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).

<<END OF STORY>>

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).

<<END OF STORY>>

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.

END.

Minerals Commission Pushes Bold Reforms to Ghana’s Mining Laws

Minerals Commission Pushes Bold Reforms to Ghana’s Mining Laws

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The outing Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Mr. Martin Ayisi, on Monday, September 1, 2025, engaged members of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) from the various regions in a spirited conversation about the government’s proposed amendment of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).

The discussion, which comes at a pivotal moment for Ghana’s extractive industry, outlined far-reaching reforms intended to modernize mining regulation, address long-standing inefficiencies, and ensure that communities derive greater benefits from the country’s mineral wealth.

In his keynote remarks, Mr. Ayisi was candid about the motivation behind the reforms. “The Minerals and Mining Act and its regulations have guided our industry for over thirteen years. But along the way, we have faced real implementation challenges. Change is not always about failure—it is also about positioning ourselves to achieve better outcomes,” he said.

He noted that advocacy from civil society organisations, think tanks, and the media had amplified concerns about the poor state of mining communities and the limited national gains despite Ghana’s mineral abundance. For him, the moment had come to “pivot strategically and overhaul the framework”.

The Commission’s boss stressed that Ghana’s mining policies cannot be divorced from wider regional and global realities. He urged caution against oversimplified comparisons with other jurisdictions. “When critics cite Burkina Faso or elsewhere, we must ask: what are their standards? In Ghana, for example, we insist on certified mine managers—a basic requirement that may not apply in other countries. We must avoid a race to the bottom,” he explained.

He also warned that insecurity in neighboring states often spills across borders, reinforcing the need for Ghana’s policies to reflect both domestic priorities and regional dynamics.

Mr. Ayisi took the journalists through key reforms at the heart of the amendment bill, including:

1. Abolition of Development Agreements (DAs) – These special agreements, which shielded companies from certain taxes and levies, will be scrapped. According to him, they prevented the state from benefiting during record commodity booms such as the current $3,000/oz gold price era. “The asymmetry is unacceptable” he said, recalling how stabilisation clauses blocked Ghana’s attempts to capture windfall profits.

2. Shorter Mining Leases – Lease durations will be cut from 30 years to a maximum of 15 years, reflecting the reality that most mines exhaust in under a decade. “30 years leases are excessive and out of step with economic and geological data” he argued.

3. Overhaul of Stabilisation Clauses – Broad investor protections will be abolished, though limited stability clauses may still apply to large-scale, capital-intensive projects such as refineries or major infrastructure.

4. Capping Prospecting Licences – Ghana will end indefinite licence renewals that encourage land hoarding. New limits, likely between 7–9 years, will align the country with global best practices.

5. Mandatory Community Development Agreements (CDAs) – For the first time, companies will be legally required to commit a percentage of revenue—not profit—to host communities. Mr. Ayisi illustrated this with a striking example: “If Newmont Ahafo had committed just 1% of last year’s $1.8 billion revenue, $18 million would have gone directly into local development.”

6. Parliamentary Oversight – He also reaffirmed Ghana’s unique stance of subjecting mining lease cancellations to parliamentary ratification, a safeguard that underscores transparency.

Beyond technical reforms, Mr. Ayisi stressed that the new Act will deliberately mainstream gender considerations and open doors for persons with disabilities to participate meaningfully in mining. “This industry must not only be profitable; it must be inclusive and socially just” he declared.

Adding further depth, Mr. Benjamin Aryee, former CEO of the Commission and Advisor to the Minister, presented a review of the 2014 Mining Policy. His remarks tied the proposed reforms to larger global shifts.

He underscored the importance of Ghana’s Green and Critical Minerals Policy, which aligns the country with surging global demand for transition minerals like lithium. He also emphasized the growing influence of ESG (Environment, Social, and Governance) standards, the impacts of climate change, and the government’s moves to create a new medium-scale mining category alongside cooperative mining initiatives.

“Global trends demand nothing short of a paradigm shift” Mr. Aryee said. He further added “Climate change, the race for critical minerals, and lessons from a decade of implementation compel us to rethink how Ghana manages its mineral endowment”.

Together, the presentations painted a picture of a bold, forward-looking mining sector one that seeks not just foreign investment but also fairness, accountability, and sustainability.

For Ghana, a country long dependent on gold, bauxite, manganese, and more recently, green minerals, the proposed amendments could mark the most significant regulatory shake-up in nearly two decades.

And if the words of Mr. Ayisi and Mr. Aryee are anything to go by, the reforms are not just about fixing old problems. They are about preparing Ghana’s mining sector for the next era of opportunity, one rooted in resilience, inclusivity, and sustainable national growth.

The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor on his part, stressed that responsible regulation is the only way to safeguard communities and protect the nation’s resources.

Speaking at the stakeholder engagement with the Minerals Commission on the proposed amendment of the Minerals and Mining Act, the GJA President commended the Commission’s outgoing Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Martin Ayisi, for his commitment to transforming the industry.

The GJA President recalled that last year he had submitted a report to the Presidency highlighting the urgent need for reforms in the sector. He noted that illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, has become nothing short of a national emergency, wreaking havoc on water bodies, destroying farmlands, and threatening livelihoods.

The Association, he said, sees its role not just as observers but as partners in ensuring accountability. By informing and educating the public, journalists can help citizens understand the implications of mining reforms and push for their full enforcement.

While acknowledging that reforms may have come later than expected, the GJA President stressed that “it is never too late to make the right changes.” He called for consistency, transparency, and active involvement of all stakeholders, including civil society and local communities, in shaping Ghana’s mining future.

The GJA, he assured, will continue to use its platforms to keep the national conversation alive, track progress, and ensure that Ghana’s mineral wealth benefits the wider population rather than a privileged few.

END.

LEADERSHIP TRANSITION

LEADERSHIP TRANSITION

Press Release – Request to Revoke LI 2462

Press Release – Request to Revoke LI 2462.

Minerals Commission Board Concludes Review of New Kumasi Regional Office Complex.

Minerals Commission Board Concludes Review of New Kumasi Regional Office Complex.

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The Minerals Commission Board, under the leadership of Chairman, Ambassador William Ntow Boahene (Esq.), has successfully concluded a strategic working visit to the Kumasi Regional Office as part of its nationwide regional tour. The visit, which follows similar engagements in Tamale and Bole, underscores the Commission’s commitment to decentralisation, operational efficiency, and staff welfare across all mining regions. This event was held on August 22, 2025.

Mr. Paul Dawson, Kumasi Regional Office Manager, together with his dedicated team, extended a warm and cordial welcome to the visiting Board delegation. The reception reflected the team’s enthusiasm and readiness to engage with the Board, setting a positive tone for the day’s activities. Their hospitality underscored the strong spirit of collaboration and professionalism that defines the Kumasi office, reinforcing the Commission’s commitment to fostering unity and shared purpose across its regional operations.

Ambassador Boahene, Chairman of the Board, formally introduced the board members and outlined the purpose of the visit. He emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration between the Board, management, and staff to drive the Commission’s growth and fulfill its mandate. The staff durbar was convened as a platform to engage openly, address concerns, and gather feedback on issues affecting staff welfare.

Present at the meeting were staff from the Head Office, namely: Mr. Emmanuel Kwamena Enyimah, Deputy CEO, Support Services, Mrs. Irene Demanya, Director of Legal and Solicitor Secretary, Emmanuel Nketia Frimpong, Deputy Manager, Estate, Madam Phyllis Adibi, Assistant Manager, Administration, Legal, Emmanuel K. Agyare, Senior Officer, Corporate Affairs and Ms. Amira Dari Iddisah, Assistant Officer, Administration, Legal.

In his remarks, Hon. Yusif Sulemana (MP), Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and Board member, delivered a compelling call to action, urging staff to remain loyal and committed to their duties in advancing the Commission’s mandate. He emphasized that the future of Ghana’s mining sector hinges on the dedication of its workforce and the strategic expansion of technical capacity across regional offices.

Hon. Sulemana underscored the importance of organizing Cooperative Mining in a structured and sustainable manner. He announced that ongoing stakeholder engagements are underway to allocate designated lands for this initiative, ensuring that artisanal and small-scale miners operate within regulated frameworks that promote environmental stewardship and community development.

Addressing the persistent challenge of illegal mining, the Board reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating the menace. They also noted that efforts to reclaim degraded forest reserves and enforce compliance are being intensified, with a multi-agency approach driving results on the ground.

The Board further advocated for a comprehensive overhaul of the licensing regime, stressing the need for timely processing and transparency to reduce bottlenecks in the small-scale mining sector. According to the Board, streamlining these processes will not only curb illegal activities but also enhance investor confidence and operational efficiency. These remarks reflect a forward-looking agenda that blends policy reform, institutional accountability, and inclusive growth—positioning the Minerals Commission as a catalyst for sustainable development in Ghana’s extractive sector.

The Board members expressed deep appreciation for the dedication and professionalism of staff across the Commission. Their collective efforts were recognized as instrumental in advancing Ghana’s mining sector and supporting national development. Hon. Prof. Hamza Adam (MP), urged staff to maintain their steadfast commitment to excellence, emphasizing that sustained performance is key to achieving the Commission’s strategic objectives.

Prof. Gordon Foli highlighted the broader economic significance of the Commission’s work, commending staff for their pivotal role in driving growth and stability within the extractive industry. Nana Adwoa Foriwaa, called for responsible and transparent mineral resource management, underscoring the need to insulate the sector from political interference. She lauded the government’s ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

The staff durbar provided a platform for open dialogue, where key operational concerns were raised, including:

1. Logistical Constraints – the current allocation of vehicles and drivers is insufficient to support effective monitoring across five regions. This limitation is adversely impacting the quality and timeliness of regulatory activities. A request was made for fit-for-purpose vehicles to enhance operational efficiency.
2. Field Risk Allowance – staff engaged in field operations highlighted the need for a dedicated risk allowance, recognizing the hazards associated with their duties.
3. Outstanding Night Allowances – night duty allowances have remained unpaid for over two years, leading to staff demotivation. Concerns were also raised regarding the reconciliation process for these payments, which requires urgent attention.
4. Human Resource and Fleet Management Challenges – managing the fleet of vehicles and drivers continues to pose operational difficulties. Additionally, the Kumasi office currently has only three cleaners, which is inadequate for the new office complex. Staff proposed recruiting additional personnel and regularizing the employment status of existing cleaners from temporary to permanent.
5. Equity in Overnight Allowance Disbursement – instances of perceived discrimination in the disbursement of overnight allowances were reported, with calls for a more transparent and equitable process.
6. Finance Team Risk Allowance – the finance team requested inclusion in the risk allowance scheme, citing their involvement in field-related financial operations.
7. Provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) and Inventory Management – staff emphasized the need for the Commission to consistently supply PPEs. They also recommended a review of inventory and stock-taking procedures to ensure timely availability and accountability.
8. Retention of National Service Personnel (NSPs) – personnel expressed interest in being retained after completing their service period, citing their contributions and desire to continue supporting the Commission’s work.
9. Quarry Site Encroachment – encroachment on designated quarry sites was flagged as a potential national security concern. Staff urged swift intervention to prevent escalation and ensure regulatory control.

In response to the concerns raised by the staff, the Board members stated that they had initiated dialogue with the National Quarry Association to address the pressing issue of concession encroachment. The Board addressed concerns regarding the retention of NSPs, noting that while their contributions are valued, it is not financially feasible to absorb all personnel upon completion of their service.

To ensure a more strategic approach to staffing and resource allocation it was recommended that a comprehensive needs assessment be conducted and submitted to the Head Office for review by management and the Board. The Regional Manager and Head of Administration were tasked to prepare and submit the required documentation to facilitate further discussions and informed decision-making. It was further proposed that, where feasible, each regional office be treated as a cost centre—an approach believed to enhance financial accountability and improve revenue generation.

Ambassador Boahene further announced that the Board is currently reviewing the Commission’s organogram as part of efforts to advance decentralisation. Upon implementation, regional and district offices will be empowered with greater autonomy and operational capacity. The Board Chairman reiterated that the government’s reset agenda must be reflected in the Commission’s strategic direction and day-to-day operations, ensuring alignment with national development priorities.

Nana Yaa Gyandoh I, emphasized the importance of providing a detailed breakdown of staff strength, including gender and other demographics, to inform strategic planning and resource allocation. She expressed concern over the backlog in processing small-scale mining licenses, noting that this challenge continues to hinder operational efficiency. Nana Gyandoh also addressed allegations of bribery and corruption involving staff, stressing that such practices must be decisively curtailed. “We must set the standard right,” she stated, calling for integrity and accountability across all levels of the Commission.

In closing, Hon. Emelia Ankomah (MP) extended her appreciation to the staff for their dedication and reaffirmed the Board’s full support and commitment to addressing the issues raised. She also pledged continued collaboration with management and staff to ensure progress and uphold the Commission’s mandate.

During the visit, the Board also conducted an on-site inspection and a comprehensive project review meeting with Pear River Company Limited (Contractor), Fasota Limited (Consultant), followed by a closed-door technical session to assess progress and address implementation challenges. The Board Chairman, Ambassador Boahene echoed the importance of maintaining quality standards and adhering to timelines, emphasizing that the project must be delivered to the highest standard. The delegation received a detailed briefing on the status of construction and infrastructure enhancements. While the project was not delivered as a turnkey package, the Board commended the overall quality of work executed so far.

It was recommended that key outstanding components (i.e. solar installations, internal partitioning, and the addition of auxiliary works) must be submitted to the Board for final review and approval. With approximately 5% of work remaining, completion is anticipated in the near term, paving the way for full operational readiness of the facility.

The Kumasi visit exemplifies the Board’s hands-on, proactive approach to governance and project management. By moving its deliberations from the national capital to the regional offices, the Commission demonstrates a clear intent to understand field-level realities, drive tangible progress, and strengthen accountability.

END.