The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has announced an unprecedented clampdown on large‑scale mining operations, signalling a decisive shift toward stricter regulatory enforcement in Ghana’s mining sector. The Ministry revealed that it is set to revoke the licences of fifty (50) large‑scale mining companies found in breach of statutory requirements, following a comprehensive review of industry practices.
“The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources wishes to inform relevant stakeholders that it is set to revoke the licenses of fifty (50) large-scale mining companies, over various regulatory breaches. This decision has been informed by a rigorous review of large-scale mining operations, which is currently ongoing by a special committee tasked for that purpose,” the Ministry’s Communications Directorate stated.
The planned revocations are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to sanitize the mining industry and strengthen compliance with regulatory, environmental, and safety standards. The decision comes after months of intensified scrutiny by a special review committee appointed by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah‑Kofi Buah, which was tasked with auditing operational practices across the large‑scale mining sub‑sector.
At the behest of the Minister, the committee will announce the final list of affected companies in due course. “At the behest of the Minister, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the committee shall announce the final list of the affected companies in due course,” the Directorate said.
While the full list of affected companies has not yet been released, officials emphasised that the move underscores a commitment to responsible mining practices. “This move, by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, forms part of the government’s commitment to sanitise the mining sector, in line with its vision of upholding safe and responsible mining,” the Directorate added.
“The review exercise is also designed to ensure that mining at all levels is done with recourse to appropriate protocols and due procedures,” the statement concluded.
The exercise aligns with ongoing efforts by the Government to enforce discipline across the mining value chain, a sector that contributes significantly to Ghana’s GDP, export earnings, and employment. It also follows recent regulatory actions targeting small‑scale mining operators; in October 2025, authorities revoked 278 small‑scale mining licences for breaches of mining laws and expired permits, reflecting the administration’s hardline stance on non-compliance.
This development could bring near-term uncertainty for mining markets in Ghana, particularly for companies with outstanding compliance concerns. However, reinforcing accountability is expected to promote a more transparent and sustainable investment climate.
The Ministry reiterated that the broader objective of the review is to ensure all mining activities in Ghana, whether large or small-scale, are conducted in strict observance of the law, with due regard for environmental stewardship, community welfare, and revenue integrity.
