Chamber of Mines CEO Urges Caution and Dialogue on Mining Royalty Reforms
The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Dr Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey, has urged the government to slow down ongoing reforms to mining royalties and intensify engagement with industry stakeholders to safeguard the sector’s long-term sustainability. Speaking at a media soiree on Tuesday, Dr Ashigbey addressed concerns over proposed changes to Ghana’s mining fiscal regime, including adjustments to royalty structures and taxation. He revealed that the Chamber has already initiated discussions with the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources regarding the proposed review of royalties. Dr Ashigbey clarified that the mining industry is not opposed to the introduction of a sliding royalty scale, but emphasized that the timing, thresholds, and broader fiscal context must be carefully considered. “We are not averse to the sliding scale. The challenge is at what point you are putting the sliding scale and the context in which you are putting us,” he explained. While referencing ongoing debates over lithium royalties, the Chamber CEO noted that the gold sector faces more immediate and far-reaching challenges. He cautioned that the government’s proposal to set royalties as high as 11 percent comes at a time when the industry is already contending with high effective tax rates and uncertainties in Ghana’s growth and stabilisation framework. Dr Ashigbey warned that pushing through the reforms too quickly could threaten the sector’s competitiveness and long-term viability. “What we believe should happen is that the government should wait and have more engagement. We should find a sweet spot that ensures the government gets its revenue, while the industry remains sustainable,” he said. He also cautioned that the swift legislative process, including a bill currently before Parliament, could undermine investor confidence if not handled with broader consultation. Dr Ashigbey stressed the need for a balanced outcome that would allow mining companies to grow and hire workers, while also supporting government revenue and job creation across the economy. He called on the government to temporarily slow the legislative process, urging broader dialogue with policymakers, industry players, and other stakeholders. “We need to put a brake on the process, bring all sides around the table, understand the government’s policy rationale and find the best way forward so we don’t jeopardise the sustainable development of the industry,” he concluded. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Withdrawal of Lithium Agreement Sparks Debate Over Mineral Royalties in Parliament
The recent withdrawal of a lithium mining agreement from Parliament has reignited debate over the country’s mineral royalty policies, following objections from the Majority caucus. The Majority argued that the 10 percent royalty rate negotiated by the Akufo-Addo administration contravened the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2010, which caps royalties for such concessions at 5 percent. The former Speaker of Parliament Prof. Mike Oquaye emphasized that the controversy should extend beyond the debate over whether the royalty rate is set at 10 or 5 percent. He argued that Ghana has long disadvantaged itself by accepting a maximum royalty cap of 5 percent for valuable resources like lithium, gold, diamonds, and bauxite. “It’s very painful to envisage that we have something that has got value. Then we say, when you take this commodity, which has got value, don’t give me more than 5%. But give me anything 5% downwards. That is what the cap means, and who does that? Honestly, we have not been fair to our nation at all,” Prof. Oquaye asserted, adding that Ghana should negotiate for significantly higher royalties, suggesting rates of at least 20 percent, to ensure fair returns from its mineral wealth. The lithium agreement, initially presented to Parliament by Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, concerns the mining of lithium and other minerals in Mankessim, Central Region. The agreement was later revised after Barari DV Ghana Limited, the mining firm involved, requested changes to the lease terms in light of a sharp downturn in global lithium prices, which affected the project’s commercial viability. Prof. Oquaye’s comments have sparked renewed calls for Ghana to re-examine its approach to negotiating mining royalties, with many stakeholders insisting that the nation’s interests must be better protected in future agreements. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Galamsey: Atiwa East DCE denies jail reports, appeals contempt ruling
The Atiwa East District Chief Executive (DCE), Ernest Ntim, has filed an appeal against a contempt ruling by the Koforidua High Court 2, following his conviction over alleged involvement in illegal mining activities on protected land in the Eastern Region. Speaking on Citi Eyewitness News on Monday, December 15, Mr Ntim confirmed that his legal team has formally applied for an appeal, describing the court’s decision as one he intends to challenge until all evidence is publicly examined. According to the DCE, the court did not impose a custodial sentence but fined him and three others, a cost he said was shared among the four individuals. He dismissed media reports suggesting he had been jailed, insisting such claims misrepresented the outcome of the case. Mr Ntim said the appeal would focus on evidence allegedly linking him directly to the illegal mining site, particularly a video he claims has not been publicly played or subjected to proper scrutiny. He maintained that he was unfairly implicated and accused unnamed individuals of orchestrating the case against him. The Atiwa East DCE further stated that he has, since his swearing-in, briefed senior government officials on what he described as coordinated attempts to undermine him, expressing confidence that President John Dramani Mahama would not take any administrative action without hearing his side of the story. “I was asked to pay a fine, and we immediately applied for an appeal. I will follow up on this case until the video they claim shows me on the land is played for everyone to see. I was only fined. The GTV station that published the jail story was not in court. I do not think the President will act on calls for my removal without first listening to my side,” he said. The Koforidua High Court 2 fined Ernest Ntim after finding him 15,000ghs in contempt of court for allegedly continuing illegal mining operations despite an injunction application pending before the court. The court held that Mr Ntim and members of his team were responsible for environmental destruction, including damage to farmlands and pollution of the Koben River, a key water source for several communities. Source: Citinewsroom
Galamsey Crackdown: Forestry Commission Nabs 11 Suspects in Pra Anum Forest Reserve
The Forestry Commission (FC) has arrested 11 suspected illegal miners, comprising eight Ghanaians and three Chinese nationals, in a joint anti-galamsey operation conducted at dawn on Sunday, December 14, 2025. The operation was carried out by a 28-member team drawn from three Rapid Response Teams, with support from officers of the Oda Forest District of the Forest Services Division. The Commission said the arrests were made in Compartment 70 of the Pra Anum Forest Reserve at Banka, within the Oda Forest District of the Eastern Region. The eight Ghanaian suspects were identified as Mohammed Mustapha, 25; Aminu Moro, 48; Owusu Emmanuel, 28; Raymond Opoku Agyemang, 32; Teye Joseph, 32; Oduro Emmanuel, 29; Aaron Oppong Gyebi, 36; and Isaac Apana, 32.Ghana sports merchandise The three Chinese nationals arrested are Jun Hunay, 42; Wen Yong Feng, 49; and Lu Zheng Zhan, 37. According to the Forestry Commission, all 11 suspects have been handed over to the Asante Akim Juaso District Police Command to assist with investigations and possible prosecution. The operation also led to the seizure of two pickup vehicles, a Toyota with registration number GW 4974-23 and a Great Wall vehicle with registration number GT 4189-25, as well as eight excavators and one automatic pump-action gun. The Commission said the seized vehicles have been sent to the Oda Forest District Office for safekeeping, while it reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying efforts to curb illegal mining activities in forest reserves across the country. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Former Bogoso–Prestea Gold Mine Workers Demand Urgent Intervention Over Unpaid Benefits
A wave of frustration and hardship is sweeping through the homes of former employees of the Bogoso–Prestea Gold Mine, as they call on the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, to step in and compel Heath Goldfields Limited (HGL) to fulfill its obligations and pay long-overdue statutory and contractual benefits. In a heartfelt petition dated December 10, 2025, the ex-workers detailed their ongoing struggle. Despite a clear directive from the Minister in May 2025, which gave HGL 120 days to clear all outstanding payments, the majority of separated employees are still waiting for their lawful entitlements. Only partial payments have been made, leaving hundreds in limbo. The petition paints a grim picture: months without income have pushed many ex-workers and their families into severe financial distress. The situation, they say, is “dire.” Some former employees have tragically passed away without ever receiving what was owed to them, leaving their dependents vulnerable and unsupported. Others, particularly the elderly and those medically unfit—now live in poverty and indignity, their dignity eroded by prolonged neglect. “Hundreds of affected workers have been without income for months, unable to provide food, education, and healthcare for their families,” the petition reveals, underscoring the human cost behind the unpaid benefits. The group criticizes HGL for repeatedly shifting payment timelines, making promises that remain unmet. HGL’s assurances that all arrears would be settled in December 2025 have yet to materialize, and the absence of clear, official communication has only heightened the anxiety and confusion among those affected. Beyond the immediate crisis of unpaid entitlements, the petitioners are also raising important questions about the process that allowed HGL to take over operations at the mine. They draw a parallel to the fate of the previous operator, Future Global Resources (FGR), and demand answers about the financial vetting and commitments that were supposedly evaluated by the government. “These signs of financial strain mirror the very problems that led to the removal of FGR,” the petitioners warn, expressing concern about the effectiveness of government oversight in protecting workers’ rights. Despite written assurances from HGL in late August and early October, key payments, including Provident Fund contributions and arrears, end-of-service benefits, severance packages, accrued leave, annual bonuses, and other statutory obligations, remain unpaid. The group also laments the lack of accessible communication channels, which has left them in the dark and compounded their distress. Many feel neglected, with no way to seek updates or clarity on when they might finally receive what is rightfully theirs. In a final plea, the former employees urge the Minister to enforce immediate payment of all outstanding entitlements, protect the benefits of those re-engaged, and establish strict timelines with penalties for any further default. Warning that their patience is wearing thin, they signal that public demonstrations may soon follow if urgent action is not taken. “Our families are suffering, our dignity is fading, and our lawful entitlements remain unpaid,” the petition reads—a powerful call for justice and relief for the hundreds of households who have long relied on the mining sector for their livelihoods. The ex-workers hope that with swift government intervention, their long ordeal will finally come to an end. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Afenyo-Markin Accuses NDC Government of Enabling Illegal Mining Through Gold Board Policy
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has leveled sharp accusations against the NDC government, alleging that its new policy allowing the Gold Board (Goldbod) to purchase gold from small-scale miners is effectively financing illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey. Speaking during a parliamentary debate on the 2026 Budget on Thursday, November 27, Afenyo-Markin minced no words in his critique. “This government has surrendered to the galamsey activities. This government has become its enabler,” he declared, arguing that the budget’s provisions contradict the administration’s stated commitment to eradicating illegal mining. Afenyo-Markin pointed to the budget announcement empowering the Gold Board to buy gold from small-scale miners as evidence of state endorsement for unregulated mining. “The NDC government, through the Gold Board, is rather financing it. This is giving it state endorsement,” he said. He further highlighted the dangers faced by those on the front lines of the fight against galamsey. Citing the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Squad (NAIMOS), Afenyo-Markin expressed concern for their safety, recalling the tragedy in which eight members lost their lives en route to launch an anti-galamsey programme. “Today, members of NAIMOS are getting hurt, dead, shot at in a fight their own government has abandoned,” he lamented. The Minority Leader also criticized the government for setting up a Gold Board that, in his view, lacks the mechanisms to trace the origin of gold or verify miners. He warned that such a system invites complicity and undermines enforcement efforts. “If this government cannot trace the gold, it must not buy the gold,” Afenyo-Markin asserted, concluding that the government has failed to show the seriousness or commitment necessary to defeat illegal mining. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana Calls for Reforms in Global Diamond Trade at Kimberley Process Meeting
Ghana has issued a powerful call for renewed commitment and progressive reforms in the global diamond trade, urging members of the Kimberley Process (KP) to modernise the definition of conflict diamonds and address the evolving challenges facing diamond-producing communities. At the Kimberley Process Ministerial Meeting in Dubai, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board (GOLDBOD), Sammy Gyamfi, delivered Ghana’s official statement. He acknowledged the KP as one of the world’s most successful multilateral initiatives but cautioned that its mandate risked becoming outdated if long-overdue reforms continued to stall. Gyamfi highlighted that while overt armed conflicts in diamond-producing regions have diminished in recent years, many communities still face “the violence of exploitation, dispossession, and exclusion.” He stressed that modern conflict extends beyond traditional warfare, taking new and more subtle forms that must be addressed by the KP. He pointed out that the proposals before the KP to redefine “conflict diamonds” underscore a shared commitment among member states to protect vulnerable groups and uphold the credibility of the global certification scheme. What is needed now, he said, is decisive and collective action. “Consensus is at the heart of the Kimberley Process,” Gyamfi reminded delegates. “But consensus must be a path to progress, not a recipe for paralysis.” He warned that continued failure to agree on reforms would erode the KP’s moral authority and relevance. Advocating for a pragmatic approach, the CEO urged participating countries to seek common ground, listen to one another, and embrace reforms—even incremental ones—that would bolster the diamond supply chain’s integrity while supporting legitimate trade. He cautioned against allowing “the quest for perfection to become the enemy of meaningful incremental reform,” and called on delegates to ensure that history would remember this meeting for choosing renewal and cooperation over stagnation and self-interest. Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with all member states so that the Kimberley Process will continue to evolve, protect communities, promote ethical trade, and address the modern challenges facing the diamond industry. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
National Anti-Galamsey Army Commander Calls for Tougher Measures Against Illegal Mining
The fight against illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, has reached a decisive moment in Ghana, with calls for stronger and more aggressive interventions echoing across the nation. At the forefront of this battle is Colonel Robert Narh, National Anti-Galamsey Army Commander and head of the Ghana Army Combat Training School, who has urged the government to authorize bolder actions to bring an end to the devastation caused by galamsey operations. During a recent meeting with small-scale miners in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality of the Central Region, Colonel Narh spoke candidly with journalist Samuel Nana Tawiah about the escalating crisis. He emphasized the military’s readiness to take decisive action, even suggesting that a “shoot and kill” approach could be considered if illegal miners violently resist efforts to halt their operations. However, he was quick to add that such drastic measures would only proceed with explicit government approval. “There are already task forces reclaiming destroyed lands, and soon, Ghanaians will regain their water bodies,” Colonel Narh stated. He called on citizens to support the national effort to end the destruction of Ghana’s environment, adding, “Restoring our environment is a shared responsibility, and we all have a role to play.” Providing a regional update, the Central Regional Director of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), Mr. Kwesi Dawood, reported significant progress in the fight against illegal mining. According to Mr. Dawood, more than 1,000 acres of degraded land have been reclaimed in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality alone. These efforts, he explained, are not just about environmental restoration, but also about returning the land to productive use. Mr. Dawood noted a marked decline in the number of people engaging in illegal mining since the reclamation initiative began. In a positive development, there have been no recent reports of water bodies being siphoned for galamsey activities—a testament to the effectiveness of current interventions. “NADMO remains committed to sustaining the momentum and eliminating the menace across the Central Region,” he assured. The human cost of galamsey is starkly evident in the Upper Denkyira East Municipality. According to the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Mr. George Anane, over 27 residents have lost their lives after falling into abandoned mining pits left behind by illegal miners. These tragic incidents highlight the urgent need for comprehensive land reclamation and stronger regulatory enforcement. Mr. Anane pledged to intensify the campaign against illegal mining, emphasizing that the ongoing reclamation exercise will help prevent further tragedies while restoring the land for agriculture, housing, and other beneficial purposes. He warned that anyone found mining in protected areas—including forests and water bodies, would face arrest and prosecution. “We are committed to achieving zero galamsey in this municipality by the end of the year,” he declared, signaling a new era of accountability. Colonel Narh’s call for tougher measures has resonated with many in government and civil society, reflecting a growing consensus that bold action is necessary to end illegal mining for good. The current campaign brings together the military, NADMO, local government authorities, and community members in a coordinated effort that combines enforcement, land reclamation, and public engagement. The results are already visible in cleaner water bodies, reclaimed lands, and safer communities. Yet, officials caution that the fight is far from over. Sustained vigilance, public support, and the political will to empower security agencies with the necessary legal backing are all seen as critical to ensuring long-term success. As Ghana presses forward in the battle against galamsey, the stakes could not be higher. Illegal mining has not only devastated the natural environment but also claimed lives and threatened the country’s future prosperity. The government now faces mounting pressure to take decisive action, balancing the need for security with respect for human rights and the rule of law. With continued commitment and collaboration, the vision of a Ghana free from galamsey is within reach. For the communities of Upper Denkyira East and beyond, the promise of restored lands, clean water, and renewed hope offers a powerful incentive to persevere through to the end. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Security Forces Arrest 300 in Major Anti-Galamsey Swoop in Obuasi
In a sweeping crackdown on illegal mining, security forces made a decisive move in the Obuasi Municipality on Wednesday, arresting approximately 300 individuals suspected of engaging in galamsey operations. The joint operation, carried out by police and military personnel, targeted several communities notorious for their involvement in illegal mining activities, including Dadwen, Obuasi-Nhyiaeso, and Obuasi-Anwona. The large-scale raid was prompted by a recent attack on officials from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and journalists, who had been carrying out anti-illegal mining duties in the area. Authorities acted swiftly, assembling a coordinated force to restore order and send a clear message about the government’s resolve to combat galamsey. Before the operation commenced, the Director-General in charge of Technical, COP Dr. Sayibu Pabi Gariba, addressed the assembled security team on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, outlining the mission’s objectives and emphasizing the importance of professionalism and restraint. After the successful operation, all 300 suspects were transported under heavy security to the Kumasi Police Depot, also known as the Police Training School in Patase. There, they will undergo screening and further investigation to determine their individual roles in the illegal mining activities. Authorities have indicated that those found culpable will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. The swoop has been hailed as a significant step in the ongoing battle against illegal mining in Ghana, with many hoping it will deter future attacks on officials and signal a renewed commitment to protecting the country’s natural resources. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Director of Operations of NAIMOS Attacked by Thugs Led by MP Ebenezer Kwaku Addo
On the morning of Saturday, November 1st, 2025, the Ahafo Region of Ghana became the epicenter of a dramatic confrontation between law enforcement and illegal mining interests. What began as a routine reconnaissance mission for the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) rapidly escalated into a high-stakes standoff, exposing the deep-rooted challenges facing Ghana’s fight against illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey.” The mission, led by NAIMOS Director of Operations Colonel Buah and backed by ten Ghanaian soldiers, was intended to identify a suitable site for the permanent deployment of a NAIMOS field task force. This move was part of the Secretariat’s strategic plan to intensify and sustain anti-illegal mining operations in the region. However, as the convoy traveled along the Goaso to Hwidiem highway, their attention was drawn to an excavator operating near Bronikrom. Upon closer inspection, the team discovered several individuals actively engaged in illegal mining along the roadside. The suspects were immediately apprehended, and, in an effort to halt further environmental destruction, the Director ordered them to refill the pits they had dug. It was then that the situation took an unexpected turn. The Director instructed one of the arrested men to contact the site owner. The first to arrive was a man claiming to represent Defence Intelligence from the Ahafo Region. He was quickly joined by another individual, Alex, who arrived in a Toyota RAV4 and arrogantly asserted ownership of the site. Shortly after, a third man, driving a Range Rover, appeared and was also detained. While securing the site, the NAIMOS task force set ablaze makeshift shelters used as offices by the illegal miners. A search of the suspects’ vehicles revealed a startling cache: a Smith and Wesson pistol, two magazines, 21 rounds of ammunition, 12 assorted mobile phones, a black side bag, 11,000 Ghana cedis in cash, a power bank, and a Lexus ignition key. The evidence suggested that the operation was not only illegal but potentially dangerous and well-financed. As arrangements were made to transfer the suspects to the Hwidiem Police Station, the situation took a political twist. The Member of Parliament for Asutifi North, Hon. Ebenezer Kwaku Addo, arrived at the scene with a group of men. He claimed to be acting on behalf of Hon. Collins Dauda, the MP for the area, and demanded the immediate release of the arrested kingpins, including a Burkinabe national. He insisted the handcuffs be removed to spare the suspects embarrassment in front of locals. The NAIMOS Director refused, standing firm that all actions were lawful and that the suspects would be processed according to police procedures. Tensions quickly escalated as the MP and his entourage forcibly took the handcuff keys from a soldier, released the suspects, and began to chase the NAIMOS team en route to the police station. When the convoy arrived at Hwidiem Police Station, they were met by a crowd of approximately 600 people from the surrounding communities, incited by the MP to demand the suspects’ release and the return of seized vehicles. The mob’s threats were grave—they warned that soldiers would be “disciplined” if their demands were not met and even threatened to burn down the police station. Violence soon erupted. The Director’s Toyota Hilux was vandalized, and the threat of arson loomed over the police station. Despite appeals for calm, the volatility of the crowd placed immense strain on both the NAIMOS officials and police officers. In response to the crisis, Chief Superintendent Prince Odom-Koduah, the Ahafo Regional Crime Officer, led a 15-member regional task force to reinforce local law enforcement. They were supported by other senior officers, including Divisional Commander Superintendent John Atanga and District Commander Superintendent Opoku Yamoah. Despite reinforcements, the situation remained volatile as darkness fell and a power outage further inflamed tensions. In a bid to avoid bloodshed, a joint decision was made by the police, military, and the Zongo Chief of Hwidiem, Alhaji Mohammed Bashiru Zarikyi, to release the keys to the seized vehicles and appease the crowd. The Zongo Chief personally offered his Toyota Sequoia 4×4 to evacuate Colonel Buah and his team to safety at the Newmont Site in Kenyase, escorted by police. During the escape, the Chief’s vehicle was attacked, its rear windscreen shattered, but fortunately, no injuries were sustained. Reflecting on the ordeal, Colonel Buah described the MPs’ interference as a serious obstruction of justice, warning that such actions undermined efforts to protect Ghana’s environment and enforce the law. He stressed that the fight against illegal mining must be supported by all citizens, especially those in positions of influence, rather than sabotaged by political interests. Thanks to the professionalism of the NAIMOS team and the Hwidiem/Ahafo Police, no lives were lost. NAIMOS remains undeterred, vowing to press on with its mission to protect Ghana’s waters and forests and restore order in the mining sector, no matter the obstacles encountered. Source: Apexnewsgh.com