Akonta Mining Lacks Valid Permits for Forest Reserve Operations - Minerals Commission

Apr 23, 2025 - 17:43

Accra, Ghana - 23 April, 2025 - Ghana's Minerals Commission has revealed that mining company Akonta has no valid permits to operate in the Tano Nimuni Forest Reserve.

According to the commission, Akonta's application for a mining lease was not signed by the previous minister, and the company lacks a forest entry permit, an environmental permit, and an operating permit.

The commission's findings support calls by Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, for the revocation of Akonta's license due to alleged illegal mining activities in the Nirim Forest Reserve. However, Akonta's management has strongly denied these allegations, describing the minister's directive as "politically motivated".

The Minerals Commission in a statement, emphasized that valid mining operations require a ratified mining lease, an environmental permit from the Environmental Protection Agency, and an operating permit from the Chief Inspector of Mines. Without these permits, any mining activity is considered illegal.

Read the statement from the Minerals Commission below.