The newly formed body, named the Small-Scale Mining Licence Review Committee, will assess the legality, environmental compliance, and financial obligations associated with existing licences.
Committee to focus on compliance and sustainability
The committee, chaired by the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Sulemana Yusif, has been mandated to examine several critical aspects of the licensing regime. These include:
Whether licences were acquired through due process
Compliance with environmental protection standards
Respect for water bodies, forest reserves and lands
Full payment of fees related to licensing and permits
Mr Armah-Kofi Buah underscored the significance of the committee’s work in restoring order to the small-scale mining sector and ensuring its sustainability.
“Your assignment is a vital step in cleansing the licensing system. By exposing irregularities, we can rebuild trust and maximise the sector’s contribution to national development,” the Minister remarked.
He further indicated that although the committee has been given a two-month lead time, the Ministry is open to extending the period should the need arise.
In his acceptance speech, Committee Chair Sulemana Yusif assured the public and stakeholders of a diligent and unbiased process.
“We understand the responsibility that comes with this role. Our work will be thorough and transparent to encourage trust and investor confidence,” he affirmed.
He also appealed to all licence holders to fully cooperate with the committee’s review process.
Cross-Institutional representation for holistic oversight
The committee brings together experts from a diverse group of institutions, ensuring a well-rounded approach to the audit. These include:
Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Water Resources Commission
Office of the Attorney General
Association of Small-Scale Miners
A final report is expected by June 2025, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s ongoing efforts to regulate small-scale mining, curb environmental degradation, and tackle illegal mining activities.
