The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has directed the revocation of the Akango, Salman and Nkroful mining leases held by Adamus Resources Limited, following confirmed violations of Ghana’s minerals and mining laws.
The decision is based on investigation reports submitted by the Minerals Commission, which found that the company engaged in unauthorised and illegal mining activities across the affected concessions.
These actions were determined to be in breach of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), as well as related regulatory frameworks.
According to the findings, Adamus Resources Limited unlawfully sub-contracted portions of its mining operations without securing the required ministerial approval under Section 14 of Act 703.
In addition, mining activities were carried out without approved operating plans or valid permits from the Chief Inspector of Mines, contrary to Regulation 8(1) of the Minerals and Mining (Health, Safety and Technical) Regulations, 2012 (LI 2182).
The investigations further revealed that the company failed to obtain necessary clearances from key regulatory bodies, including the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), as mandated under Section 18 of Act 703.
A particularly serious breach involved the unlawful engagement of foreign nationals—specifically Chinese workers—in illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as “galamsey.”
This contravenes provisions under Section 99(5)(a) and (b) of the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995), which restrict such participation.
Inspectors also observed that mining operations on the concessions were substandard and extended beyond approved operational zones, taking place far from designated mine infrastructure.
These activities are reported to have caused significant environmental damage, including land degradation and disruption of ecosystems, with potential risks to water bodies, public health, and the livelihoods of surrounding communities.
In light of the severity and deliberate nature of these violations, the Minister—acting on the advice and recommendation of the Minerals Commission under Section 100(2) of Act 703—has determined that the immediate revocation of the mineral rights is necessary and in the public interest.
The move underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing mining regulations and curbing illegal mining activities, particularly in cases where mineral rights are used to facilitate “galamsey” or where operators fail to comply with statutory obligations.
The revocation is without prejudice to any criminal charges that may be preferred against Adamus Resources Limited and their respective directors and management under the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995).
The Ministry assured that it will take steps to safeguard the lawful jobs and livelihoods of workers affected by this decision and will announce appropriate measures in due course.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources and will continue to take decisive action against all forms of illegal mining.
