The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has emphasized the need for a new licensing regime at the district level as part of broader reforms to enhance governance and sustainability in the mining sector.
On Monday, March 19, 2025, the minister announced the revocation of all small-scale mining licenses issued after December 7, 2024, citing irregularities in the issuance process.
In an interview on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, March 22, he stressed that decentralizing the licensing process is crucial for improving oversight and ensuring active involvement of local communities.
“This part of the reform also involves what we are going to do, and it is part of the recommendation I have,” he stated.
According to the minister, the proposal seeks to shift decision-making to the district level, where the effects of mining activities are most directly felt.
“The licensing regime must begin at the district level, and that’s why we are proposing the creation of district community licensing committees, made up of members from the District Assemblies (DISEC),” he explained.