Ghana's Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has inaugurated a nine-member committee to conduct a thorough review of all small-scale mining licenses across the country. The Small-Scale Mining Licence Review Committee aims to assess the legality, environmental compliance, and financial obligations associated with existing licenses.

The committee, chaired by the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Sulemana Yusif, will examine several critical aspects of the licensing regime, including whether licenses were acquired through due process, compliance with environmental protection standards, respect for water bodies, forest reserves, and lands, and full payment of fees related to licensing and permits.

The review is a vital step in restoring order to the small-scale mining sector and ensuring its sustainability. According to Minister Armah-Kofi Buah, the committee's work will help rebuild trust and maximize the sector's contribution to national development. The committee has been given a two-month lead time, but the Ministry is open to extending the period if needed.

The committee brings together experts from a diverse group of institutions, ensuring a well-rounded approach to the audit. These include the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Minerals Commission, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Water Resources Commission, Forestry Commission, Office of the Attorney General, Association of Small-Scale Miners, and Ghana Chamber of Mines.

The review process is expected to be thorough and transparent, with the committee appealing to all license holders to fully cooperate. A final report is expected by June 2025, marking a significant milestone in Ghana's ongoing efforts to regulate small-scale mining, curb environmental degradation, and tackle illegal mining activities.

The move is seen as a positive step towards ensuring the sustainability of the small-scale mining sector in Ghana. The sector has faced numerous challenges, including environmental degradation and illegal mining activities, which have had negative impacts on local communities and the environment.

The review is also expected to have implications for the country's economy, as the small-scale mining sector is a significant contributor to Ghana's GDP. By ensuring that the sector is operated in a sustainable and responsible manner, the government hopes to maximize its contribution to national development.

Overall, the review of small-scale mining licenses in Ghana is a crucial step towards promoting responsible mining practices, protecting the environment, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the sector.