Lands Minister orders Minerals Commission to revoke license of Akonta Mining

The Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has ordered the Minerals Commission to revoke Akonta Mining's license.

Akonta Mining was found operating illegally in the Samreboi enclave of the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. They were selling access to forest lands for GHS 300,000 per concession and collecting illegal gold royalties.

Investigations revealed collusion with forestry officers and security personnel. This facilitated the destruction of forest land and water bodies, including the River Tano.

The Minister announced this decision at a press conference on April 21, 2025. He stated that the Attorney General has been informed and will take action.

"The Attorney-General has taken over investigations for further action," he said. "Akonta Mining does not have a lease to mine in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve."

He emphasized that their activities are illegal and criminal. The Mahama government is committed to holding them accountable.

Press Briefing by Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah

Accra, April 21, 2025

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen of the press.

This government is dedicated to eradicating illegal mining. We consider it an environmental sin against humanity and God. Today, I provide key updates on our efforts.

Last month, we promised to trace financiers of illegal mining equipment. We have made significant progress in this fight.

One major case involves Akonta Mining Company Ltd., which holds a lease outside the forest reserve but lacks permission to enter it. Investigations show they have abused their lease rights.

In August 2022, arrests were made related to Akonta Mining's encroachment on protected reserves. However, no further action was taken after transferring the case to Accra.

Akonta Mining has sold access to the Aboi Forest Reserve for GHC 300,000 per concession. Illegal miners operate under their protection while destroying forests and rivers without consequence.

Our undercover team discovered a network facilitating these operations. Mr. Ayisi represents Akonta Mining as a liaison for negotiations with illegal miners.

Concessions are subleased to individuals like “Mr. Henry” and “Shark.” They oversee destruction in exchange for weekly gold royalties paid to Akonta Mining.

Collusion exists between some forestry officers and security personnel involved in this scheme. Portions of fees go to Akonta Mining while others benefit officials who provide protection from raids.

Illegal miners continue their activities unchecked due to this arrangement with Akonta Mining Company Ltd.

Residents report that Akonta uses force against local farmers' lands and produce as well.

On April 17, 2025 (Good Friday), an intelligence-led operation targeted six illegal mining sites linked to Akonta Mining.

The raid lasted twelve hours in Compartment 49 and resulted in:

- 51 arrests (8 Chinese nationals; 39 Ghanaian men; 4 Ghanaian women)
- Seizure of about:
- 30 excavators
- 2 pump-action guns
- Confiscation of vehicles:
- 2 Toyota Hilux pickups
- 1 Toyota RAV4
- 4 motorbikes

All suspects are now in custody pending prosecution in Accra.

Given overwhelming evidence, I authorized immediate revocation of Akonta Mining’s lease. Forestry officials connected to these activities will be interdicted pending investigations and prosecution.

Security agencies will investigate any officers involved with Akonta Mining within this forest reserve as well.

The Attorney-General is now overseeing further investigations into this matter.

Akonta does not have legal permission for mining activities in Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve; their actions are criminally illegal.

We will pursue justice against those responsible for these crimes relentlessly.

This serves as a warning: large-scale mining concession holders cannot hide behind legal leases while destroying our forests.

To youth engaged in illegal mining: There are better alternatives available.

To those who persist: The state will act without mercy!

I urge media members and citizens: Your vigilance is essential! Report any illegal mining activities you observe; we will respond decisively!

Let me be clear: We will not stop until galamsey is eradicated completely!

We aim for clean waters and green forests once more!

We seek justice against every financier enabling this destruction!

Thank you! I am ready for your questions now.


Signed,

Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah

Minister for Lands and Natural Resources