A major shakeup is looming in Ghana’s mining sector after the government discovered widespread irregularities in the country’s active mining leases. During a high-level meeting with the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs on July 18, 2025, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Alhaji Yussif Sulemana, disclosed that only 316 out of 1,278 active mining licences could be verified as legitimate.
The revelation came in response to concerns raised by the Offinsohene, Nana Dwamena Akenten II, who questioned a mining lease purportedly granted for operations in his traditional area. The Deputy Minister, however, clarified that no mining leases have been issued under the current administration, implying that any documents presented recently were forgeries.
He further explained that a comprehensive audit had been ordered to assess the validity of all existing leases. The review exposed serious flaws in 962 of them, prompting swift moves to revoke every licence issued after December 7, 2024.
The findings of the audit are currently being compiled and are expected to be submitted to the sector Minister for further action. The Deputy Minister assured the chiefs that once the final report is reviewed, necessary measures will be taken to clean up the system and prevent further exploitation.
This development highlights ongoing efforts by the government to restore transparency and accountability in Ghana’s natural resource management.
Source: NewsandVibes.com
