Lands Minister Cracks Down on Galamsey: Akonta Mining Scandal Exposed
Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has announced the government’s latest efforts to combat illegal mining (galamsey) in the country. Akonta Mining Company Ltd., a legally registered mining company, has been implicated in a massive scandal involving the sale of access to protected forest reserves to illegal miners.
According to investigations, Akonta Mining has been selling concessions in the Aboi Forest Reserve for GHC 300,000 each, with the company and its collaborators pocketing weekly royalties of 250 grams of gold. The operation involves a network of individuals, including forestry officers and security personnel, who receive bribes in exchange for protection and tip-offs.
On April 17, 2025, an intelligence-led operation by the Ghana Police Service and the Forestry Commission resulted in the raid of six illegal mining sites linked to Akonta Mining. Fifty-one suspects were arrested, and equipment, including excavators and firearms, were seized.
Minister Buah has authorized the revocation of Akonta Mining’s lease and directed the interdiction of forestry officials connected to the scandal. The Attorney-General has been briefed, and further investigations and prosecution are underway.
The Minister warned large-scale mining concession holders hiding behind legal leases to fund destruction of forests and river bodies that the government will take action. He also appealed to youth engaged in illegal mining to consider better alternatives, while vowing to act without mercy against those who persist in defiance.
The government remains committed to eradicating galamsey and restoring Ghana’s natural resources. The Minister urged the public to report illegal mining activities and assured that the government will act on the information.
