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The Minerals Commission has firmly refuted claims by Akonta Mining Limited that it holds a valid lease to operate in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, stating that the company has no legal basis to carry out any mining activities in the protected area.
In an official letter released on Tuesday, the Commission clarified that Akonta’s three mining leases remain unratified and the company has neither environmental permits nor operating licenses required by law to operate in the forest.
“Our records show that Akonta applied for a prospecting licence in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, which was subsequently withdrawn,” the statement read. “The company then applied for a mining lease over a portion of the reserve on August 25, 2022, but this lease was never signed by the previous Minister. Akonta currently holds no valid lease, forest entry permit, or any other authorization necessary for lawful mining in the forest reserve,” the Commission stressed.
This revelation comes in the wake of damning allegations from the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, who on Monday directed the immediate revocation of all mining licenses held by Akonta Mining.
Speaking at a press conference, the Minister accused the company of engaging in illegal mining operations, or galamsey, and selling unauthorised concessions in the Aboi Forest Reserve for as much as GH₵300,000. “This company has become a criminal syndicate, operating with impunity under the guise of legitimacy,” Mr. Buah declared.
Further investigations have been launched, with the Attorney-General now overseeing the legal process, while implicated forestry officials face interdiction. “This is a warning to all large-scale mining concession holders,” the Minister cautioned.
“We are aware of the tactics being used to devastate our forests and water bodies, and we will not rest until every unlawful actor is held accountable.” The developments add pressure on authorities to enforce environmental regulations more rigorously as public outcry intensifies over the destruction caused by illegal mining.
