage credible data sources, adopt practical reporting tools, and promote multi-stakeholder dialogue.

The workshop is expected to enhance journalists’ capacity to report accurately and responsibly on mining and environmental issues in Ghana.

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LANDS MINISTER COMMISERATES WITH NAIMOS TASKFORCE OVER DEATH OF COLLEAGUE

LANDS MINISTER COMMISERATES WITH NAIMOS TASKFORCE OVER DEATH OF COLLEAGUE

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November 20, 2025 – The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP), accompanied by Mr. Isaac Tandoh, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, and other senior officials, visited the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) to offer condolences to the team following the tragic loss of a taskforce member in a road accident near Obuasi.

During the visit, the Minister and his delegation commiserated with the leadership and members of the Secretariat. The Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, on behalf of His Excellency the President of the Republic, President John Dramani Mahama, expressed sympathy and solidarity with the security forces.

The Hon. Minister led the delegation to sign the book of condolence opened in honour of the fallen officer, recognizing his dedication to Ghana’s anti-illegal mining efforts. The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to the safety and welfare of frontline operatives, acknowledging the courage and sacrifice of the NAIMOS Officials. He assured them of government’s continued support, “This is a moment of shared grief, but also of renewed resolve. The nation stands with you. Your work is noble, and your fallen colleague’s legacy will not be forgotten” he remarked.

The Ministry and Minerals Commission are working with the bereaved family to provide support and ensure a dignified farewell for the departed Officer. The Minister commended the team’s resilience, professionalism, and dedication, stating, “In the face of adversity, the strength of a team is revealed. Let this moment of sorrow remind us of the profound impact of your service to Ghana. Together, we will uphold the values of integrity, courage, and commitment that define our collective mission.”

Issued by:

CORPORATE AFFAIRS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT

GHANA POISED TO LEAD IN GLOBAL LITHIUM MARKET. PUPLAMPU HIGHLIGHTS GHANA’S PUSH FOR LOCAL LITHIUM PROCESSING AND VALUE ADDITION AT IGF FORUM GHANA EYES INDUSTRIALIZATION, MIDSTREAM LITHIUM PROCESSING

GHANA POISED TO LEAD IN GLOBAL LITHIUM MARKET. PUPLAMPU HIGHLIGHTS GHANA’S PUSH FOR LOCAL LITHIUM PROCESSING AND VALUE ADDITION AT IGF FORUM GHANA EYES INDUSTRIALIZATION, MIDSTREAM LITHIUM PROCESSING

Wisdom Puplampu, Assistant Manager for Research & Statistics at the Minerals Commission, says Ghana is rapidly positioning itself as a strategic player in the global lithium market.

Speaking at the 21st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Intergovernmental Forum on Mining, Minerals, Metals and Sustainable Development (IGF) held at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Puplampu highlighted the country’s emerging lithium sector as a new growth pole for the economy.

“Ghana’s lithium potential, primarily from hard-rock spodumene deposits in the Central and Western Regions, offers transformative opportunities for both national and regional development,” he said.

He noted that the Ewoyaa Lithium Project, developed by Atlantic Lithium Limited, remains the sector’s flagship, having advanced through feasibility studies, permitting stages, and state equity participation via the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF).

Puplampu added that multiple exploration licenses granted to other companies indicate rising investor interest and broader geological potential.

Puplampu explained that Ghana is shifting away from the traditional dig-and-ship model toward downstream processing and value addition.

“Under the Green Minerals Policy, companies are required to conduct studies to evaluate domestic conversion of lithium and by-products such as feldspar for the ceramic industry.

This approach aims to create industrial supply chains, generate skilled employment, and support Ghana’s clean energy ambitions,” he said.

According to Puplampu, Ghana’s strategy balances investment attraction with national benefit. “The state’s equity participation through MIIF, strengthened local content provisions, and incentives for domestic processing ensure value retention.

Transparent governance, parliamentary oversight, and environmental safeguards provide investor confidence while promoting sustainable development,” he added.

Puplampu emphasized that as global demand for lithium surges, Ghana offers a stable, transparent, and strategically located alternative to dominant producers.

“By linking extraction with local processing and regional manufacturing under the African Continental Free Trade Area, Ghana is positioning itself not just as a supplier, but as a co-developer of industrial capacity, contributing to a more resilient global lithium supply chain,” he said.

The Ghanaian delegation included: Mr. Martin Kwaku Ayisi (Technical Advisor, Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources); Mrs. Helen Akpene Awo Ziwu (Solicitor General, Office of the Attorney General & Ministry of Justice); Dr. Ahmed Tijani (Head of Corporate Affairs and IT, Minerals Commission); Mrs. Leona Serwah Johnson-Abassah (Chief State Attorney); Mr. Wisdom B. Puplampu (Assistant Manager, Research and Statistics, Minerals Commission); and Mr. Gabriel Gaanu (Manager, Mining Sector, Domestic Tax Division, Ghana Revenue Authority).

Victoria Awuni: Ghana’s Mining Industry Driving Inclusive Growth and Development

Victoria Awuni: Ghana’s Mining Industry Driving Inclusive Growth and Development

Victoria Awuni, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Policy Planning, Mineral Titles & Local Content at Ghana’s Minerals Commission, has highlighted Ghana’s approach to inclusive mining at the 21st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Intergovernmental Forum on Mining, Minerals, Metals and Sustainable Development (IGF), held at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

Speaking at the plenary session on “Value for All: Inclusive Strategies Across Mineral Value Chains,” Awuni showcased how Ghana’s mining sector leverages local content and procurement frameworks to promote inclusive employment, gender equality, and Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) participation.

Awuni noted that Ghana’s local content regime balances local and foreign expertise. Mining companies are required to reserve specific job opportunities for Ghanaian citizens while integrating foreign expertise to support technology transfer and productivity. Mine managers are expected to be Ghanaian nationals after five years of operation, and laws mandate employment opportunities for vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities.

Gender Equality

Awuni explained that Ghanaian legislation requires mining firms to demonstrate gender parity through localization plans submitted to the Minerals Commission. While a 2022 IGF study showed women were mostly in clerical roles, Ghana is now reinforcing women’s participation in technical and managerial positions through legal and policy measures

Mining generates opportunities for supporting businesses. Ghana has earmarked 51 goods and services for local businesses with significant local shareholding, generating USD 2.6 billion in 2024 and creating employment beyond the mines themselves.

Awuni highlighted community development initiatives, including ICT labs in schools, technology training, and road construction projects such as Newmont’s 10.2 km Afrisipa-Tekyire bypass and Goldfields’ 33 km Tarkwa-Damang road reconstruction. These projects enhance connectivity, digital skills, and energy access in host mining communities.

Awuni concluded that Ghana’s experience demonstrates how coherent local content policies ensure mining contributes not only to national revenue but also to broad-based social and economic benefits.

The Ghanaian delegation included: Mr. Martin Kwaku Ayisi (Technical Advisor, Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources); Mrs. Helen Akpene Awo Ziwu (Solicitor General, Office of the Attorney General & Ministry of Justice); Dr. Ahmed Tijani (Head of Corporate Affairs and IT, Minerals Commission); Mrs. Leona Serwah Johnson-Abassah (Chief State Attorney); Mr. Wisdom B. Puplampu (Assistant Manager, Research and Statistics, Minerals Commission); and Mr. Gabriel Gaanu (Manager, Mining Sector, Domestic Tax Division, Ghana Revenue Authority).

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GHANA HIGHLIGHTS MINING SECTOR REFORMS AT IGF AGM 2025 IN GENEVA

GHANA HIGHLIGHTS MINING SECTOR REFORMS AT IGF AGM 2025 IN GENEVA

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Ghana showcased its mining sector reforms and policy initiatives at the 21st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Intergovernmental Forum on Mining, Minerals, Metals and Sustainable Development (AGM), held from November 3–6, 2025, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.

Organized under the theme, “Value Beyond Extraction: Rethinking Mining for a Resilient Future”, the four-day conference brought together member countries, policymakers, civil society organizations, and industry leaders to share knowledge, discuss emerging trends, and review technical sessions, including the induction of new Executive Committee members.

At the plenary session on Wednesday, November 5, Ms. Victoria Awuni, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Policy Planning, Mineral Titles & Local Content at the Minerals Commission, spoke on “Value for All: Inclusive Strategies Across Mineral Value Chains.”

She emphasized that Ghana’s local content policies are designed to promote inclusivity while maximizing benefits for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Awuni highlighted how local content and procurement frameworks drive inclusive employment, gender equality, and SME participation across the mining value chain.

She also cited the positive impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives by mining companies, including ICT training, health, water, recreational facilities, and road construction.

Notable projects include the construction of ICT laboratories and the supply of computers for schools, as well as Newmont Ghana’s 10.2 km Afrisipa-Tekyire Bypass on the Sunyani-Kumasi Road and Goldfields Ghana’s 33 km Tarkwa-Damang road reconstruction.

During the Commodity Session on Lithium, Mr. Wisdom B. Puplampu, Assistant Manager for Research and Statistics at the Minerals Commission, highlighted Ghana’s strategic potential in critical minerals.

He noted that the Ewoyaa Lithium Project presents opportunities for value retention and local beneficiation. Although the mining lease agreement with Atlantic Lithium’s subsidiary, Barari DV, is yet to be ratified by Parliament, the terms include a 10% royalty (up from 5%), 13% state participation (up from 10%), and 13% shareholding by the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF).

Mr. Puplampu also highlighted that Atlantic Lithium is required to build a lithium processing facility, ensuring value addition and generating employment opportunities for Ghanaian youth. He emphasized that the new policy framework is designed to strengthen Ghana’s management of both traditional minerals (gold, bauxite, manganese, diamonds) and transition minerals like lithium.

The Ghanaian delegation included: Mr. Martin Kwaku Ayisi (Technical Advisor, Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources); Mrs. Helen Akpene Awo Ziwu (Solicitor General, Office of the Attorney General & Ministry of Justice); Dr. Ahmed Tijani (Head of Corporate Affairs and IT, Minerals Commission); Mrs. Leona Serwah Johnson-Abassah (Chief State Attorney); Mr. Wisdom B. Puplampu (Assistant Manager, Research and Statistics, Minerals Commission); and Mr. Gabriel Gaanu (Manager, Mining Sector, Domestic Tax Division, Ghana Revenue Authority).

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Edmund Prah Harrison’s Transformational Career at the Minerals Commission

From the Gate to the Bar: Edmund Prah Harrison’s Transformational Career at the Minerals Commission

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Growing up in a single-parent household, Edmund Prah Harrison Esq. faced financial hardship that nearly derailed his dream of becoming a top professional. Yet through perseverance, faith, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth, he transformed adversity into opportunity – charting a remarkable path within the Minerals Commission.

Edmund began his career at the Commission as a security personnel after completing Senior High School. Determined to advance, he acquired driving skills and pursued further education while working full-time. With discipline and resilience, he steadily progressed from driver to Assistant Administrative Officer, where he developed strong administrative and organizational capabilities.

It was during this phase that Edmund’s aspiration to pursue law took root. With unwavering focus, he completed his LLB programme and gained admission to the Ghana School of Law. Today, as a qualified lawyer, he brings a unique blend of practical experience, administrative insight, and legal acumen to support the Commission’s mandate.

Reflecting on his journey, Edmund emphasized that this transformation would not have been possible without the unwavering support and encouragement of the Board, Management, and Staff of the Commission. “Their belief in my potential, investment in capacity building, and commitment to nurturing talent created the enabling environment for my growth,” he noted. He also expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities, mentorship, and trust extended to him throughout his career.

Edmund’s story is a testament to the power of determination, continuous learning, and institutional support. He remains committed to serving the Commission with integrity, excellence, and a grounded perspective – ready to tackle complex legal challenges and contribute meaningfully to the Commission’s growth and development.

To God be the glory.

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