As part of efforts to curb illegal mining, also known as galamsey, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has nullified all mining licenses granted after December 7, 2024.

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This action seeks to address the extensive destruction of water bodies and forest reserves caused by unlawful mining activities.

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During a press briefing on the ministry’s initiatives, Sector Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah revealed that seven out of the nine forest reserves impacted by illegal mining have been restored.

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“Based on the advice and recommendations of key committees, jointly with the minister supported by the EPA, the Minerals Commission, the Forestry Commission, and the Water Resources Commission, we are taking the following steps. We are going full steam ahead to revoke all licenses based on the findings. All small-scale licenses that were issued from December 7 are hereby revoked.

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“Whether you have EPA licenses or not, the finding is very clear—those licenses issued from December 7 were rushed, due processes were not followed, and the right procedures were ignored.

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“However, affected parties will have the opportunity to appeal to ensure the right processes are followed.”

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Galamsey has led to significant environmental degradation, including the destruction of forest reserves and water bodies.

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As a result, authorities have assured the public that stricter measures will be enforced to ensure that mining activities comply with the necessary regulations moving forward.

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