TIG Post

Tag: Minerals Commission

  • Damang lease transfer to E&P meets all legal requirements – Minerals Commission

    Damang lease transfer to E&P meets all legal requirements – Minerals Commission

    The Acting Director of Legal Affairs at the Minerals Commission, Josef Iroko, has emphasised that the handover of the Damang mine to Engineers and Planners Limited (E&P) by the government was transparent, competitive, and followed due process.

    His comment comes amid allegations of favouritism in the awarding of the Damang mining lease to Engineers and Planners Limited.

    “The committee went into this work without regard to anybody’s last name, that is the first thing I want to raise. Then secondly, the committee was guided by the Tender Notice Guidelines published by the minister as per regulation 258 of the Minerals and Mining Licensing Regulation 2012, L.I 217.

    So the process has been outlined in the regulations. So the minister published the notice and then told the whole world as to the criteria that any bidder must meet,” Josef Iroko stated during a media engagement on Tuesday, April 7.


    On April 1, the government has initiated the official process to transfer the Damang Gold Mine from Gold Fields to Engineers and Planners after months of dispute over ownership. The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources led a delegation responsible for overseeing the transition process.

    In April 2025, the government announced an agreement with Gold Fields Ghana for a 12-month transitional lease, after Parliamentary approval allowed continued operations under Abosso Goldfields Limited while preparing for the handover.


    The non-renewable lease was explicitly designed to facilitate an orderly transition to state ownership.


    Earlier in May, the company announced it had paused its proposed joint venture with AngloGold Ashanti involving the Tarkwa and Iduapriem mines to focus on maximising Tarkwa’s potential as a standalone asset.


    “We have operated here for 30 years, and we intend to continue for decades to come,” Fraser reiterated.

    Gold Fields posted strong financial and operational results for the first half of 2025. Attributable production rose 24% to 1,136koz, keeping the company on track to meet its annual guidance. Damang is expected to reach commercial production in the third quarter and steady-state production by the fourth quarter of 2025.

    Revenue rose 64% to US$3.48 billion, up from US$2.24 billion during the same period in 2024, driven by a 17% increase in gold sales and a 40% rise in gold prices. No fatalities were recorded across operations, compared to two incidents in the first half of 2024, which the company had previously described as an “unacceptable safety performance.”

    Background

    Parliament earlier approved a one-year transitional lease between the government and Abosso Goldfields Limited for continued operations at Damang in the Wassa West District of the Western Region.
    The initial lease was expected to expire in April 2025 but was extended to April 2026 after stakeholder consultations.

    Moving the motion for ratification, Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah stressed that the lease carried no option for further extension, transfer, or mortgage beyond April 2026.

    Months ago, tensions rose at the Damang Mine as workers feared job losses after news of a government takeover. The Ghana Mine Workers’ Union, representing over 1,000 employees, threatened protests but was assured of job security.

    “We want to assure the hardworking employees, contractors, and service providers at Damang that your dedication has been the backbone of this mine, and it will remain indispensable. Valid contracts will be honoured, wages paid, and operations sustained as we work to regularise arrangements under State stewardship,” the Minister said.

    The decision to assume direct operational control came after Abosso Goldfields Limited failed to meet critical requirements for a lease renewal, including declaring verifiable mineral reserves, presenting a technical programme, and making financial provisions for exploration.

    Despite these setbacks, the government is determined to maintain the mine’s contribution to the economy. “We recognise the importance of Damang Mine to the local economy and the country as a whole. We are committed to ensuring the mine continues to operate efficiently and effectively,” the Minister added.

    To ensure a seamless transition, the government has developed a plan to preserve jobs, support local businesses, and maintain safety and infrastructure. Community engagement and transparency will remain central throughout the process.

    “Regular updates will be provided to keep all stakeholders informed,” Buah assured, adding that the takeover aligns with Ghana’s broader goal to ensure mineral wealth contributes more directly to national development.

  • Ghana’s mining lease reduced to 15 years – Minerals Commission

    Ghana’s mining lease reduced to 15 years – Minerals Commission

    Mining companies face risks of shorter capital-intensive investments following the government’s decision to halve mining leases from the original thirty years to fifteen years as part of a major overhaul of the sector.

    Speaking during a policy roundtable discussion hosted by the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) in Accra, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana’s Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, revealed that his outfit decided to limit lease periods after discovering that most mining companies do not even have ore reserves to last 20–30 years.

    About 80% of the mines have less than 10 years of life remaining unless they invest in further exploration. With this finding, the fifteen-year cap does not automatically become a standard lease period for all companies; rather, each company’s lease will be determined by how much ore it can prove it possesses.

    “…But most importantly, we ran some models, and I realised that, as we speak, if the mining companies don’t do any extensive exploration, about 80% of them will not have more than a 10-year mine life. And I can give examples.

    “On average, only about six companies can do anything more. I can talk about this Chinese mine: if no work is done in two years. But the report they submitted said they have 17 years, and underground 22 years,” he detailed.

    According to him, many of the companies in Ghana do not have enough ore to even last them a decade, let alone three, hence the government’s decision to cap leases at a decade and a half.

    “If you think about all this, all the other companies, even Knight, which is the biggest ore in Africa today, their lifespan is 11 years. So why should we be talking about 30 years? They found some good ore bodies; they’re saying that expansion just adds 8 years’ life, maximum 10 years’ life.

    “So barely can you hit your chest and say you can get about six or seven mines that have maybe 15 years or more. So why should we keep 30 years or even 20 years in our book? So we said no — nobody can get more than 15 years. Now this is what determines, or goes into determining, the duration,” he added.

    Before the government announced the capping of mining leases, companies were granted up to 30 years with the possibility of renewal under the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703). Under this law, mining companies were given a three-year prospecting license, which was reportedly renewable indefinitely, often without rigorous checks. This allowed companies to hold rights without necessarily investing in exploration.

    Mr. Ayisi further explained that, after conducting checks, his outfit discovered most African countries have similar lease times. He noted that many of these countries, such as Kenya, copied Ghana’s mining laws verbatim. However, these laws have not served the sector well, prompting Ghana to chart a new path that could set an example for others.

    Consequently, the new lease period has been capped at fifteen years.

    “It’s never helped us. I did a check around the world. I found an average between 21 and 30 years. Most countries in Africa are between 25 and 30. And a lot of the laws in African countries were basically Ghana’s law. A lot of countries copied from us. I also happen to write many of the laws in East Africa, so I know what I’m talking about. Kenya’s law is just a copycat of Ghana’s. We just do it for them. Mining is basically in Ghana.

    One was in French, one was in English, etc., and some of them have gone to….. So we have decided that the upper limit of mining should be 15 years. We have the record in the world in terms of how far you can go. And don’t get me wrong — when we say the limit, it doesn’t mean the record will get 15 years. So we are dropping it from 30 to 15 years. Very significant for us,” the CEO mentioned.

    The government will now determine the lease period each mining company is entitled to. The commission in charge of mining will base its decision on how much mineral the company has proven it can mine and what its feasibility studies reveal.

    “So when a company does exploration: ‘I’ve done exploration for this number of years, I found some good ore, I’ve been able to convert many of my resources — let’s say a million ounces.’ It says, okay, my feasibility, they tell you everything there — the type of mineral, impact, social, whatever. …” he mentioned.

    Still on mining, His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama has appointed three distinguished professionals to the GoldBod Tribunals. This was announced in a post shared on the authority’s official Facebook page yesterday, Tuesday, August 19. The inauguration ceremony was held at the Ministry of Finance in Accra, where the Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, swore in the members of the tribunal.

    The tribunal members who were inaugurated are Biadela Mortey Akpadzi (Chairman), Hamidu Mariam (Member), and Justin Pwavra Teriwajah (Member). The tribunal has been charged with the task of “considering appeals regarding decisions made by the Gold Board, matters relating to licensing under the Act, and rulings of the Dispute Resolution Committee.”

    GoldBod is the official regulatory authority overseeing Ghana’s artisanal and small-scale gold sector. In a recent development, the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) on Tuesday, July 29, handed over seventeen (17) gold bars valued at $1.7 million to the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod).

    At the Ministry of the Interior in Accra, the gold bars seized by officers of the Upper East Command of the Narcotics Control Commission at the Paga Border Post from two Burkinabe nationals who were attempting to smuggle them out of the country were received by the Chief Executive Officer of GoldBod, Sammy Gyamfi (Esq.).

    The handing-over ceremony was witnessed by the Chief Director of the Ministry, Mrs. Doreen Annan; the Director General of NACOC, Brigadier General Maxwell Obuba Mantey; and other senior officials from NACOC and GoldBod.

    This development comes after the Acting Chief Executive Officer of GoldBod, Mr. Sammy Gyamfi (Esq.), stressed that persons who engage in gold trading without GoldBod licenses after June 21 would be prosecuted. He made this clear during a meeting with the Chamber of Licensed Gold Buyers.

    “As we have announced, by the 21st of this month, we shall ensure that only holders of GoldBod licenses are able to buy gold, and so if you are not licensed by the GoldBod, you cannot buy gold after June 21st. It will constitute a punishable offence to do so.”

    Mr. Gyamfi urged gold buyers to forge partnerships that will boost compliance with the new GoldBod licensing regime. The acting CEO noted that the process for registering has been made seamless and free of corruption.

    “We have removed the human interface element, and so there is no corruption, bribery, inducements, or favouritism. It is a very transparent and competitive process, and once you qualify, you get the license. I don’t take or demand bribes before I issue a license.”

  • 159 hectares of reclaimed mining sites handed over to communities by Minerals Commission

    159 hectares of reclaimed mining sites handed over to communities by Minerals Commission

    The Minerals Commission has officially handed over 159 hectares of reclaimed mining sites to seven communities in the Ashanti Region during a ceremony held at Asiwa in the Bosome Freho District.

    The reclaimed lands are part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to restore degraded mining sites under its Land Reclamation and Restoration Programme.

    The restored lands, totaling 159 hectares, are located in various communities including Asiwa, Adakabunso, Yapeesa Kokoben, Anyinase, and Adakabunso 2 within the Bosome Freho District. Other reclaimed sites are in Beposo, Bosomtwe District, and Odumase in the Asante-Akim Central Municipality.

    The reclamation initiative, undertaken by the government through the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission, aims to reverse the environmental damage caused by mining while improving the socio-economic conditions of the affected communities.

    So far, the Commission has successfully restored 493 hectares of degraded lands across the Ashanti, Western North, and Central Regions, furthering the goal of land restoration and enhancing livelihoods in mining-affected areas.

    The ceremony, which marked the completion of the reclamation in the Ashanti Region, brought together key stakeholders, including traditional leaders from the seven beneficiary communities. In his address, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Samuel Tika, emphasized the crucial role mining plays in Ghana’s economic growth while stressing the importance of land restoration after mining activities.

    “Mining has long been an essential driver for the growth of the Ghanaian economy, providing resources that promoted innovation and spur national growth. However, mining comes with the responsibility to protect and restore lands affected by mining activities,” Tika stated.

    He noted that the reclamation process signifies the end of mine closure but also provides an opportunity to heal the earth, transforming disturbed landscapes into thriving ecosystems that can benefit communities for generations.

    “Successful reclamation involves careful planning, innovative techniques, and collaboration with environmental experts and local communities. We must engage in meaningful dialogues to understand community needs and aspirations, ensuring that our reclamation efforts align with their desire for a healthier and more vibrant future,” he said.

    Tika further highlighted the Commission’s efforts in reintroducing traditional vegetation, implementing sustainable practices, and ensuring the proper management of local ecology and hydrology through the reclamation process.

    “We have seen firsthand the positive impact that responsible reclamation can have, not just on the landscape but in restoring the trust and support of communities we serve,” he added.

    He also urged chiefs from the various communities to take responsibility for the reclaimed lands and protect them to ensure the long-term benefits of the government’s investment.

    “Let us also remember that our commitment to reclamation should extend beyond our own projects. We have a responsibility to share our knowledge and expertise with others in the mining sector. By fostering a collective approach, we can elevate the standards of reclamation across the mining industry and ensure that we all contribute to a more sustainable future,” Tika urged.

    The District Chief Executive for Bosome Freho, Kofi Adu Amoateng, also spoke at the ceremony, calling for collective efforts to combat illegal mining, which has become a national problem. He highlighted the reclaimed sites as symbols of hope and opportunities for the communities and emphasized the importance of protecting them from illegal miners.

    “The once-neglected mining sites now symbolize hope and opportunities for the communities. We must protect them and ensure they are not exploited by illegal miners,” said Adu Amoateng, commending the government and the Minerals Commission for their significant efforts.

    Consultant for the project, Thomas Tsiboe-Darko, praised the reclamation as a commitment to ecological recovery and sustainable development. He acknowledged the vital roles played by the communities, especially the chiefs, and called for continued community ownership of the project for the benefit of future generations.

    Nana Korteabofour Dom II, representing the Kokofumanhene, expressed the commitment of the communities to safeguard the reclaimed lands and ensure their sustainable development.

  • We don’t want the power to bear arms – Minerals Commission boss on galamsey

    We don’t want the power to bear arms – Minerals Commission boss on galamsey

    Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, has made it clear that the Commission is not seeking additional authority to bear arms in the fight against illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.

    Instead, he emphasized the need for more resources to effectively address the ongoing crisis.

    During a public hearing before Parliament’s Assurance Committee on October 7, Mr. Ayisi expressed frustration over the lack of action from law enforcement despite numerous reports submitted about illegal mining activities.

    He cited the example of officers at the Anyinam Police Station, who, despite being informed on multiple occasions about mining operations happening right behind their premises, have taken no action to stop them.

    “We have reported several times that people are engaging in illegal mining activities right behind the Anyinam Police Station, without our permission. So, how is it that the police are not taking any action? The Minerals Commission has done its part by notifying them,” Mr. Ayisi said.

    He further acknowledged that while the Minerals Commission is not without fault, especially in cases where individuals with legitimate licenses may have made mistakes, its responsibility ends after reporting such issues to the appropriate authorities.

    “I’m not saying we’re perfect, or that we haven’t made errors. There are times when people with licenses make mistakes, and that’s why we have inspectors. Once we report illegal activity to the right institution, like the police, our job is done,” he added.

    Addressing calls for the Commission to be given the power to bear arms, Mr. Ayisi said such a move would require significant changes in government policies, which he believes would be unnecessary and excessive. He pointed out that the Forestry Commission already bears arms but questioned how individuals are still managing to access forests without proper licenses.

    “If we have to request more powers to bear arms, government policies would have to change, and that would be too much for us. Look at the number of water bodies in the country. The Forestry Commission bears arms, yet people still enter forests and engage in illegal activities without licenses. I will not ask the government to give us powers to bear arms,” he stated.

    Instead, Mr. Ayisi stressed the need for more resources for the Minerals Commission to effectively carry out its mandate. “What the Minerals Commission needs are more resources, and I’m getting them anyway. But no one can say it is enough,” he concluded.

    The Minerals Commission, established under the Minerals Commission Act of 1993, Act 450, plays a critical role in formulating recommendations for national policy concerning the exploration and exploitation of mineral resources. Among its many functions, the Commission advises the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, monitors government policies on minerals, and oversees the operations of entities responsible for mineral exploitation. The Commission also processes applications for mineral rights and reviews agreements related to mineral resources, helping to ensure informed national decision-making on mining activities.

    Despite the Commission’s efforts, Mr. Ayisi’s remarks highlight the challenges faced in the battle against illegal mining, particularly the need for stronger enforcement of laws by security agencies and better resources for institutions tasked with protecting Ghana’s natural resources.

  • Police ignoring our reports on galamsey – Minerals Commission CEO laments

    Police ignoring our reports on galamsey – Minerals Commission CEO laments

    Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, has expressed frustration over the lack of response from the police regarding numerous reports submitted about illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.

    Mr Martin Ayisi lamented that despite the Commission’s ongoing efforts to combat the rampant issue threatening Ghana’s natural resources and water bodies, law enforcement has consistently failed to act on the documented instances of illegal mining.

    In a public hearing before Parliament’s Assurance Committee on October 7, he indicated that officers at the Anyinam Police Station have time without number been informed of mining activities happening behind their edifice, however, no step has been taken by the security officers to address the issue.

    He remarked, “We have reported severally that behind Anyinam Police Station people are doing some there which we have not permitted. So how come the Police is not taking action? So it’s like we have told you galamsey is happening…respectfully, the Minerals Commission has done its work.”

    “I am not saying we have also not let the government down or we are hundred percent right. I have told you that there are instances that people have the licenses and have made mistakes. That is why there are inspectors Once the Minerals Commission makes it known to the appropriate institution that this person, people are working here in the night, our job ends there,” Mr Ayisi added.

    Mr. Ayisi stated that seeking additional authority to bear arms would necessitate changes in government policies, which would be excessive for the Commission. He pointed out the numerous water bodies in the country, and questioned how individuals without licenses are still accessing forests, despite the Forestry Commission already having the power to bear arms.

    “If we have to seek for more powers to bear arms and all those things, then government policies would have to change and that would be too much for us. Look at the number of water bodies in this country, respectively Forestry Commission bears arms so how are people entering the forests to do what they are doing when they don’t have licenses. I will not ask government to give us powers to go and bear arms. If anything, Minerals Commission needs resources, which I am getting anyway. No one can say it is enough,” he said.

    The Minerals Commission Act of 1993, Act 450, outlines the essential functions of the Commission. Among its primary responsibilities is the formulation of recommendations for national policy concerning the exploration and exploitation of mineral resources, emphasizing the establishment of national priorities while considering the national economy. The Commission is also tasked with advising the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources on various mineral-related matters and monitoring the implementation of government policies on minerals, providing reports to the Minister as necessary.

    Additionally, the Commission monitors the operations of all entities responsible for minerals and is responsible for receiving and assessing public agreements related to mineral resources, reporting these findings to Parliament. It aims to establish a solid foundation for comprehensive data collection on the nation’s mineral resources and the technologies involved in their exploration and exploitation, which is crucial for informed national decision-making. The Commission may also perform other functions as assigned by the Minister.

    To fulfill these responsibilities, the Commission engages in several activities. These include investigating the background of mineral rights applications, processing these applications, and recommending their approval or denial to the Minister responsible for Mines. The Commission reviews agreements concerning minerals and collects, collates, and analyzes data related to the operations of mining companies to aid in decision-making and dissemination.

    The Ghana Police Service has several key functions that are crucial to maintaining peace and security within the country. Primarily, the Service is responsible for the prevention and detection of crime, ensuring that potential criminal activities are thwarted before they occur and that existing crimes are investigated effectively. Additionally, the apprehension and prosecution of offenders form a vital part of the Service’s responsibilities, as it works to bring individuals who violate the law to justice.

    Another critical function of the Ghana Police Service is the maintenance of law and order. This involves managing public gatherings, controlling riots or disturbances, and ensuring that citizens can exercise their rights peacefully. Furthermore, the Service is dedicated to the protection of life and property, working to create a safe environment for all citizens.

    The overarching mandate of the Ghana Police Service is to protect and preserve the internal security of the country through effective law enforcement. By fulfilling its functions, the Service aims to foster a sense of safety and security, contributing to the overall stability and well-being of Ghanaian society.

    https://www.facebook.com/Parliament.of.Ghana/videos/1168283417599905
  • Localisation of small-scale miners can end galamsey – Minerals Commission

    Localisation of small-scale miners can end galamsey – Minerals Commission

    The Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Mr. Martin Kwaku Ayisi, has emphasized that the issue of illegal small-scale mining, commonly known as galamsey, will persist until specific designated areas are allocated for small-scale miners to operate legally.

    He stated that, in addition to granting licenses, it is essential to return licenses that have been revoked to their rightful owners. By doing so, these miners can be properly regulated, preventing any harm to water bodies and the environment.

    While addressing the Assurance Committee of Parliament on October 7, Mr. Ayisi clarified that small-scale mining is exclusively for Ghanaians, highlighting that any foreign involvement is deemed illegal.

    He pointed out that Acts 900 and 995 clearly define this restriction, stating that soliciting foreign participation in small-scale mining also constitutes illegal activity.

    In contrast, large-scale mining is open to both Ghanaians and foreigners.

    He elaborated on the rise of illegal small-scale mining, noting that it currently occurs in approximately 12 to 13 regions across Ghana. When he first joined the commission, only five regions—Ashanti, Central, Eastern, Western, and Upper East were involved. Although laws like the Small Scale Gold Law of 1989 and the Mercury Law were passed, they have not been implemented effectively.

    The commission has also established offices in Dunkwa, Bibiani, Tarkwa, and Bolgatanga to support these efforts.

    Mr. Ayisi was candid in his remarks to the committee, stating that until the underlying issues are addressed, galamsey will not cease. He referenced the historical context of small-scale mining laws, mentioning that from the colonial era through the Nkrumah and PNDC periods, lawful small-scale mining has been nearly impossible. He pointed out that over the past 30 years, successive governments have failed to create an effective framework, resulting in a lack of exploration since 1989.

    “The small-scale mining is open to Ghanaians only so any foreigner who is involved in small scale is illegal. if you look at Act 900 and 995 it is even so strange that they even go ahead to say that anybody who goes ahead to solicit for a foreigner to engage in small-scale mining amounts to illegal mining. so it is strictly for Ghanaians. either a man or woman or an adult. The large scale is open to everybody either foreigners or anybody.”

    Explaining what occasioned the illegal small-scale mining (Galamsey), Mr Ayisi said “Small-scale mining taking place in about 12 or 13 regions in Ghana. When I joined the commission it was just five regions  – Ashanti, Central , Eastern, Western which included or covered Western North and Upper East. These were the five regions and we passed the Small Scale Gold Law 1989 and even passed the Mercuruy Law but not the way we are supposed to use it today and also the PMC Law 219, so 217, 219, 218 were passed to regulate small-scale and then we created offices  at Dunkwa, Bibiani, Tarkwa and then Bolga offices

    “To delve into our biggest challenge, I will be very blunt with the committee, until that problem is resolved galamsey will not end. In 1986, Prof Akilapa Sawyer, he is still alive, he was the board chair of the Minerals Commission, the CEO was Mr Kofi Ansah also alive. Right from the colonial era through out the ay Nkrumah to the PNDC era, you cant do small-scale mining lawfully so when we sold off the state-owned mines under Kwasi Botchwey because we badly managed them just like GIHOC Ghana Airways and Co, we sold Tarkwa, we sold Prestea, we sold Dunkwa Continental, Akwatia, mines all of them were sold.

    “So for 30 years, three decades, government after government did not do it. I remember them, a young lawyer at the Minerals Commission, since 1989 we have not been doing exploration. So if you ask me as an officer of the Minerals Commission, 2nd April 2002, being 22 and half years now, the fundamental cause of illegal smiling or galamsey is getting a place for the miners to work. Until that is resolved we will only go around in the circus.”

    Explaining how this can be done, he said “through the graciousness of the large-scale people, AngloGold Ashanti, Newmont, Gold Fields, and co, give us a place, and then we license it for them. secondly, the persons  whose licenses have been canceled for want of performance, we give it to them. Number three, where by law you are given an area to explore, after three years you are supposed to give half back to the government or to the Minerals Commission so when those ones are returned they come with a surrender report, we give it back to the small scale people.

    “The last one is where some of the large-scale people come to us and say we have done a lot of exploration and we want it very big so Minerals Commission, take it and give it out then quickly we plot it, designate it and give it out.”

  • Ablakwa presents polluted water from 13 galamsey-struck rivers to Minerals Commission CEO

    Ablakwa presents polluted water from 13 galamsey-struck rivers to Minerals Commission CEO

    During a public hearing held on October 7, 2024, the Assurances Committee of Parliament highlighted the dire impact of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, on Ghana’s water bodies.

    The committee’s chairman, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, presented samples of polluted water collected from 13 rivers and streams to the CEO of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi. Notably, only the Volta River remained unpolluted, while all other rivers visited such as Subri River, River Offin, and Oda River had been severely affected by irresponsible mining activities.

    Mr Ablakwa urged Ayisi to reconsider the Minerals Commission’s position, which currently opposes the widespread calls from Ghanaians to ban all forms of small-scale mining.

    He also called for an immediate halt to the recommendation of new mining licenses to the Lands Minister. The committee expressed concern over the lack of adequate support for the Minerals Commission from security services in their efforts to combat illegal mining.

    Mr Ayisi revealed that despite numerous reports filed about illegal mining activities, including ongoing operations near the Anyinam Police Station in the Atiwa East District, little action has been taken to address these issues. He emphasized the frustration felt by the Commission, as many reports have gone unheeded, allowing destructive galamsey activities to continue unchecked.

    In response to the committee’s inquiries, Mr Ayisi promised to investigate several concerns, including reports of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) obtaining mining licenses within their jurisdictions. He is expected to present the findings of these investigations to the committee in due course.

  • Not issuing licenses will breed intense galamsey activities – Minerals Commission CEO

    Not issuing licenses will breed intense galamsey activities – Minerals Commission CEO

    Chief Executive of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, has voiced his opposition to calls for a moratorium on issuing new mining licenses, citing concerns that such a decision could worsen the illegal mining crisis.

    Responding to civil society organizations and environmentalists who are advocating for the revocation of L.I. 2462 which allows mining in forest reserves Ayisi emphasized that halting new licenses would drive individuals towards illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as “galamsey.”

    “When you don’t give them the licenses, what they would do is that – they would go and to do it illegally. To say that we shouldn’t grant licenses, that would be a problem,” he argued.

    While testifying before Parliament’s Assurance Committee on Monday, October 7, Ayisi argued that denying licenses would not solve the problem but rather exacerbate it.

    He also noted that delays in the licensing process contribute to the illegal mining issue, emphasizing that withholding licenses could lead to increased illegal operations.

    Moreover, Ayisi acknowledged that even licensed mining companies sometimes fail to adhere to regulations, which highlights the necessity for rigorous monitoring and evaluation of compliance.

    Additionally, he pointed out ongoing illegal mining activities, including instances of ‘galamsey’ occurring behind a police station in Anyinam, Atiwa East District, where he criticized law enforcement for not taking action to address the issue.

  • We issue mining licenses to stop galamsey – Minerals Commission CEO

    We issue mining licenses to stop galamsey – Minerals Commission CEO

    The Chief Executive of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, has voiced opposition to calls for halting the issuance of new mining licenses amid rising demands for government action against illegal mining activities.

    According to Ayisi, stopping the issuance of new licenses could exacerbate the ongoing illegal mining crisis. His comments came in response to civil society groups and environmentalists urging the government to revoke L.I. 2462, which permits mining in forest reserves, and to cease granting new licenses to mining companies.

    During his appearance before Parliament’s Assurance Committee on Monday, October 7, Ayisi argued that withholding licenses would drive individuals into illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey,” as a means to continue their operations. “When you don’t give them the licenses, what they would do is that – they would go and do it illegally. To say that we shouldn’t grant licenses, that would be a problem,” he stated.

    He further emphasized that delays in issuing mining licenses contribute to the illegal mining problem, asserting that withholding licenses would only worsen the situation. Ayisi acknowledged that even licensed companies do not always adhere to mining regulations, underscoring the need for strict monitoring and evaluation.

    Additionally, he highlighted ongoing illegal mining activities, specifically noting that ‘galamsey’ operations were taking place behind a police station in Anyinam, Atiwa East District, and criticized the police for their inaction in addressing the issue.

  • Minerals Commission working on certification of Community Mining Scheme – Lands Minister

    Minerals Commission working on certification of Community Mining Scheme – Lands Minister

    The government’s intensified fight against illegal mining (galamsey) is set to reach new heights as the Minerals Commission moves to expedite the certification of the Community Mining Scheme, a key initiative aimed at sustainable mineral exploitation.

    This was disclosed by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, during a media briefing on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, as part of the government’s renewed efforts to eradicate galamsey.

    At the meeting, Mr Jinapor outlined the government’s commitment to tackling the menace, reassuring the media that efforts are being ramped up.

    He explained that the government’s strategy involves two critical pillars: the enforcement of mining regulations and the reformation of the sector to promote sustainable practices.

    “The fight against galamsey is typified by two result-making models: reformation of the sector and enforcement of the rules,” the Minister stated.

    The enforcement pillar includes the deployment of the Operation Halt taskforce, the decommissioning of illegal mining equipment such as excavators, and the imprisonment of individuals convicted of illegal mining activities. Jinapor emphasized that these measures are essential for curbing the rampant destruction caused by illegal mining.

    The reformation aspect, which seeks to offer socio-economic empowerment to former illegal miners, is anchored on the government’s Community Mining Scheme. According to the Minister, this initiative, coupled with improvements in the licensing regime and the introduction of mercury-free machines, is designed to transform the sector and provide more sustainable avenues for mining.

    “The Community Mining Scheme, improvement of the licensing regime, and issuance of mercury-free machines are some of the measures taken by the government,” Jinapor added, underlining the importance of transitioning miners from illegal operations to more regulated, environmentally friendly mining practices.

    In his remarks, the Minister also emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration, noting that the Ministry has engaged with regional ministers and will hold talks with national security agencies, including the Ghana Armed Forces, to ensure the strict enforcement of mining laws.

    The Minister expressed confidence that these combined efforts would lead to lasting success in the fight against galamsey. He added that the Minerals Commission has been tasked to accelerate the certification process for the Community Mining Scheme, which has received the endorsement of the World Bank as a more sustainable model for mineral exploitation.

    “Inter-agency collaborations will be a key component in ensuring the success of this renewed fight,” Jinapor stated.

  • Gold exports set to reach US$10bn by year-end – Minerals Commission CEO

    Gold exports set to reach US$10bn by year-end – Minerals Commission CEO

    Gold exports reached an all-time high in the first half of 2024.

    Martin Ayisi, Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, reported that gold made up 54% of the total exports, totaling US$5 billion out of the US$9.2 billion exported in the first half of 2024.

    This increase was driven by a sharp rise in gold prices, particularly in the second quarter of 2024, along with a boost in production from both small- and large-scale mining operations.

    In the second quarter, the average price of gold hit a record $2,338 per ounce, marking an 18% increase compared to the previous year and a 13% rise from the previous quarter.

    The average gold price for July is approximately US$2,396 per ounce, with a record high of US$2,482 per ounce achieved on July 17, 2024.

    Mr. Ayisi has forecasted that if gold prices remain at or near July’s average or the second quarter’s level, the annual gold export value could surpass US$10 billion.

    He noted that small-scale mining exports for the first half of the year totaled around US$1.7 billion, representing roughly 36% of the gold exported by mid-year.

    Mr. Ayisi anticipates that, driven by the record high prices, small-scale mining exports might exceed US$3 billion by year’s end.

    According to Mr. Ayisi, the revenue from gold underscores the mining sector’s crucial role in Ghana’s economy.

    He emphasized that the true economic benefits of mining come from value addition, citing examples such as lithium, bauxite, manganese, and local gold refining.

    Mr. Ayisi expressed particular satisfaction with the government’s robust policy on value addition, including the planned $450 million refinery by Ghana Manganese Company, which aims to enhance manganese ore quality from 27% to 40%, create 350 additional jobs, and boost revenue.

    He also highlighted new initiatives focused on local content and participation, ensuring that over US$2 billion spent by mining companies on local supplies and services directly benefits Ghanaians.

    Additionally, he praised the government’s efforts to encourage mining companies to list on the Ghana Stock Exchange to raise capital for projects and lauded the Minerals Income Investment Fund’s role in securing equity stakes in mines, which supports increased state and Ghanaian involvement in the sector.

    Mr. Ayisi urged improved environmental management for small-scale mining, which operates in about 12 regions and supports approximately three million livelihoods, to prevent environmental damage.

  • Gold exports raked in $5bn for Ghana in first half of 2024 – Minerals Commission

    Gold exports raked in $5bn for Ghana in first half of 2024 – Minerals Commission

    Ghana’s gold exports generated $5 billion in the first half of 2024, as reported by Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Mr. Martin Ayisi.

    This figure reflects a significant portion of the country’s total export value of $9.2 billion for the same period, with gold accounting for 54% of the total.

    The surge in gold exports is attributed to a dramatic increase in gold prices, which averaged $2,338 per ounce in the second quarter of 2024—an 18% rise compared to the previous year and a 13% increase from the previous quarter.

    The price of gold reached a peak of $2,482 per ounce on July 17, 2024, and averaged around $2,396 per ounce in July.

    Mr. Ayisi forecasted that if gold prices maintain their current levels, Ghana could see gold export revenues surpass $10 billion by the end of the year.

    Martin Ayisi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission

    He noted that small-scale mining contributed approximately $1.7 billion to the total gold exports, representing 36% of the mid-year total. With the record prices, small-scale gold exports are projected to exceed $3 billion by year-end.

    Highlighting the vital role of the mining sector in Ghana’s economy, Mr. Ayisi underscored that the revenue from gold reaffirms the sector’s importance.

    He emphasized that value addition is crucial for maximizing economic benefits, pointing to initiatives such as the Ghana Manganese Company’s planned $450 million refinery, which aims to enhance the quality of manganese ore and create 350 new jobs.

    Additionally, Mr. Ayisi praised efforts to boost local content and participation in the mining sector, including encouraging mining companies to list on the Ghana Stock Exchange and the role of the Minerals Income Investment Fund in acquiring equity stakes in mining operations.

    He also stressed the need for better environmental management in small-scale mining operations, which support around three million livelihoods across 12 regions, to ensure sustainable practices and mitigate environmental impact.

  • Gov’t to generate over $10bn from gold exports by end of 2024 – Minerals Commission

    Gov’t to generate over $10bn from gold exports by end of 2024 – Minerals Commission

    Ghana is set to surpass $10 billion in gold exports by the end of 2024, according to the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Mr. Martin Ayisi.

    This forecast is driven by record-breaking gold prices and increased production across both small- and large-scale mining operations.

    For the first half of 2024, gold exports contributed a substantial 54% to the total export value of $9.2 billion, amounting to $5 billion.

    This surge is attributed to an average gold price of $2,338 per ounce in the second quarter, marking an 18% increase year-on-year and a 13% rise quarter-on-quarter.

    The price peaked at a record $2,482 per ounce on July 17, 2024, with July’s average standing at approximately $2,396 per ounce.

    Mr. Ayisi projected that if gold prices remain consistent with July’s averages, the full-year export value could exceed $10 billion.

    He also highlighted that small-scale mining exports totaled about $1.7 billion for the first half of the year, representing 36% of the total gold exports. Given the high prices, small-scale gold exports could surpass $3 billion by year-end.

    Emphasizing the importance of the mining sector to Ghana’s economy, Mr. Ayisi noted that gold revenue underscores the sector’s role as a cornerstone of national economic stability.

    He stressed that the real economic benefits of mining come from value addition. He pointed to the development of local refining capabilities, such as the Ghana Manganese Company’s $450 million investment in a new refinery to enhance manganese ore quality and create 350 jobs.

    Mr. Ayisi also praised the government’s initiatives to bolster local content and participation in the mining sector, which include ensuring that over $2 billion spent by mining companies on local supplies and services benefits Ghanaians.

    Furthermore, he acknowledged efforts to encourage mining companies to list on the Ghana Stock Exchange and the role of the Minerals Income Investment Fund in acquiring equity stakes in mines.

    Addressing environmental concerns, Mr. Ayisi called for improved environmental management of small-scale mining operations, which are active in about 12 regions and support around three million livelihoods, to prevent ecological damage.

  • No foreigner has been granted mining concessions without proper consultations – Minerals Commission

    No foreigner has been granted mining concessions without proper consultations – Minerals Commission

    The Minerals Commission has strongly denied allegations made by Yusif Sulemana, the Member of Parliament for Bole-Bamboi, against the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor.

    Mr Sulemana had accused the Minister of granting mining concessions to foreign entities without proper consultation, sparking controversy and tension in the Bole-Bamboi constituency.

    In a press release dated Monday, June 24, the Minerals Commission described the allegations as “baseless and unfounded,” asserting that they lack credibility and should not come from a lawmaker.

    The Commission emphasized that all procedures are in strict adherence to the Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) and the Minerals and Mining (Licensing) Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2176), which mandate thorough consultation with all relevant parties before granting any mineral rights.

    According to the Commission, the process begins with the publication of a notice in the Gazette upon receiving an application for a mineral right.

    Copies of this notice are then distributed to the relevant landowners, Chiefs, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), and other stakeholders, giving them the opportunity to raise any concerns.

    Yusif Sulemana had claimed that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources allocated lands to over seven large-scale miners in the Bole-Bamboi constituency without proper stakeholder consultations.

    Yusif Sulemana, the Member of Parliament for Bole-Bamboi

    He alleged that this oversight had led to clashes, with some New Patriotic Party (NPP) executives reportedly assaulted by soldiers guarding the mining sites.

    Mr Sulemana highlighted the extensive mineral activities in the constituency, including both formal and informal (galamsey) operations, and pointed to the heavy equipment brought in by large-scale miners as a source of tension.

    “It is an issue that we are all worried about. It’s on record that from the beginning of our constituency, that is Bamboi, and to the end of it, has plenty of mineral companies on both the right and left sides of the road and so of course, we have some galamsey activities going on there,” he stated.

    “Unfortunately, from February to date, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has allocated the lands to over seven large-scale miners and the problem was that there were no proper stakeholder consultations. And so the youth are there, and they will see heavy equipment coming to take over what they are doing and that is where the clash is coming from.”

    The Minerals Commission, however, refuted these claims, reiterating its commitment to legal and regulatory procedures.

    “The attention of the Minerals Commission (“the Commission”) has been drawn to publications in a section of the media, attributed to the Member of Parliament for the Bole-Bamboi Constituency, Yusif Sulemana, accusing the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission of granting mining concessions to foreigners without proper consultations. The said accusations, claims and/or allegations are false, baseless, and unfounded,” the Commission stated.

    The Commission’s statement continued: “The Commission wishes to state, categorically, that in accordance with the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) and the Minerals and Mining (Licensing) Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2176), no mineral right is granted without consultation with the relevant persons and institutions to be affected by the mineral operation.”

    The Commission urged the public to disregard the false narrative propagated by the MP and reaffirmed its dedication to transparency and stakeholder engagement in all mining-related activities.

    RE-BOLE-MP-ACCUSES-LANDS-MINISTERDownload
  • Ultra-modern Minerals Commission Office at Akim-Oda commissioned

    Ultra-modern Minerals Commission Office at Akim-Oda commissioned

    The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, has inaugurated a state-of-the-art office complex for the Minerals Commission in Akim Oda.

    This new facility aims to enhance the commission’s monitoring and regulatory activities within the Birim Central Municipality and the broader Eastern Region.

    In his address at the inauguration ceremony on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, Mr Jinapor emphasized that the establishment of this well-equipped office is part of the government’s broader strategy to decentralize the operations of the Minerals Commission, bringing their services closer to mining operators and local communities.

    Highlighting the history and importance of the Akim Oda office, Mr. Jinapor mentioned that it is among the first offices to be established in the country. He underscored that the construction of this modern office signifies the Akufo-Addo administration’s dedication to rejuvenating the mining sector by fostering sustainable and environmentally responsible mining practices.

    The new office is expected to significantly enhance the Minerals Commission’s ability to effectively supervise mining activities in Akim Oda and its surrounding areas.

    Furthermore, the Minister announced that under President Akufo-Addo’s administration, the reach of the Minerals Commission has expanded considerably. This expansion includes the construction of four new district offices, twelve satellite offices, and two observatory offices, illustrating the government’s commitment to strengthening the regulatory framework for the mining sector.

    “In addition to overseeing small-scale mining operations in Akim Oda, this office will supervise mining activities in Akwatia, Anyinam, Osinor, Asamantafo, Kade, Adankrono, among others. These areas have a long history of community mining. I am pleased that we have been able to construct this multi-purpose edifice for the people of Akim Oda.

    “I am informed that the construction has been completed to standard, and measures have been put in place to ensure that the office is properly maintained for effective service delivery,” he said.

    Mr. Jinapor thrilled the audience by announcing the upcoming launch of the Community Mining Scheme (CMS) in Akim Oda. He highlighted that the construction of the new office has set the stage for establishing a CMS concession.

    He also recognized the Member of Parliament for Akim Oda, Alexander Kwasi Aquah, for his instrumental role in making the office and the CMS a reality, and assured the gathering that the concession would be announced soon.

    “With this fully furnished office commissioned, I want to assure you that Akim Oda will soon have a community mining scheme. The MP has been persistent, and I am here to announce that Akim Oda will soon benefit from a Community Mining Scheme. This office will definitely monitor the operations of the Community Mining Scheme.”

    Chairperson of the Minerals Commission Board, Barbara Oteng Gyasi, stated, “We were tasked by the president to regularize mining to benefit every Ghanaian and protect our environment. To achieve that, we had to expand our offices across the country to be closer to the mining companies, especially the small-scale mining companies, to effectively monitor their activities.

    The Minerals Commission undertook an expansion project to increase our district, regional, and satellite officers across the country. We recognize that the Eastern Region is critical in our mining footprint, and to effectively monitor all activities, we must ensure that Minerals Commission offices are present in many areas of the Eastern Region.”

    Oseadieyo Dr. Frimpong Manso IV, the Paramount Chief of the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area, expressed his delight at the upcoming Community Mining Scheme (CMS) and commended the Lands Minister for addressing the requests of the MP and the local residents.

    He highlighted the importance of mining as a key economic activity for the community and pledged to ensure strict adherence to the country’s mining regulations.

    The two-story office, which began construction in 2022 and is estimated to cost GH¢5 million, includes four washrooms, two large storerooms, a kitchen on each floor, a conference hall, and other amenities designed to enhance the welfare of the staff and enable them to perform their duties with the highest efficiency.

  • Lands Minister to commission Minerals Commission’s Ashanti Regional Office by October

    Lands Minister to commission Minerals Commission’s Ashanti Regional Office by October

    The ultra-modern and multi-purpose office complex being constructed by the Minerals Commission as its Ashanti Regional office is nearing completion, with high expectations for its commissioning by October 2024.

    Project Consultant Mr. Osei Tutu provided this assurance during a site inspection by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, MP, who visited to assess the progress of the facility.

    On Monday, May 27, 2024, the Lands Minister toured the site to familiarize himself with the advancements made on the office complex, which will become the hub for the Minerals Commission’s regulatory and oversight activities in the Ashanti Region and the middle belt of Ghana upon completion.

    Speaking to the press after his tour, Samuel A. Jinapor emphasized the importance of a fully operational and well-staffed Minerals Commission office for executing their regulatory duties, not only in the Ashanti Region but also across the entire middle belt of the country, including the Western North and Central Regions.

    The Minister highlighted that the government is committed to fully decentralizing the Minerals Commission, and the construction of the state-of-the-art Ashanti Regional Minerals Commission office is a testament to the government’s dedication to developing the mining sector.

    “I have to commend the CEO of the Minerals Commission, the consultants, the contractors, and everyone who has worked so diligently to ensure that we put up this extraordinary office for the Ashanti Regional Minerals Commission. If we are going to come to grips with mining, particularly large-scale mining, which contributes significantly to the national economy, as well as small-scale mining, then the Minerals Commission must have the requisite structure, personnel, and operational capacity to regulate the mining sector. This government has taken the initiative to ensure that the regulation of mining activities is decentralized, and we are on course”, he said.

    “This is a major investment by the government of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. I have been told that it is going to be the tallest building in Kumasi. It will be a place where we can conduct rigorous investigations of the mining sector and the products of the mining sector in the country”, he added.

    “The contractors have given us the assurance that it will be handed over to the government by the end of September, and I’m going to hold them to it. I will be knocking on the doors of Manhyia to seek the concurrence of His Royal Majesty Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu, to commission this project in the first week of October,” he said.

    The Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Mr. Martin Kwaku Ayisi, revealed that the project was initially estimated to cost GH₵80 million. He also mentioned that the commission has plans to lease some of the offices in the edifice to generate revenue.

    Mr. Ayisi further elaborated on the maintenance plan crafted by the commission, assuring that the facility will bring significant benefits.

    Mr. Osei Tutu, the project consultant, expressed confidence that the project, which is currently 71% complete, will be ready by the end of September 2024.

    Breaking down the completion rate, Mr. Osei Tutu said, “Preliminaries are at 60%, the soft structure for the main building is 100%, the ground floor for the main building is at 63%, but the overall progress of work for the seven-story is at 63%. We have the laboratory and main block. The laboratory and main block are about 71% complete, so cumulatively, we are about 71%.”

    Since 2021, the Minerals Commission has initiated a significant infrastructural development campaign nationwide. This effort includes the construction of several buildings across ten mining regions.

    The goal is to decentralize the commission’s services, bringing them closer to stakeholders and aiding the government’s efforts to streamline operations in the mining sector.

  • COCOBOD slams Minerals Commission over MIGOP Mining Limited’s presence on cocoa farms

    COCOBOD slams Minerals Commission over MIGOP Mining Limited’s presence on cocoa farms

    Chief Executive Officer of COCOBOD, Joseph Boahen Aidoo, has chastised the Minerals Commission over the lack of due diligence after issuing an exploration licence to MIGOP Mining Limited, a foreign-owned gold mining firm.

    The company is accused of endangering the livelihoods of cocoa farmers in the Atwima Nwabiagya South Municipality, Ashanti Region.

    It has been revealed that approximately 400 acres of cocoa farms are under threat due to the exploration activities conducted by MIGOP Mining Limited.

    Mr. Aidoo noted that although the Commission had granted an exploration license to the mining company, it failed to follow up to ensure that no mining took place.

    “The Minerals Commission is also complicit in whatever that is going on. In this instance that we are discussing, they were issued with an exploration license and not a mining lease. It is only when you’ve gone through all the necessary processes and procedures, then you need the final stage to establish that you have a commercial precious mineral there that is only when you will be issued with a mining lease but in this instance, they only have exploration license from the minerals commission,” he stated.

    “The minerals commission has not followed up to see whether they are doing exploration or mining and by law, they are not supposed to use heavy machinery through any cocoa farm. So, whatever is going on there is unlawful and COCOBOD is going to assist the farmers to have the get compensation for whatever disruption might have occurred to their farms,” he added.

    Mr Aidoo asserts that the attempts by the mining company to explore and mine in the affected communities, resulting in the destruction of several cocoa farms, are unlawful and unacceptable.

    “It is unlawful to destroy any cocoa tree or even to remove any tree on the cocoa farm. Which means that you can’t even go there and mine. Even if loggers cannot go and take timber trees, then it means that as for mining, it cannot come to any cocoa farm at all.

    The potential commencement of full-scale operations by the firm could have detrimental effects on five cocoa-growing communities in the area.

    The CEO assured that COCOBOD is dedicated to supporting the affected farmers and will help secure fair compensation for any disruptions caused to their farms.

  • Revoke FGR Bogoso-Prestea’s mining license – Workers tell Minerals Commission

    Revoke FGR Bogoso-Prestea’s mining license – Workers tell Minerals Commission

    Mine workers at Future Global Resources Bogoso-Prestea Mines are urging the Minerals Commission to revoke the license of the company.

    The workers claim that the mine has not witnessed any investment since Future Global Resources took over in 2020.

    General Secretary of the Senior Staff Union of FGR Bogoso-Prestea Mines, Samuel Kumi Manu, expressed in an interview that the management of the company has failed significantly.

    “Since FGR took over, the mine was in debt of over $30 million but as we speak, the debt portfolio of the company has risen to over $100 million. And this debt includes indebtedness to workers. For the past two years, the company has not been able to pay SSNIT contributions to workers, the occupational working scheme from which workers are supposed to benefit,” he added.

    The mine workers staged a demonstration on Tuesday, January 30, protesting against what they perceived as mismanagement of the mine. They claimed that this mismanagement has adversely affected productivity and the payment systems of the workers.

    Samuel Kumi Manu and other workers asserted during the demonstration that the mine has not witnessed any investment since FGR took over in 2020.

    They called on the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, to demand proof of financial capability from FGR to assess whether the mine should be taken away from them.

    “We want the sector minister, Samuel Abu Jinapor, to take action because we know on record that the minister has, on two occasions, issued ultimatums to FGR to show proof of financial capability. However, on both occasions, FGR has failed to comply. This implies that FGR does not have the means to operate the mine. Therefore, we expect the minister to intervene and transfer it to a credible investor who can inject financial capacity into the operation, as what we lack now is finances.”

  • Bogoso Prestea: Future Global Resources currently not under care, maintenance – Minerals Commission

    Bogoso Prestea: Future Global Resources currently not under care, maintenance – Minerals Commission

    The Minerals Commission has clarified that it has not received any formal application from the operators of the Prestea-Bogoso Mine, currently managed by Future Global Resources (FGR) Bogoso Prestea Limited and Blue International Holdings Limited.

    The mine, facing operational challenges, has yet to submit a formal request for care and maintenance.

    Despite FGR making a verbal presentation to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources proposing care and maintenance, the Minerals Commission emphasizes that no formal application has been officially submitted.

    According to the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), any request to suspend production must follow a procedure outlined in section 51, including serving a notice to the Minister, which FGR has not done.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, neither the Ministry nor Commission has received a formal application or request from FGR to put the Mine under Care and Maintenance,” the statement read in part.

    Complicating matters, the Commission had issued a notice to FGR in August 2023, identifying breaches and prompting corrective actions. With the notice expiring in December 2023, the Commission is poised to advise the minister on subsequent steps.

    Despite challenges, the Commission reaffirms its commitment to effective management of mineral resources, focusing on safeguarding investments in the Prestea-Bogoso Mine to preserve jobs, stimulate the local economy, foster community development, and generate revenue for Ghana.

    These developments follow demonstrations by employees and host communities expressing concerns about FGR’s management of the mine.

    The host communities’ chiefs and people have petitioned the Sector Ministry, citing a decline in the mine’s performance over the past three years and seeking clarification on FGR’s planned financial investment and corporate social responsibility.

    The chiefs appeal for the ministry to explore new investors or take over operations for the benefit of the country and communities.

  • There has been no request for FGR to be placed under care and maintenance – Minerals Commission

    There has been no request for FGR to be placed under care and maintenance – Minerals Commission

    The Minerals Commission has declared that it has not received any formal request from FGR Bogoso Prestea Ltd, the operators of the Prestea-Bogoso Mine, regarding the possibility of placing the mine under care and maintenance.

    In a press statement issued, the commission clarified that the Prestea-Bogoso Mine is currently under the control of FGR Bogoso Prestea Ltd (FGR) and its principal shareholder, Blue International Holdings Limited, based in the United Kingdom.

    The Commission emphasized that neither they nor the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has received a formal application or request from FGR for placing the mine under care and maintenance. However, it mentioned that if a formal request is submitted, it will be considered under section 51 of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).

    “For the avoidance of doubt, neither the Ministry nor the Commission has received a formal application or request from FGR to put the Mine under Care and Maintenance.”

    “An application to suspend production is clearly set out in section 51 of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) which requires the holder of the Mining Lease to serve a notice to that effect on the Minister. As indicated earlier, no such request or application has been submitted to the Minister.”

    “In the event that such an application is received, it shall be considered in accordance with applicable Regulations and the current state of the mine and a decision taken in the best interest of the Country,” an excerpt of the statement said.

    The Commission guaranteed the public that it would uphold the effective management of the country’s mineral resources and safeguard mining investments.

    “The Commission wishes to assure the public of its unflinching commitment to ensure the effective and efficient management of the mineral resources of the country, the protection of mining investment in general and the Prestea Bogoso Mine in particular to protect jobs, the local Prestea economy, community development as well as revenue generation for the benefit of the good people of Ghana.”

  • We played no role in contract awarded to SML – Minerals Commission

    We played no role in contract awarded to SML – Minerals Commission

    The Minerals Commission has stated that it did not play any role in the award of the contract to Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) for revenue assurance services in the gold production sector.

    The CEO of the Minerals Commission, Martin Kwaku Ayisi, responded to a Right to Information (RTI) request, stating that the commission had no involvement in awarding the contract to SML.

    Additionally, the response mentioned that the Minerals Commission has no reports of losses resulting from deliberate or accidental miscalculations in revenue within the mining sector.

    The SML contract, awarded by the Ministry of Finance and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), has been suspended by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

    An international audit and accounting firm, KPMG, has been appointed to audit the contract, following revelations by investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni about false claims made by SML regarding an earlier contract for revenue assurance in the downstream petroleum sector.

    The SML contract entitled the company to over $100 million annually for a five-year period, with the possibility of renewal for another five years.

    Despite admissions by GRA officials in the investigative documentary that they do not use SML’s figures to calculate taxes and revenue, GRA claimed that SML’s operation had resulted in a significant increase in volumes.

    However, the Africa Centre for Energy Policy and IMANI Africa countered the GRA’s claim, stating that the available data on the Ministry of Finance’s website for statutory reporting under the Energy Sector Recovery Act (ESLA) and on the National Petroleum Authority’s (NPA) website did not support the GRA’s assertion of significant revenue increment.

    “In the year SML commenced operations (2019/2020), GRA’s data indicates a 5% growth in refined petroleum product consumption relative to the previous year (19.38 million litres). In the same period, the NPA reports a 7% growth (24.71 million litres) in product consumption. In the subsequent year (2020/2021), both GRA and NPA data align, indicating an 11% and 10% growth in product consumption, respectively,” the statement by the CSOs indicated.

    They added: “The actual growth between 2018/2019 and 2020/2021 was about 62.95 million from NPA data and 60.15 million from the GRA Data. In the 2021/2022 year, the total consumption of refined products in the country declined by 5% and 7% according to NPA and GRA respectively.”

    SML had also stated on its website that its operations had stopped “under-reporting, diversion and dilution of fuel products and general non-compliance in the petroleum industry sector.”

    When The Fourth Estate team pointed out that services preventing anomalies were performed by other companies contracted by the NPA, SML management admitted the claim was false and promptly deleted it from the company’s website on the same day. Despite this, in June 2023, the Ministry of Finance instructed the GRA to expand the scope of SML Ghana’s work.

    A Ministry of Finance letter said the “Honourable Minister [Ken Ofori-Atta] has determined that there is the need to monitor the production and shipment of oil and gold out of the country.

    “To this end, he will like to expand the Revenue Assurance work being performed by SML to include upstream oil drilling by the production companies and the gold mining companies,” the letter, dated June 22, 2023, said.

    The award of contracts to SML has faced scrutiny from members of parliament, civil society groups, and anti-corruption campaigners. Questions have been raised about the basis for awarding contracts to SML, particularly as the upstream and gold mining sectors already had existing systems in place to protect the government’s interests.

    The Minerals Commission, which was set up by an Act of Parliament as “the Government agency with the primary responsibility of developing and coordinating mineral sector policies and monitoring their implementation” says it was not involved in the contract with SML to monitor gold production in the country.

    The Minerals Commission said it was not involved in the award of the contract and does not have reports of revenue losses in the gold mining sector.

    “The Commission does undertake regular or special audits from time to time as per its mandate to deal with such issues and we do collaborate with other Government or public institutions to do that,” the CEO added in the RTI response.

    The response from the Minerals Commission follows a similar response from the Petroleum Commission, the regulator of the upstream petroleum sector in Ghana.

    The Petroleum Commission, in an earlier response to an RTI request, stated that it was unaware of the contract awarded to SML for monitoring oil production in the upstream petroleum sector. Similar to the Minerals Commission, the Petroleum Commission also indicated that it had no information or reports on losses in the sector, which was the purported reason for contracting SML.

    The Ministry of Finance, which declined to provide a copy of the contract, stated in response to the RTI request that it did not have reports on revenue losses from agencies in the sectors where SML was contracted to monitor.

    “We do not have direct information on purported reports from agencies in the petroleum and mining sectors about losses in the downstream, upstream and mining sectors,” the ministry said.

  • Those against lithium deal have not read the entire agreement – Minerals Commission

    Those against lithium deal have not read the entire agreement – Minerals Commission

    The Minerals Commission has reacted to criticism by some individuals over the lithium deal between the government of Ghana and Barari DV Ghana Limited.

    Key stakeholders, including the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) and former Chief Justice Sophia Akufo, have criticised the contract as colonial and Guggisberg-type, respectively.

    In a press statement on Monday, December 4, the Minerals Commission noted that such statements have been made because the “commentators have not read the agreement in its entirety.”

    The statement added that “as result, many of concerns are based on assumptions that are inaccurate and assertions that are not supported by facts or any data.”

    The Minerals Commission asserts that the lithium deal between the government of Ghana and Barari DV Ghana Limited is in the best interest of the nation.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, the mining lease was granted for 15 years to Barari, which is the subsidiary of Atlantic Lithium Limited, an Australian company listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) and also on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) of the London Stock Exchange. The lease covers an area of 42.63 Km2 in and around Ewoyaa in the Mfantseman Municipality of the Central Region.”

    Meanwhile, the Minerals Commission has noted that it will organise a press conference on Thursday, December 7, at the Ministry of Information to shed more light on the lithium deal between the government of Ghana and Barari DV Ghana Limited.

    A mining agreement was signed on October 20, 2023, between Ghana and Barari DV Ghana Limited.

    The mining lease, granted for 15 years to Barari, a subsidiary of Atlantic Lithium Limited, an Australian company listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) and the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) of the London Stock Exchange, covers an area of 42.63 km² in and around Ewoyaa in the Mfantseman Municipality of the Central Region.

    The $250-million project, located in Ewoyaa, Mfantseman Municipality in the Central Region, is set to commence production by 2025.

    The deal includes a 10% royalty and 13% free carried interest by the state, surpassing the existing 5% and 10%, respectively, for other mining agreements.

    Barari DV Ghana Limited is also required to contribute 1% of its revenue to a community development fund for the upliftment of the mining area. While some, including statesman and business executive Sir Sam Jonah, have praised the government for securing better fiscal terms, sceptics, especially the IEA, remain cautious about the agreement.

  • Application to mine in Kakum National Park was declined – Minerals Commission

    Application to mine in Kakum National Park was declined – Minerals Commission

    The Minerals Commission has addressed concerns regarding an application from High Street Ghana Limited for a mining license within Kakum National Park.

    In a clear statement, the Commission firmly rejected the application, stating that it was not given any consideration and was promptly removed from the online mining cadastre.

    This response came after concerns raised by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) regarding the potential operation of the mining firm within Kakum National Park in the Central Region.

    The Minerals Commission aimed to dispel any misconceptions, affirming that the application by High Street Ghana Limited was unequivocally rejected and should not be considered valid or under consideration.

    “The Commission wishes to inform the CSOs and the public that the application by Hight Street Mining Company Limited was rejected and therefore cannot be processed or considered whatsoever. Consequently, the Commission has deleted the application from the online mining cadastre.”

    “The Commission wishes to assure the public that no mineral right whether for prospecting or mining shall be considered or granted in the Kakum National Park.”

  • ‘Ewoyaa Lithium’ project doesn’t have Land Minister’s approval – Minerals Commission

    ‘Ewoyaa Lithium’ project doesn’t have Land Minister’s approval – Minerals Commission

    The Minerals Commission has clarified that the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources has not endorsed any contracts, transactions, deals, or stakes related to the Ewoyaa Lithium project.

    This statement addresses recent reports suggesting Piedmont Lithium’s acquisition of a stake in the Ghana-based Ewoyaa Lithium Project.

    The CEO of the Minerals Commission, Martin Kwaku Ayisi, explained that active negotiations with Atlantic Lithium Limited are ongoing regarding the development of Ewoyaa Lithium deposits in the Central Region’s Mfantseman Municipality.

    Ayisi emphasized that the Commission has yet to recommend any mining lease for the Ewoyaa lithium deposits, underscoring that Atlantic Lithium Limited retains a prospecting license via its subsidiary Barari Development Ghana Limited.

    Ayisi clarified that Cabinet endorsed a fresh policy framework for regulating the exploitation, management, and governance of lithium and other green minerals in Ghana on July 27, 2023.

    He stated that this new approach is guided by the principle of ensuring the benefits from green mineral exploitation primarily serve the citizens of Ghana.

    He further assured the public of the government’s commitment to securing optimal gains from lithium and green mineral exploitation.

    In a separate statement, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources previously refuted claims about granting mining licenses for lithium exploration and production in Ghana.

    The Ministry affirmed that while exploratory efforts for the mineral are ongoing, no lease or permit has been issued for exploration and production purposes.

    The Ministry emphasized its dedication to managing mineral exploitation for the nation’s benefit and interest.

  • Halt encroachers from hindering our operations – Maso Quarry to govt

    Halt encroachers from hindering our operations – Maso Quarry to govt

    Management of Maso Quarry Limited has called on a number of government institutions to address the ongoing illegal activities of encroachers on their lands and buffer zones.

    The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Minerals Commission, Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, and the Nsawam Adoagyiri Municipal Assembly are being entreated to address the matter.

    Per report, theft is being perpetrated by certain residents of Okobeyeyie, the community where Maso Quarry is located.

    Approximately 60 indigenous workers of Maso Quarry Limited express deep concern about the potential collapse of the company due to unlawful encroachments on their lands by residents of the Okobeyeyie community.

    Despite the EPA and Minerals Commission designating these areas as buffer zones after granting a permit to Maso Quarry Limited in 2007, when the entire area was a dense forest without any structures, encroachment continues.

    The quarry company obtained permits from the EPA and Minerals Commission to operate on 140-acre land, which included a buffer zone specifically aimed at preventing any adverse effects of their activities on the community, particularly regarding stone blasting.

    However, individuals who have forcibly and unlawfully encroached on the buffer zones and lands belonging to the company are falsely accusing Maso Quarry of negatively impacting their buildings, demanding the closure of the company.

    These encroachers have failed to produce any permits, instead, claiming that the lands were sold to them by certain traditional leaders in the community, including the Chief of Okobeyeyie, Nana Opare Odei, and one Nana Asaase, Micheal Akrofi of UTV reported.

    The constant threats and attacks on the company have instilled fear among its indigenous workers, who worry about losing their jobs if the company collapses. They call upon the EPA, the Minerals Commission, and the government to intervene and protect their livelihoods.

    Responding to the allegations, Kingsley Agyemang, the Safety Officer of Maso Quarry Limited, refutes such claims. He states that after obtaining the quarry permit, the company duly compensated all farmers whose farmlands were affected, providing a total sum of GHC 2,254.25 each. Until recently, there had been no encroachment on the buffer zones.

    Agyemang emphasizes that the company has renewed all permits since its operations began and fulfilled over 50 of its corporate social responsibilities within the first six months of this year alone. The company is committed to responding to proposals from outside the Nsawam Adoagyiri Municipality, prioritizing the development of the Okobeyeyie community and the entire municipality.

    Furthermore, Agyemang highlights that the company has met all tax obligations to the Assembly and Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), maintaining a clean record of compliance.

    He clarifies, “The company has been in existence since 2007 and has employed about 60 indigenous people directly. Before conducting any blasts, we announce it in the community a day prior. The blasting process is always supervised by officers from the Minerals Commission, who use their machines to detect sound and vibration, ensuring we adhere to their prescribed standards.”

    He adds, “They have encroached on our lands to engage in farming activities because some members of their community rent the land to them. We did not give them permission to occupy the lands.”

  • We have improved licensing system for small-scale miners – Minerals Commission CEO

    We have improved licensing system for small-scale miners – Minerals Commission CEO

    Claims of delays in providing licenses for small-scale mining have been refuted by the Mineral Commission’s chief executive.

    Martin Kwaku Ayisi stated that the “small-scale mining licensing system has been significantly improved” in an interview that aired on Joy News on Saturday.

    He emphasized that it was simple to apply for a license and that license applications may be submitted online and accepted at any time.

    He said as at the time the former Environment Minister Prof Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng filed a report on galamsey in 2021, the licensing applications were paper-based.

    According to him, in that era, miners had to go and locate their district offices, look for officers and do paperwork which takes about a week. However, it is no longer the case.

    Except for Ghana, he claims that the improved system that allows miners to apply for licenses on weekends is not in place in Africa.

    “Samson, I am not boasting but you can apply for a small-scale licensing in the very minute you are speaking. I don’t know whether Akuba is aware. You can apply for a small-scale licence Monday to Sunday – 24 hours…,” he clarified.

    His comments come after an Assistant Lecturer at the Mining Engineering Department of the University of Mines and Technology, (UMaT), attributed the rampant illegal mining activities to the overwhelming hurdles that are faced when securing lands.

    Akuba Bezaba Yalley said the procedures involved in securing lands are unnecessarily hectic and daunting, with some people being denied applications.

    This, she says discourages even people who want to do right by the laws.

    “I have gathered that in fact, the way and manner in which people actually want to do the small-scale mining are actually frustrating.

    “So at the end of the day, the system itself is kind of promoting illegal mining. Someone who wants to acquire a license has to go through a whole lot of frustration. A license is supposed to be issued in about four months, the person would have to wait for about three or four years.

    “Applications, even if they’re to be denied, they are to bring out some reason why those applications are to be denied or even delayed – they do not get feedback. So at the end of the day, it looks like even those who want to do things right are kind of discouraged,” she said.

  • Man accuses Former Nkwanta MP of selling mining concession to him

    Man accuses Former Nkwanta MP of selling mining concession to him

    A man, Agya Owusu, whose mining equipment were burnt has alleged that Joseph Albert Quarm, a former member of parliament for Nkwanta, sold to him an unlawful mining site concession.

    According to Agya Owusu, soldiers came to stop him from mining and burnt his mining equipment; saying that his concession was illegal because it was close to a river.

    Speaking to the media at the mining site in a viral video sighted by GhanaWeb, Agya Owusu said that he informed Albert Quarm of what transpired but the former MP has done nothing to help him up to date.

    He added that he sent the documents on the mining concession to Accra for authentication after which he will decide on the action to take against the former MP.

    “One of the soldiers told me that having a concession close to a river is illegal so they had to burn my equipment.

    “I called the person who sold me the land to inform him of what has transpired but up to date he has said nothing meaningful for me, he has not even said sorry.

    “The person who sold the concession to me is the former MP, Prof Quarm,” he said in Twi.

    Background

    A former Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Prof Kwabena Frimpong Boateng, named some former and current members of parliament as well as top government officials who are allegedly involved in illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) in Ghana.

    Portions of a report on illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) in Ghana by Prof Frimpong Boateng, indicated that these MPs and government officials were either directly involved in galamsey or were using their power to protect relatives who were involved in the menace.

    The 36-page report, which Prof Frimpong addressed to the Chief of Staff and the Ghana Police Service, according to myjoyonline.com, implicated the former MP for Manso Nkwanta, Joseph Albert Quarm.

    “He (the former NPP MP) used his position as a member of the Minerals Commission to acquire several dozens of large-scale concessions in his district, ostensibly for community mining purposes. He ended up selling these concessions to private individuals, including party members for GH¢200,000 per concession.

    Joseph Albert Quarm has, however, firmly refuted the claims made by Prof Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng.

    Speaking with Aduanaba Kofi Ampong on Ezra Morning show on Friday, monitored by GhanaWeb, Quarm called out the claims by Frimpong Boateng’s report as mere false accusations that seek to tarnish his image.

    According to him, the Minerals Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources legally established community mining in his constituency and he doesn’t know if that was what Frimpong Boateng’s report has captured as illegal operations by him.

    “I don’t even have one concession not even to talk of dozen concessions sold by me, as stated in his report. He doesn’t have any substantive evidence on his statement so I’m challenging him to come out with evidence,” Quarm said,

    “I do expect him to retract and apologize over his false reportage that seeks to denigrate my reputation, else he will have to meet in court to prove otherwise,” he added.

  • Elements in Ministry of Lands, Minerals Commission sabotaged members of illegal mining committee – Prof Boateng alleges

    Elements in Ministry of Lands, Minerals Commission sabotaged members of illegal mining committee – Prof Boateng alleges

    Former Minister of Environment, Science, and Technology, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, has revealed how the Ministry of Lands with support from the Lands Commission allegedly sabotaged community mining which was conceptualized by the Inter Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM) to check illegal mining activities.

    In a 37-page report dated March 19, 2021, the former minister said although the community mining project which was rolled out by President Akufo-Addo in 2017 received support from many, the Lands Ministry decided to treat it with intense hostility.

    According to him, this became so following the appointment of Kwaku Asamoah-Cheremeh.

    “Some elements in the Minerals Commission, including Mr S.K. Boafo, the Chairman of the Minerals Commission Board supported the position of the Ministry of Lands,” he said.

    The contention between the Committee and two other bodies, he said, was due to a clash over responsibility.

    Former Minister of Environment, Science, and Technology, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng

    “Apparently, they were angry that the IMCIM was at the forefront in matters concerning small scale mining, which they said were among the functions of the Minerals Commission.

    The effect of this antagonism was that several community mining sites that the IMCIM had planned and were ready to be commissioned were effectively sabotaged and blocked by the Minerals Commission and the Lands Minister (Peter Amewu – then Lands Minister),” he added.

    Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng said some sabotaged community mining sites were located in Asante Akim area in the Ashanti Region.

    He claimed that a day before the commissioning of the sites by the IMCIM, Mr S.K. Boafo called the MCE of Asante Akim Central to block the event lest lose her job.

    According to him, this matter was brought before the Chief of Staff who advised that they work together “but that advise was not heeded by the Lands Ministry and the Minerals Commission.”

    Currently, the Lands Ministry and the Minerals Commission are being headed by Samuel Abu Jinapor and Barbara Oteng Gyasi respectively.

    Meanwhile, Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng has accused the Information Minister, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, of masterminding his removal from office in 2020.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Minerals Commission spends GH6.5 million in an oil palm plantation in Birim Central Municipality

    Minerals Commission spends GH6.5 million in an oil palm plantation in Birim Central Municipality

    In order to offer residents of the area alternate means of subsistence, the Minerals Commission funded GH6,570,000 in the growth of oil palm plantations at Birim Central Municipality.

    Martin Ayisi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, said that the plantings were a component of the Commission’s attempts to stop illegal mining in the Municipality and were part of the Alternative Livelihood Project (ALP) that was being carried out by the Commission.

    He stated that approximately 3,000 people have been directly employed thus far, while another 6,000 have benefited indirectly, at a meeting in Accra yesterday that included Board Members of the Commission and beneficiaries of the project to discuss the prospects of the project in the Birim Central Municipality.

    Since 2020, he stated that 438,000 oil palm seedlings have been supplied to the farmers in the area, resulting in the cultiva­tion of 2,628 hectares of land.

    Mr. Ayisi said the Commission was undertaking similar projects in some other mining communities in the Eastern, Central, Western, Ashanti, and Upper East regions.

    The Commission, he noted, had signed a Memorandum of Un­derstanding (MOU) with Juabeng Mills in the Eastern Region to serve as an off-taker for the oil palm produced within the Birim Central Municipality.

    “This arrangement will ensure that farmers have a market for the oil palm produced while the Miner­als Commission intensifies efforts to partnerships for the establishment of a mill factory for the area,” the Chief Executive Officer noted.

    In the meantime, he said, the Commission would make available the needed resources and collabo­rate effectively with all stakeholders to ensure alternative livelihood proj­ects were tailored for the communi­ties to encourage participation.

    The Director of the Department of Agriculture, Birim Central Munici­pal Assembly, Isaac Mann, said, the ALP had been critical in dealing with illegal mining in the area by serving as an alternative source of livelihood to the beneficiaries.

    He noted that seven communi­ties within the Municipality partak­ing in the plantation programme would be grouped into farmer groups to strengthen their bargain­ing power.

    Additionally, he said, the As­sembly would seek certification for them to supply mills in the country for increased income.

    Nana Amoah Daadom, Akyem Asene Gyasehene, said, the project had led to the eradication of illegal mining in the area saying that “all our lands have been used for oil palm production.”

    He stated that Ghana stands to effectively end illegal mining if oil palm cultivation was expanded to all mining communities across the country.

    He asked the government to expedite work on plans and strat­egies to establish a mill factory to enable the processing of oil palm in the country.

    One of the beneficiaries, Ama Henewaa expressed gratitude to the Commission for implementing the initiative saying “the oil palm plantation has been a relief to us and given us the opportunity to earn some income.”

  • Investments in local mining amount to $10 billion

    Investments in local mining amount to $10 billion

    The list of goods and services that local businesses can provide to mining firms has been expanded by the Minerals Commission from 41 to 50.

    The fifth edition of the list, according to Martin Ayisi, the commission’s chief executive officer, was released at a time when investments and mineral revenue receipts totaled $10 billion, which he revealed to the Daily Graphic yesterday.

    while mining companies produced about four million ounces of gold at a value of about $7 billion last year and were on course to deliver same this year, investments to expand mines and start new ones reached about $4 billion.

    Each of the procurement items comes with quotas that must be reserved for local suppliers and service providers as a way to integrate the mining sector with the rest of the economy to boost local businesses.

    Mr Ayisi said since mining companies spent three times more on goods (inputs) and services than what they paid in taxes and royalties, the increase in the items on the list would boost the local economy through local content and participation in the mining industry.

    He explained that the 50 items on the list were items that the commission’s research had established were the most regularly procured by the mines over the years.

    While they had been mostly imported in the past, he said, local companies had built capacity and expertise to be able to deliver or supply them, hence the passage of the Minerals and Mining (Local Content and Local Participation) Regulations, 2020 (L.I. 2431), which came into force on December 22, 2020 to help support local companies to secure contracts in the mining industry.

    For instance, contract mining, service operation, as well as the supply of fuel to the mines, were all reserved for local companies, while others, such as underground mining services, had percentages that should be given to Ghanaian companies, he said.

    He said while Ghanaian companies grew capacity in the area, the percentage of work or contracts they should execute would also be increased.

    Mr Ayisi explained that the more mining companies invested in their operations, the more inputs and services they would procure, and that would stimulate local participation and growth, especially as the merchandise exports were bigger than the taxes and royalties the companies paid to the state.

    Background

    The implementation of the new procurement list of 50 items, effective January 1, this year, replaces the fourth edition the commission published early last year.

    Its purpose, among other things, is to promote job creation using local expertise, goods and services in the mining industry and their retention in the country.

    The law is also to achieve the minimum in-country spend for goods and services and create mining and mineral related industries that will sustain economic development.

    Pursuant to Regulation 7 of L.I. 2431, the commission is required to publish a local procurement list, which stipulates the goods and services with Ghanaian content which are to be procured in the country, while Regulation 7(3) of L.I. 2431 further enjoins the commission to review the procurement list annually.

    Receipts, investments in mines

    Throwing light on investments in the mining sector, Mr Ayisi cited four new projects, with investment of about $1.7 billion.

    “The new projects are the $850 million Ahafo North gold mine project by Newmont Ghana Gold Limited; the $500 million gold project currently under construction by Cardinal Namdini Mining Limited in the Talensi District in the Upper East Region; the $200 million gold mine to be constructed in the Upper West Region and the $125 million lithium project at Ewoyaa in the Central Region,” he said.

    He added that some mines were undertaking expansion and redevelopment.

    The CEO further explained that the Ahafo South mine of Newmont had been expanded to include the Subika underground, while Golden Star Wassa was spending about $1 billion to expand the Wassa underground mine.

    The mines being redeveloped were the AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, where $1 billion had been expended, and Mensin Gold Ghana Limited’s Bibiani Mine, which started production in the last quarter of last year, he said.

    “It is the expectation of the Minerals Commission that these investments will support the growth of the economy and boost local participation under the new procurement list,” Mr Ayisi said.

  • Minerals Commission officially begin its fifth edition of procurement list

    Minerals Commission officially begin its fifth edition of procurement list

    The Minerals Commission has started implementing the new procurement list’s fifth edition, which now includes 50 items for the provision of goods and services.

    This replaces the fourth edition of the procurement list, which the Commission released in the first half of 2022.

    According to Mr. Martin Kwaku Ayisi, Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, the Minerals and Mining (Local Content and Local Participation) Regulations, 2020(L.I. 2431) went into effect on December 22, 2020.

    Pursuant to Regulation 7 of L.I. 2431, the Commission is required to publish a local procurement list which stipulates the goods and services with Ghanaian content which are to be procured in the country. Regulation 7(3) of L.I. 2431 further states that the Commission shall review the procurement list annually.

    For instance, all mining companies are expected to ensure that at least sixty percent (60%) of financial services including revenue from the sale of minerals go to the local Banks. He indicated that the receipts from the sale of minerals is over US$ five (5) billion dollars a figure which is likely to go up significantly as new mines come on stream and the existing ones are expand their operations, the local banks such as CBG, National Investment Bank, Ghana Commercial Bank and Agricultural Development Bank are likely to benefit greatly.

    The same applies to insurance services which also require a minimum of 60% of all insurance and reinsurance placements be made with Insurance companies exclusively owned by Ghanaians.

    Mr. Ayisi, in a statement said the increase in the items on the list comes at the time when receipts from mineral revenues and investments hovers around US$ 10 Billion. For instance, there are four huge new projects with investment of about US$ 1.7 billion.

    The new projects are the US$ 850 million Ahafo North gold mine project by Newmont Ghana Gold Limited, US$ 500 million gold project currently under construction by Cardinal Namdini Mining limited in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region, the US$ 200 million gold mine to be constructed in the Upper West Region and the US$ 125 million lithium project at Ewoyaa in the Central Region.

    Additionally, Mr. Ayisi stated that some mines are undertaking expansion and redevelopment. The undergoing expansion include the Ahafo South mine of Newmont which now covers the Subika underground. Golden Star Resources is spending about a billion dollars to expand the Wassa underground mine.

    The mines being redevelop are the Anglogold Ashanti Obuasi mine where a billion dollars has been expended and the the Bibiani mine of Mensin Gold Ghana Limited which started production in the last quarter of 2022. The redevelopment of the Bibiani mine is over US$200 million dollars

    It is the expectation of the Minerals Commission that these investments will support the growth of the economy and boost local participation under the new procurement list.

  • Lands Minister commissions centre to track explosives vehicles and excavators

    The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel A. Jinapor, has commissioned a network centre at the Minerals Commission to monitor and track earth-moving and mining equipment, including excavators, and vehicles used in the transportation of explosives.

    The Centre, which was built by the Minerals Commission in partnership with the George Paa Grant University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), provides real-time information on the movement and activities of excavators and explosive vehicles.

    Commissioning the Centre on Thursday, 8th December, 2022, the Minister said the establishment of the Centre is part of measures adopted by the Government to deal with the illegal mining menace. He noted that excavators are one the main types of machinery used in illegal mining, with its attendant consequences on lands, forests and water bodies.

    In 2020, the Government promulgated the Minerals and Mining (Minerals Operation – Tracking of Earthmoving and Mining Equipment) Regulations, 2020 (L.I. 2404), to provide for the registration and tracking of earthmoving and mining equipment used in mineral operations.

    To give effect to this law, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, on 24th October 2022 directed all owners and operators of excavators to register them with the various Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies where these excavators are located.

    The Minerals Commission explained that excavators will be installed with trackers, and will be assigned to specific concessions. According to the Commission, the system has been designed to ensure that any excavator that moves outside its concession area will automatically go off. It said a pilot exercise has been done with excavators in Tarkwa and Obuasi, and excavators that go outside their concessions cannot work again unless unlocked by the Minerals Commission.

    In addition to excavators used for mining, vehicles used in the transportation of the explosives will also be installed with trackers for the Minerals Commission to monitor their movement, including their speed, and the activities of drivers.

    This follows a recommendation by the Committee on Health and Safety which was established by the Minister after the Appiatse incident, where a vehicle carrying explosives exploded and destroyed the community. The Committee, as part of its recommendations, recommended that vehicles carrying explosives be tracked to monitor their movements and activities.

    The Minister commended the Minerals Commission for their hard work in getting the Centre established. He, however, charged the Commission to expedite action on the registration and installation of tracking devices to ensure effective monitoring.

    Mr. Jinapor said Government is committed to the fight against illegal mining through law enforcement and reformation. He said while law enforcement is important, reformative measures have proven to be the best means of dealing with illegalities in the extractive sector.

    He mentioned some of the reformative measures adopted by Government as the revamping of the Community Mining Schemes and the introduction of the mercury-free gold processing equipment known as Gold Katcha. He called on all stakeholders to partner with Government to clamp down on illegal mining.

  • More mining listings on stock market underway – Minerals Commission CEO

    In order to further support local content and assure value retention in the mining industry, the Minerals Commission has guaranteed the increasing listing of mining companies on the local stock market.

    This occurs following the December 2021 expiration of the transition period for the Minerals and Mining – Local Content and Local Participation Regulations, 2020 (L.I. 2431).
    According to this rule, mining companies must list at least 20% of their equity on the Ghana Stock Exchange as part of the localization programs (GSE).

    This will happen in accordance with the rules five years after mining operations start.

    The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Minerals Commission, Martin Kwaku Ayisi, in a discussion on minerals in the country organised by the Ghana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GHEITI) said the regulator will rigorously implement the local content law to ensure more Ghanaian participation, accordingly retaining value in the country.

    “The local content law came into force in December 2020. There was a one-year transition period that ended in December 2021. Now Asante Gold has gone ahead of the curve by listing on the market. The law requires that at least a minimum 20 percent of their equity should be listed on the local stock exchange.

    “So, we are going to force all of them to list on the stock market,” the CEO said.

    The regulator mentioned that, currently, there are engagements regarding a mining licence for lithium – in which it keenly intends to ensure the localisation programme is adhered to according to the new law.

    The regulations say that the minister shall, on recommendation of the Commission and in consultation with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), determine the limits of local equity for capital expenditure when listing on the Accra bourse.

    The regulations further state that the holder of a mineral right whose planned capital expenditure exceeds the limits determined under sub-regulation (1) shall list at least twenty percent of that holder’s equity on the GSE within five years after commencement of mining operations.

    Currently, there are two mining stocks listed – AngloGold Ashanti Ltd. and Asante Gold Corporation – on the local stock market, whereas NewGold is listed as an Exchange Traded Fund (ETF). Also listed are the Depository Shares of AngloGold Ashanti. In total, this makes up GH¢19.11billion in market capitalisation; about 30 percent of the entire market.

    The last company from the sector to be listed on the market was Canadian exploration firm Asante Gold Corporation, which at the end of June this year listed 315 million shares on the main board of the Exchange worth GH¢2.79billion.

    In July 2022, Asante Gold Corporation (ASG) completed the first US$100million tranche of a US$140million financing package from strategic financial institutions in Ghana. The initial drawdown of US$100million will be used to cover local operating costs and the company’s near-term broader funding and strategic objectives.

    ASG is also in advanced discussions on additional senior secured debt facilities to provide for ongoing sustaining capital, it emerged.

  • Akonta Mining Limited has no permit to mine in Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve – Minerals Commission

    According to the Minerals Commission, Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve does not have a mining authorization for Akonta Mining Limited.

    The Tano Nimiri Reserve is not covered by the mining licenses awarded to Akonta Mining Limited, according to the Commission.

    For the avoidance of doubt, Akonta Mining Limited holds two mining leases in the Samreboi region, which were awarded following the issuance of reconnaissance permits on June 15, 2011, and prospecting permits on December 31, 2012, respectively.

    “These are: Mining lease over an area in Samreboi, dated 23rd July 2021, (the Lease in circulation); and Mining lease over an area in Abokoase dated 23rd July, 2021,” the Minerals Commission said in a press release dated October 3.

    The Commission, however, revealed that Akonta Mining Ltd indeed has a pending application dated August 25, 2022, for a Mining Lease over an area within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.

  • Galamsey: First batch of river guards begin training

    As part of measures to defend Ghana’s riverbodies from the operations of illegal miners, at least 100 people from various sections of the country have started a one-month training.

    The Deputy Chief Executive officer of the Minerals Commission officially handed 97 men and 3 women to the Eastern Naval Command on Friday, September 23 so they could begin training.

    The Flag Officer Commanding the Eastern Naval Command, Commodore Emmanuel Ayesu Kwafo, addressed the participants as well as described the training’s scope.

    He explained that by the end of the month-long training, the river guards will be equipped with skills in speedboat operation, swimming, among others.

    He charged the trainees to treat the drills with the seriousness it deserves so as to implement them effectively when they pass out.

    Commodore Emmanuel Ayesu Kwafo disclosed that the Ghana Navy is setting up a Rivery Command that will work with the riverguards to clampdown on galamsey activities on riverbodies.

    “The Ghana Navy itself is forming a rivery command so that after this training, we will support you to fight galamsey operations. For the next one month, we are going to give you some basic and essential skill that you’ll need out there”.

    “Swimming is one of the skills we will give you. We will show you what to do when the water is deep and how to deal with mining pits. We will teach how to detect the place and how to give reports and feedbacks”, he said.

    Speaking on behalf of the sector minister, the deputy CEO of the Minerals Commission in charge of operations,  Samuel Tika said the training forms part of government’s multi-faceted approach to the fight against illegal mining.

    “They have been specially selected to be trained to work on the areas of our country affected by galamsey activities. The Minerals Commission is not against mining but we want people to go through the due process. We have a lot of people around who are not following due process and are mining in ways that is polluting our riverbodies and posing health threats to the public.

    “The government thought it very wise to as part of the measures we are adopting against illegal mining to employ you so that you can help check these illegalities. You’ll be training on how to swim, be disciplined so that you will help Ghana to clean our riverbodies,” he said.

    When they passed out, the trainees will be deployed to the various riverbodies to provide permanent patrolling activities on those riverbodies.

    Government has earlier this year purchased some speedboats to aid in the fight against illegal mining.

    In all 300 persons are expected to undergo the training in three batches.

     

  • Key stakeholders review fight against illegal mining

    Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Mr Samuel Abu Jinapor, on Friday, September 16, 2022, presided over a meeting of the Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Illegal Mining, to review various strategies and measures to combat illegal small-scale mining.

    At the meeting, it became clear that much progress had been made in the fight against the illegal mining operation, despite the stubbornness of some of the individuals involved.

    The Committee praised those who came forward with information on illegal mining to help combat the threat, but claimed that the same people later posted old videos of the activities online to stoke public discontent.

    According to a statement issued by the Public Relations Unit of the Lands Ministry, after an extensive review of the operations, the stakeholders agreed that the river bodies and forest reserves should continue to be red zones.

    It was stated that no mining operations should be allowed near or within any river body in the nation and that exploration, prospecting, and/or reconnaissance should still be prohibited within forest reserves, save in exceptional cases.

    Operation Halt II would ramp up its support for the various measures being implemented to clamp down on illegal mining.

    The statement also said enforcement efforts would be pursued relentlessly without regard to any political, social, or economic standing of the people involved.

    “This will be done transparently and with the highest standards of integrity, candour, and utmost good faith.”

    It also said any equipment used in connection with illegal mining, otherwise known as ‘galamsey,’ or any product derived from illegal mining operations, would be seized and handed over to the police, in accordance with section 99 (8) of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), as amended.

    The statement said, that for any reason that particular equipment could not be moved from its location, it would be demobilized and/or decommissioned to prevent it from being used for illegal operations.

    “The Ghana Police Service will work closely with Operation Halt II to gather relevant information to aid in the prosecution of people involved in illegal mining.”

    It said the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Minerals Commission would intensify education on the dire consequences of illegal mining on the lives and livelihoods of current and future generations, as well as the environment.

    It noted that the Committee would meet regularly to review the measures being implemented

    and adopt additional ones where necessary.

    Therefore, the Ministry appealed to the public, in particular the media, chiefs, and residents of the host villages, to support the government and security forces in their efforts to combat the threat and preserve the environment for future generations.

    Meanwhile, on Thursday, September 15, 2022 a total of 164 suspected illegal foreign miners were arrested by a military anti- galamsey task force, Operation Halt II, at Anyinam and Mampong in the Eastern Region.

    Source:The Independent Ghana

  • Massive reshuffle hits Minerals Commission

    The Minerals Commission, as part of efforts to restructure its hierarchy, has undertaken a massive reshuffling of its staff in various parts of the country.

    The Commission has also created more regional, districts and satellite offices to decentralize the licensing regime and enhance monitoring of mining operations.

    According to the Commission, many of its officers have been transferred and reassigned to inject efficiency and ensure it can meet its objectives.

    The Commission has also hinted at hiring more mining engineers to beef up compliance with health and safety rules of mining activities

    With the country aiming to be a paperless system, the Commission says it will digitize all its data and plans to go online by the end of 2021 fully.

    The digitisation is expected to significantly cut delays in the licensing process and abolish the paper-based application for all applicants.

    Additionally, the staff are being trained in critical areas such as mineral economics, metal finance, ventilation, and geotechnical engineering to enhance their skills and knowledge.

    Source: goldstreetbusiness.com