Azumah Resources, E&P Mining Lease Dispute Nears Resolution – Lands Minister
The longstanding dispute between Azumah Resources and Engineers & Planners (E&P) over a five-year mining lease is nearing resolution, following direct intervention by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.
Addressing the Government Accountability Series at the Jubilee House on Wednesday, July 23, the Minister revealed that a formal letter issued by his office had catalysed meaningful engagement between the two companies, resulting in significant progress towards a final settlement.
“I am happy to inform you that after that letter, these two companies have really made progress. In fact, I’ve received the letter from Azumah Resources informing me that they will reach a very conclusive agreement with E&P, and that should tell you that that letter has impacted,” Mr Buah stated.
The protracted impasse had delayed the development of a strategic mineral asset in which the government of Ghana holds a 10% carried interest. The Minister expressed concern over the national implications of the delay, citing missed opportunities for revenue mobilisation, taxation, and local economic empowerment.
“Ghana is a shareholder in that enterprise—we have 10% in that enterprise. Any delay in continuing the exploitation of that resource affects the people of Ghana directly, in terms of revenue, taxes, and empowering the people in those areas,” he emphasised.
In a related development, Mr Buah reaffirmed the importance of the Minerals Development Fund (MDF) in promoting equitable development across mining-affected communities. He noted that 20% of all mineral revenue allocations are directed through the MDF to support critical social and economic infrastructure in beneficiary districts.
“The MDF is an institution whose mandate is to supervise the allocation of mineral funds to the mining districts in the country, and they have 20% after the distribution, and that 20% is basically to enrich the lives of people in these mining areas,” he explained.
The near-resolution of the Azumah-E&P impasse is expected to pave the way for the commencement of mining operations, ultimately contributing to government revenue and improving livelihoods in the host communities.
