The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has revoked 278 small-scale mining licenses across the country, citing breaches of mining regulations and expired permits.
The announcement, made by the Ministry’s Spokesperson and Media Relations Officer, Paa Kwesi Schandorf, in a Facebook post on Thursday, October 23, forms part of the government’s renewed efforts to ensure order and accountability within the small-scale mining sector.
According to Mr. Schandorf, the affected operators either failed to comply with environmental and safety standards or continued operations after their licenses had expired.
This decision, reflecting Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah’s commitment to restoring discipline in the industry, comes amid longstanding government concerns about illegal mining—known locally as galamsey—and its damaging effects on the environment and water resources. The move underscores the government’s intensified push for reforms aimed at promoting sustainable and environmentally responsible mining practices.
