Ghana Approves New Mining Bill to Tighten Regulation and Boost Local Participation

The Government of Ghana has approved amendments to the Minerals and Mining Act, paving the way for a new legal framework aimed at strengthening oversight of the country’s mining sector and tackling illegal mining.

Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, said the revised bill will now be submitted to Parliament for approval. He explained that the existing law, which has been in force since 2006, requires an update to address current challenges and improve the management of Ghana’s mineral resources.

According to the minister, the proposed legislation seeks to increase local participation in the mining industry, promote value addition to minerals, and strengthen links between mining and the manufacturing sector. It also forms part of the government’s broader efforts to combat illegal mining and protect the environment.

Among the key proposals is the creation of district mining committees to give host communities a greater voice in the licensing process. The bill also introduces a single exploration licence with a maximum validity of five years, allowing the government to withdraw licences from companies that fail to undertake exploration.

Mining leases will remain capped at 20 years, while companies will be required to negotiate community development agreements directly with affected communities.