Lands Minister revokes Adamus mining leases over illegal mining

Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Nii Armah Kofi Buah, has revoked Adamus Resources Limited’s mining leases after investigations confirmed illegal mining and regulatory breaches.

The statement, signed by the Public Relations Unit of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, said the decision follows findings submitted by the Minerals Commission.

According to the report, “Adamus Resources Limited unlawfully sub-contracted mining operations without obtaining mandatory ministerial consent under section 14 of Act 703,” adding that the company operated outside legal approvals.

The Ministry also noted that “mining activities were undertaken without approved operating plans or valid permits issued by the Chief Inspector of Mines,” in violation of mining regulations.

It further stated that the company failed to secure environmental clearance, with the report indicating that “the requisite approvals from the Environmental Protection Authority were not obtained as required by law.”

A key concern raised in the investigation was the involvement of foreign nationals in unauthorised mining activities. The statement said, “Chinese nationals were unlawfully engaged in mining activities (‘galamsey’) on the affected concessions in breach of section 99 of the amended Act.”

The report also highlighted poor mining practices, noting that operations were carried out “outside designated mining zones and far from approved infrastructure,” resulting in extensive environmental damage.

The Ministry stressed that the activities had serious consequences for surrounding communities. It stated that “the illegal operations have caused significant land degradation and ecosystem destruction, posing risks to water bodies, public health, and livelihoods.”

Citing the severity of the violations, the Minister acted on recommendations from the Minerals Commission. The statement explained that, “upon advice under section 100(2) of Act 703, the Minister determined that revocation is in the public interest where mineral rights facilitate illegal mining or fundamental statutory breaches occur.”

The Ministry emphasized that the revocation forms part of broader efforts to clamp down on illegal mining and enforce compliance within Ghana’s extractive sector.

It added that regulatory agencies will continue monitoring mining concessions nationwide to ensure strict adherence to environmental and operational standards, warning that further breaches will attract similar sanctions under the law.