A bold step in the fight against illegal mining sparks national debate
Accra, Ghana — In a decisive move that has stirred national conversation and rekindled public discourse on environmental justice and regulatory enforcement, the Government of Ghana has revoked the mining license of Akonta Mining Ltd, a company owned by prominent businessman and New Patriotic Party (NPP) regional chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, through the Minerals Commission, issued a formal notice revoking the company’s license due to multiple breaches of mining regulations and illegal operations in protected forest reserves, particularly the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in the Western North Region.
Background: A Trail of Controversy
Akonta Mining has been under scrutiny since 2022, when it was accused of engaging in galamsey (illegal mining) activities within protected forest areas — a practice banned under Ghanaian law. Despite government directives and public outcry, satellite imagery, environmental reports, and field inspections revealed that parts of Akonta Mining’s operations had continued without appropriate permits.
The company was further flagged for operating without a valid Forest Entry Permit, raising significant concerns about environmental degradation, water pollution, and disregard for regulatory frameworks.
Official Statement from the Government
At a press briefing held on Monday, Samuel A. Jinapor, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, confirmed the revocation, stating:
“This decision sends a clear message that no individual, company, or political affiliation is above the law. The government remains committed to protecting our environment, our forests, and our future.”
He emphasized that the revocation follows months of investigations, stakeholder consultations, and legal review.
“The sanctity of Ghana’s forests cannot be compromised. The law will be applied without fear or favor,” the Minister added.
Wontumi’s Response and Legal Threats
In response to the revocation, Chairman Wontumi issued a strongly worded statement through his legal team, disputing the allegations and accusing the government of political victimization. He has vowed to challenge the decision in court, insisting that Akonta Mining has been unfairly targeted despite operating with prior licenses and following due process.
“This is a witch-hunt cloaked as environmental concern,” his lawyer, Kwame Afriyie, said. “We will seek redress in the appropriate legal forum.”
Mixed Reactions from Stakeholders
Environmental Groups Welcome the Move
The decision has been lauded by environmental advocacy groups, including OccupyGhana, Friends of the Nation, and the CSOs Coalition Against Galamsey.
Kofi Boakye Yiadom, a spokesperson for Eco-Conscious Ghana, remarked:
“This is a major victory for the environment. We have seen too many rivers turn brown and forests vanish overnight. This revocation is long overdue.”
Traditional Leaders Applaud Action
Chiefs and elders from the Western North Region also expressed relief, noting that local communities have long suffered from the devastating impacts of illegal mining — from polluted water bodies to loss of farmland.
“Our cocoa farms are being destroyed. Our rivers are dead. We commend the government for finally acting,” said Nana Kwadwo Adusei, Chief of Essam.
Industry Watchers Raise Concerns
However, some stakeholders in the mining industry have warned that the move could dampen investor confidence if not managed with transparency and fairness.
Dr. Joseph Ofori-Atta, a mining policy analyst, cautioned:
“While enforcement is critical, government must be cautious not to politicize regulatory actions. Due process must be evident to avoid perceptions of selective justice.”
Political Ramifications: Is the NPP Divided?
The revocation of a license linked to a key figure within the ruling party has triggered speculation about tensions within the NPP. Some party insiders, speaking anonymously, expressed discomfort with the public nature of the revocation, calling for internal reconciliation.
Political commentator Nana Aba Duah noted:
“This could either show the NPP’s commitment to rule of law or expose cracks within the party’s power structure. Either way, it is politically sensitive.”
Next Steps: Prosecution and Reclamation
The Ministry has confirmed that Akonta Mining will be subject to further legal action, including potential fines and restoration requirements. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is also expected to begin environmental assessment and reclamation efforts on affected sites.
“We will not just revoke licenses; we will hold violators accountable for the damage done,” said Deputy Minister Benito Owusu-Bio.
Public Reaction and Social Media Buzz
The story has dominated social media and news cycles, with many citizens calling for similar actions against other alleged illegal miners.
- @KwameJusticeGH: “Let’s not stop here. Many illegal mining companies are operating under political cover. Sweep them all.”
- @EcoMamaGhana: “We stand with our forests. Thank you, Ministry of Lands. Now let’s see real prosecution.”
- @NanaKwame_233: “Justice must be blind — whether it’s Wontumi or not.”
Conclusion: A Defining Moment in Ghana’s Fight Against Galamsey
The revocation of Akonta Mining’s license may prove to be a turning point in Ghana’s war on illegal mining. As communities, activists, and policymakers continue to demand environmental accountability, the pressure is now on the government to remain consistent, impartial, and bold in enforcement.
Whether this decision leads to real systemic change — or becomes a one-off political maneuver — remains to be seen. For now, it sends a powerful message: the law must stand, even when the politically powerful fall within its reach.
📌 Stay with us for more updates, legal proceedings, environmental assessments, and political fallout in the coming weeks.