Minerals Commission Assures Stability, Regulatory Oversight in Damang Mine Operations

Minerals Commission Assures Stability, Regulatory Oversight in Damang Mine Operations

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The Minerals Commission is taking proactive steps to ensure the long-term operational vitality of the Damang Mine as the current mining lease held by Gold Fields Limited nears its expiration.

Working in close collaboration with the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the Commission is overseeing a seamless succession process designed to protect the livelihoods of all personnel and maintain the mine’s contribution to the national economy.

Central to this process is an unwavering commitment to job preservation. In line with the policy direction of the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah (MP), the Commission assures all stakeholders that this change in mine ownership will not result in job losses.

This assurance extends to every individual contributing to the mine’s success, including both direct employees and contract workers. The Commission recognizes that the skills and dedication of the Damang workforce are the mine’s greatest assets.

Protecting these livelihoods is a priority to ensure the continued economic health of the local communities that rely on the mine’s large-scale operations.

As the sector regulator, the Commission is managing every step of this succession in strict accordance with Ghana’s legal and regulatory frameworks to ensure operational continuity.

The Commission will ensure that any incoming operator meets the most stringent technical, financial, and environmental benchmarks.

A key requirement for any future investor will be a proven commitment to local content, community development, and responsible mining practices that deepen value within the Ghanaian mining chain.

The Commission is utilizing a transparent and competitive process to identify a highly competent investor capable of sustaining and expanding production levels.

The goal is to attract a responsible partner who will not only maintain current employment but also create new opportunities for socio-economic development.

The Commission remains a steadfast steward of Ghana’s mineral wealth, ensuring that the future of the Damang Mine serves as a global model for balancing investor confidence with the welfare of the Ghanaian people.

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Board Charter for the Governing Board of Minerals Commission December 2025

Board Charter for the Governing Board of Minerals Commission December 2025

Minerals Commission Delegation Tours Ashanti Region, Engages Traditional Leaders, and Visits Model Small‑Scale Mining Operations

Minerals Commission Delegation Tours Ashanti Region, Engages Traditional Leaders, and Visits Model Small‑Scale Mining Operations

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A high‑level 25-member delegation from the Minerals Commission, led by the Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Small‑Scale and Industrial Minerals, Mr. Maxwell Y. A. Klu, undertook a two‑day working visit to the Ashanti Region from March 25-26, 2026.

The visit forms part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration with traditional authorities and promote responsible, formalized small‑scale mining across the country.

The delegation paid a courtesy call on Nana Osei Kwadwo II, Chief of Bekwai, and his elders. The Chief expressed concerns about inadequate involvement of traditional authorities in mining-related decision‑making.

Mr. Klu assured the Traditional Council that the Commission is implementing mechanisms to improve the participation of chiefs in licensing and regulatory processes. He emphasized that the Minerals Commission remains committed to building stronger partnerships with traditional leaders to ensure sustainable mineral resource management.

The team also toured the Akatekyieso Cooperative Mining site, operated by Mr. Michael Owusu. The site, which has transitioned from informal operations into a fully compliant underground mining facility, was praised for its job creation efforts and adherence to regulatory requirements.

Mr. Klu encouraged management to properly document their achievements and corporate social responsibility initiatives to position the mine as a model for responsible small‑scale operations. Mr. Owusu expressed appreciation to the Commission and called for continued technical and regulatory support.

At Geocentric Mining Limited, the delegation was welcomed by Mr. Kendo Yeboah, the Manager, who highlighted the company’s recent progress. Formerly a small‑scale operation, Geocentric has expanded through the development of two new operational shafts and the commissioning of a modern processing plant last year.

Mr. Klu commended the company for maintaining responsible mining practices, stressing the need for technical competence and strict adherence to legal and environmental standards. He noted that sustainable mining principles apply to both small‑scale and large‑scale operators.

The two‑day tour reinforced the Commission’s dual commitment to deepening collaboration with traditional authorities, and promoting responsible, formalized small‑scale mining operations.

By engaging with cooperatives miners and licensed mining companies, the Commission continues to forge a sustainable pathway for the growth and transformation of Ghana’s mining sector.

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Minerals Commission Commends Rabotec Asanko Partnership as Milestone for Local Content and Sustainable Mining in Ghana

Minerals Commission Commends Rabotec–Asanko Partnership as Milestone for Local Content and Sustainable Mining in Ghana.

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The Minerals Commission has welcomed the landmark partnership between Rabotec Ghana Limited and Asanko Gold Ghana Limited, describing it as a significant step forward in advancing Ghana’s local content agenda and strengthening sustainable investment within the mining sector.

The agreement, valued at approximately $400 million over a four-year period, is expected to deepen indigenous participation in mining operations while driving employment, skills development, and value retention within the local economy. Industry stakeholders note that the partnership reflects a deliberate shift toward empowering Ghanaian-owned companies to operate at globally competitive standards, while ensuring that the benefits of mineral resource exploitation are more broadly shared across the country.

Speaking on the development, the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Mr. Isaac Tandoh, underscored the Commission’s strong commitment to policies that promote local content and local participation, emphasizing that such strategic collaborations are critical to building a resilient and inclusive mining sector. The deal is projected to generate approximately 3,000 direct jobs and 5,000 indirect jobs, while also strengthening local supply chains and enhancing technical capacity among Ghanaian firms.

Mr. Tandoh noted that the partnership aligns with the government’s broader vision of ensuring that Ghana’s mineral wealth translates into sustainable socio-economic development. He highlighted that beyond job creation, the agreement represents a long-term investment in human capital development, positioning Ghanaians to take on increasingly complex roles across the mining value chain.

The CEO of the Commission further commended both companies for prioritizing local participation and maintaining high operational standards, stressing that the success of Ghana’s mining industry depends not only on resource extraction but also on the deliberate development of local expertise and enterprise. The collaboration is also expected to stimulate economic activity in host communities, reinforcing the link between responsible mining and community development.

Reaffirming its regulatory mandate, the Commission pledged continued support for initiatives that enhance local content, promote environmental sustainability, and ensure strict compliance with industry regulations. The Commission stressed that partnerships of this nature serve as a model for future investments in which economic growth, job creation, and responsible resource management are pursued in tandem.

The Rabotec-Asanko agreement ultimately signals a strong vote of confidence in Ghana’s mining sector and its policy direction, positioning the country as a leading destination for sustainable mining investment in Africa.

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Minerals Commission Hosts Central Bank of Kenya Delegation on Study Visit

Minerals Commission Hosts Central Bank of Kenya Delegation on Study Visit

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Accra, March 27, 2026 – The Minerals Commission of Ghana welcomed a nine-member delegation from the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), led by Mr. David Luusa, Director of Financial Markets, to its head office in Accra for a study visit focused on Ghana’s minerals regulatory framework and its support for the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP).

Facilitated through the Bank of Ghana’s Gold Management Office, the visit was initiated at the request of the CBK to gain deeper insight into the operational structures, regulatory mechanisms, and institutional collaboration underpinning Ghana’s gold purchase and management system.

During the engagement, Madam Victoria Awuni, Deputy Chief Executive Officer in charge of Policy Planning, Mineral Titles, and Local Content, led discussions on the Commission’s mandate, licensing procedures, monitoring and compliance systems, and its partnership with the Bank of Ghana in strengthening the DGPP. The dialogue also highlighted reforms aimed at promoting responsible mining, enhancing transparency, and maximizing the mineral sector’s contribution to national development.

The CBK’s visit underscores growing regional recognition of Ghana’s innovative gold management framework, which has contributed to improved foreign reserve stability and greater formalization within the artisanal and small-scale mining value chain.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to advancing cooperation with regional partners and expressed readiness to support Kenya’s efforts to enhance its minerals governance and gold reserves strategy.

tender notice for selection of strategic investor for the lease and operation of the damang gold mine

TENDER NOTICE FOR SELECTION OF STRATEGIC INVESTOR FOR THE LEASE AND OPERATION OF THE DAMANG GOLD MINE

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TENDER APPLICATION FORM

APPLICABLE FEE-TENDER NOTICE

Caution to the General Public on Fraudulent Emails and Impersonation

CAUTION TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC ON FRAUDULENT EMAILS AND IMPERSONATION

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The Minerals Commission has issued an urgent public notice regarding individuals impersonating staff to solicit money and sensitive information for mining licences and permits.

Stakeholders are strictly advised that all official business is conducted only through authorized institutional channels, never via private emails or third-party intermediaries.

The public should exercise extreme caution, verify all communications, and immediately report any suspicious requests to the Commission.

Minerals Commission Engages IMF Mission to Strengthen Transparency and Accountability in Ghana’s Mining Sector

Minerals Commission Engages IMF Mission to Strengthen Transparency and Accountability in Ghana’s Mining Sector

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Accra, March 16, 2026 – The Minerals Commission has held a high-level meeting with an International Monetary Fund (IMF) Fiscal Transparency Evaluation Mission led by Almudena Fernandez, to review and enhance transparency and accountability frameworks within the country’s mining sector. The engagement, which took place at the Commission’s head office, brought together senior officials led by the CEO, Mr. Isaac Tandoh, who welcomed the team, and the Deputy CEO for Support Services, Mr. Emmanuel Kwamena Anyimah, who led the technical discussions.

During the meeting, the Commission presented a detailed overview of Ghana’s mineral licensing architecture, emphasizing distinctions between Exploration and Exploitation rights and the statutory processes governing each category. Officials highlighted the importance of legal clarity, regulatory compliance, and transparent procedures in strengthening governance and reinforcing public confidence in the administration of mineral rights.

A significant focus of the engagement was beneficial ownership transparency. The Commission reaffirmed that new mining legislation will mandate the declaration of beneficial owners for all mineral rights holders. It also noted that since 2019, large-scale mining companies and mining support service providers have been required to disclose their beneficial ownership information, while small-scale mining licences remain strictly reserved for Ghanaian citizens. The IMF team was further briefed on statutory processing timelines, including the 90-day period for reviewing and recommendation of mineral right applications by the Commission and the 60-day Ministerial approval window.

The discussions also covered fiscal accountability and revenue flows within the sector. The Commission underscored that royalties are administered by the Ghana Revenue Authority and the Minerals Income Investment Fund in line with approved frameworks, and reaffirmed its commitment to publishing production, labour, health, and safety data to promote transparency. Both parties concluded the meeting with a shared commitment to strengthening Ghana’s mining governance in alignment with international best practices and supporting sustainable national development.

Other senior officials present included Madam Victoria Awuni, Deputy CEO for Policy Planning, Mineral Titles and Local Content; Mr. Joseph Frimpong, Acting Chief Inspector of Mines; Ing. Frank Asare, Director of Mineral Titles; Mr. Josef Iroko, Acting Director, Legal; and Mr. Ernest Brakohiapa, Assistant Manager, Mineral Titles, among others.

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Minerals Commission Partners with Quarry Operators to Strengthen Compliance and Protect Industrial Minerals

Minerals Commission Partners with Quarry Operators to Strengthen Compliance and Protect Industrial Minerals

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In a decisive effort to sanitize operations within Ghana’s industrial minerals sector, the Minerals Commission convened a high-level meeting with the Commercial Quarry Operators Association to tackle encroachment, strengthen regulatory compliance, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry.

The meeting, held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at the Commission’s Head Office, brought together regulators and industry stakeholders to foster collaboration and develop lasting solutions to challenges impeding growth of the quarry sub-sector.

Welcoming participants, Mr. Maxwell Yao Akpene Klu, Deputy CEO in charge of Small-Scale Mining and Industrial Minerals, emphasized the need for a unified and cooperative approach to advance the sector.

Setting the tone for discussions, Mr. Isaac Kuuwan Mwinbelle, Director, Industrial Minerals, raised concerns over production data integrity and operational safety. He underscored the importance of timely licence renewal processes, urging operators to submit reliable data and precise production returns. He also highlighted encroachment as a major challenge confronting operators and noted that several sites remain inactive due to encroachment, community land litigation, and health and safety issues.

The Commercial Quarry Operators Association presented a comprehensive list of challenges and actionable proposals:

• Encroachment – Operators called for granite deposits in the Country to be officially demarcated and reserved for quarry operations. They urged the Commission to issue a public notice warning unlawful settlers to relocate from such area.
• Land Pricing – Concerns were raised over exorbitant land prices set by landowners. The Association proposed compulsory government acquisition of buffer zones for quarrying, with operators paying the state for the buffer areas over the life of the quarry.
• Governance – Operators advocated for transforming the Association into a national body to enhance self-regulation, peer review, and accountability. They cited infractions such as misuse of waybills and failure to submit production returns, which contribute to under-reporting and revenue leakage.

The operators strongly recommended reserving quarry operations for Ghanaians, citing concerns over unauthorized foreign involvement. They urged the Commission to enforce local content regulations in the quarry sub-sector.

On community relations, Operators alleged that some traditional leaders are not receiving their due royalties from the Minerals Development Fund (MDF), causing mistrust and friction. They called for urgent resolution of these discrepancies to strengthen stakeholder relations.

The meeting resulted in several landmark recommendations intended to provide market stability and investor confidence. Key recommendations from the engagement included:

• Extension of Lease Terms – Increase from five (5) to ten (10) years for long-term investment certainty.
• Minimum Floor Pricing – Establishment of a minimum price for quarry products to ensure market stability and unfair competition amongst operators.
• Regulatory Consistency – Elimination of conflicting directives from state agencies.
• National Stakeholder Forum – Organize a national forum to discuss and find solutions to sector problems and raise public awareness of the industry’s economic significance.

In response, Mr. Mwinbelle acknowledged the concerns raised and commended the Association for presenting a unified front. He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to resolving encroachment issues and operational bottlenecks affecting the sector.

The meeting concluded with a mutual pledge to expedite pending licences and resolve outstanding litigations issues, paving the way for a more structured, compliant, and profitable quarrying sub-sector in Ghana.

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Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Leads Ghana’s Delegation to Canada

Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Leads Ghana’s Delegation to Canada

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The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for the Bole-Bamboi Constituency, Hon. Yusif Sulemana, led Ghana’s delegation, comprising officials from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources as well as the Board and Management of the Minerals Commission, to the 94th Annual Convention of the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) 2026.

The PDAC Convention is a premier global gathering for leaders in mineral exploration and development, dedicated to promoting a competitive, responsible, and sustainable international mining sector.

On the sidelines of the convention, Hon. Sulemana held a bilateral meeting with Global Affairs Canada to discuss the longstanding partnership between Ghana and Canada. He underscored the importance of mutual cooperation over the years and emphasized the value of strengthening collaboration and fostering shared development.

Hon. Sulemana also participated in a roundtable session at the International Mines Ministers Summit, held under the theme “Aligning Priorities: National Producer–Consumer Strategies for the Future of Minerals.” He highlighted progressive developments in Ghana’s mining sector, including the ongoing review of regulatory and policy frameworks to align with emerging global standards, efforts to deepen value retention through resource beneficiation, and measures aimed at safeguarding the investment climate for improved returns.

The Deputy Minister further led Ghana’s participation in the Opportunity Africa Spotlight, a high-profile event within the record-breaking PDAC 2026 convention that convened African governments to discuss the continent’s mining future. Discussions centred on building genuine partnerships to transform the sector while ensuring shared prosperity for African resource producers and global consumers. This year’s edition reinforced Africa’s vital role in the global minerals economy amid rising demand for critical minerals, with particular emphasis on shifting from raw mineral extraction to local beneficiation – an approach projected to generate up to USD 24 billion in annual GDP and create 2.3 million jobs across the continent.

In a bilateral meeting with Hon. Anthony Mavunde, Minister for Minerals of the Republic of Tanzania, the two ministers exchanged perspectives on mineral resource management and explored potential areas of cooperation.

Hon. Sulemana also joined the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) Closing Bell Ceremony and Reception, a prestigious event hosted at the TMX Market Centre in downtown Toronto. The ceremony provided significant visibility, networking opportunities, and a symbolic celebration of corporate achievements. The Deputy Minister engaged directly with capital market experts, corporate executives, and industry leaders during the event.

Accompanied by the Chief Director of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Board Members, and Deputy Chief Executive Officers of the Minerals Commission, Hon. Sulemana visited Ghana’s investment promotion booth. There, he joined Commission officials in interacting with investors and visitors, showcasing Ghana’s mining prospects and reinforcing the country’s position as a premier destination for mining investment.

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