Government Revokes Post-December 7 2024 Small-Scale Mining Licenses
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has revoked all small-scale mining licenses issued after 7 December 2024, reinforcing government efforts to combat illegal mining and protect the environment.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, 19 March 2025, the Minister emphasized that the decision aligns with broader strategies aimed at strengthening environmental protection measures nationwide.
The move follows other regulatory actions, including:
- Stricter controls on excavator imports,
- A ban on floating mining equipment, and
- Additional policies to curb unauthorized mining activities.
Parliamentary Debate Over Mining in Forest Reserves
Simultaneously, Parliament is debating Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, which seeks to revoke presidential authority over forest reserve mining. The discussion has sparked heated disagreements between the majority and minority members.
The existing regulation under L.I. 2462 permitted controlled mining in forest reserves. However, critics argue that it exacerbated environmental destruction and fueled illegal mining activities.
Its repeal is expected to:
- Strengthen forest conservation efforts,
- Enhance environmental management practices, and
- Ensure long-term sustainability of natural resources.
The latest measures demonstrate the government’s renewed commitment to tackling illegal mining and promoting sustainable environmental policies to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.
