Mines & Energy

The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition has announced that the committee investigating the saga of missing containers belonging to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) ,has successfully traced 2,637 containers, marking a major breakthrough in the ongoing probe.

This updated figure—more than double the number initially declared missing—has reignited public debate.

In March 2025, the Ministry reported that about 1,300 ECG containers were unaccounted for, with only 40 recovered at the time.

John Jinapour,Energy Minister

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, Richmond Rockson, Head of Communications at the Ministry, shed light on the conflicting figures and steps taken to verify the actual count.

He explained that during the transition, the team initially flagged 3,000 ECG containers as uncleared at the port. However, upon taking office, the new Energy Minister was informed that approximately 2,500 containers were still pending clearance.

“The minister was receiving conflicting figures, so he ordered an investigation to determine the actual number of missing containers,” Rockson stated.

“The investigation revealed that, in total, 2,637 containers were involved. Out of this, 2,583 are now confirmed to be in the possession of port authorities.”

Rockson emphasized that the probe was crucial in reconciling discrepancies and providing a more accurate account of ECG’s inventory.

He also suggested that further discoveries may follow.Mr Rockson added that if the investigation is allowed to continue, possibly more containers may be found.By:William Narh

The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, has strongly refuted claims that he is merely lamenting Ghana’s current energy and fuel supply challenges, stressing that he is focused on implementing concrete solutions to stabilise the sector.

Speaking to Accra-based Citi FM on Monday, May 19, 2025, Mr Jinapor responded to criticisms, including one from Walewale MP Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama, who accused him of using “fear tactics” rather than providing leadership during his appearance on The Big Issue on May 17.

Mr Jinapor, however, insisted that his presentation before Parliament’s Energy Committee was not a show of frustration but a deliberate effort to outline facts and present actionable interventions. “I understand grumbling very well, and I don’t think that when you appear before a committee and you present facts, they term that as grumbling—unless, as a minister, I needed to hide that fact,” he said.

John Jinapor

He highlighted several key actions his ministry has taken, including averting a potential shutdown by Karpowership, boosting generation capacity, and launching reforms to transition from liquid fuel dependency to more sustainable domestic gas usage. “The facts are that Karpowership threatened to shut down, and we resolved the matter. That is not grumbling—that is solving the problem. It is sitting around the table to find the solution.”

“When we took over, load shedding was around 70 to 80 megawatts. We’ve brought in new plants. I gave Parliament all the statistics, then presented the challenges and the steps we are taking to address them,” he added.

As part of the broader sector reforms, Mr Jinapor announced the formation of a Gas Processing Committee tasked with advancing Ghana’s capacity to process its own gas and reduce reliance on expensive liquid fuels. “We have inaugurated the gas processing committee to figure out how to build the gas processing plants so that we don’t depend on liquid fuel. That is not grumbling—we are solving the problem,” he reiterated.

The Minister also referenced ongoing efforts to involve the private sector in the energy space, particularly regarding ECG’s operations.
“ECG said they want private sector participation. We have inaugurated a committee, completed stakeholder consultations, and we’re now moving to implementation. Again, that is not grumbling; that is confronting the issues head-on.”

Responding to concerns about fuel stock levels, Mr Jinapor said he had provided Parliament with updated data and confirmed that new consignments of fuel were already being delivered.
“Parliament wanted the statistics of our fuel stocks, and I gave them everything. I also informed them that we’ve ordered fuel and are receiving new stock to replenish supplies.”

“I never said we have a crisis. I didn’t say we will have a crisis. We are not in crisis—we’re doing fairly well. Yes, we have challenges, but that is why we were elected—to solve them. And if I propose a solution, it means I am tackling a challenge, not lamenting,” he concluded.

Mr Jinapor’s remarks come amid growing public concern about power fluctuations and fuel shortages across parts of the country. His firm defence signals a government stance on transparency and resilience, even in the face of mounting pressure to deliver results in Ghana’s struggling energy sector.

By: Charles Ampong

The head pastor of the Caravan of Prayer Outreach Ministry at Gyinyase in Ashanti, Apostle Johnson Ackah Braimah, has advised the government to change her style if it wants to succeed in the fight against galamsey..

According to him,,the fight against galamsey, has become complex for both the government and security personnel and need technical way to solve it.

Apostle Johnson Ackah Braimah

Apostle Braimah in an interview proposed that, the ceased excavators must be evaluated so that the owners,are given at least 30 percent cost whiles the government ,also takes the remaining 70 percent cost of the machines.

On the government part, he explained that ,these excavators could be given to district or municipal assemblies for hiring in order to generate income for the government.
According to Apostle Braimah, this measure would put fear in those using excavators for illegal mining to stop for good..

He said, though this will not totally uproot the galamsey menace but it could bring it the to the bearest minimum..

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) began preserving gold reserves in 1961 during the administration of President Kwame Nkrumah. However, this practice was discontinued in 1962 due to a decline in gold prices and a strategic shift towards holding foreign currency and securities as reserve assets.

President Jerry John Rawlings (1993–2001)

President Rawlings’ administration focused on liberalizing the mining sector to attract foreign investment. This led to the enactment of the Minerals and Mining Law of 1986, which aimed to create a more favorable environment for mining activities, including gold extraction. While this law was passed before his presidency, its implementation during his tenure significantly influenced the growth of the gold sector.

President John Agyekum Kufuor (2001–2009)

During President Kufuor’s administration, Ghana’s gold sector saw substantial growth. In 2008, Ghana’s gold output rose by 4% to 2.6 million ounces, and higher prices pushed overall mining revenues to $2.3 billion, up 28% from 2007 .

To further develop the sector, Kufuor’s government undertook initiatives such as:
1. Sending over 800 small-scale miners to China: Between 2007 and 2008, the administration facilitated a trip for more than 800 small-scale miners to China to study mining operations. This initiative aimed to enhance local mining practices and foster international partnerships.

1. Enacting the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703): This law consolidated previous mining laws and introduced provisions to regulate small-scale mining, including sections 81 to 99, which specifically addressed small-scale mining activities.

2. Promoting local ownership: President Kufuor encouraged the development of local entrepreneurs in the mining sector, urging the Minerals Commission to implement policies that would enable Ghanaians to own and operate large-scale mining ventures. These efforts contributed to Ghana’s position as Africa’s second-largest gold producer by 2008.

President John Atta Mills (2009–2012)

1. Mills administration reviewed mining agreements, particularly those seen as overly favorable to multinational companies.

2. Strengthened Ghana’s participation in Extractive Industries Initiative (EITI) to increase transparency in gold revenues and contracts.

3. Promoted policies aimed at increasing Ghanaian participation in the gold mining value chain.

4. While not a new “programme” per se, Mills was instrumental in reviewing Ghana’s gold mining fiscal regime to ensure more equitable benefit for the country.

President John Mahama (2012–2017)

1. The first term of Mahama’s government focus on addressing Illegal Mining, as well as Value Addition.

2. Inter-Ministerial Task Force(IMTF) on Illegal Mining was established in 2013.
   The task force targeted the illegal small-scale mining (galamsey), especially its environmental impact.

3. Encouraged the establishment of gold refineries (e.g., plans to support the Precious Minerals Marketing Company – PMMC).

4. With respect to Gold Royalties Management, Mahama’s government continued the EITI policy and considered reforms in how royalties were distributed and used.

However, Mahama’s government faced key challenge such as rising crisis of galamsey.

Galamsey reached crisis levels, and Mahama’s administration faced pressure to curb illegal mining while balancing livelihoods.

Ghana Gold Reserves data reached an all-time high of 2,000.000 Metric Ton in 2014 and a record low of 990.000 Metric Ton in 2016.

President Nana Akufo-Addo (2017–2026)

1. “Gold for Oil” Policy (2022-March 2025) was implemented by Akufo-Addo’s government to ensure the stabilization of fuel prices on the domestic market.

The “Gold for Oil” Policy was aimed at exchanging gold for refined petroleum products to reduce pressure on foreign reserves and stabilize the Cedi. However, despite the “Gold for Oil” Policy, the cedi keeps on depreciating against the US Dollar and the other trading currencies.

1. Establishment of a Gold Refinery.
   Akufo-Addo’s government collaborated with Rosy Royal Investments to build a national gold refinery in partnership with PMMC.

2. Formalized small-scale mining under regulated frameworks to reduce illegal mining and improve community benefit.

3. Set up the Agyapa Royalties Deal (2020).
   Attempted to monetize gold royalties by creating Agyapa Royalties Ltd, a special-purpose vehicle listed in London. The deal faced criticism over transparency and was suspended.

4. Bank of Ghana’s Gold Purchase Programme(2021)
   Initiated to build gold reserves by buying domestically mined gold with cedis to strengthen the economy.

In June 2021, the Bank of Ghana (BoG) reintroduced gold as a component of its reserves through the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme (DGPP).

This initiative, launched under the governorship of Dr. Ernest Addison, aimed to bolster the country’s foreign reserves by purchasing gold from local producers using Ghanaian cedis.

Let me put on record that, the Domestic Gold Purchase Programme(DGPP) of Bank of Ghana is completely different from the Bawumia’s proposed “Gold for Oil” Policy.

As of April 2025, the BoG’s gold reserves had increased to 31.37 tonnes, representing a significant rise from 8.77 tonnes in 2022.

Also, Ghana Gold Reserves was reported at 1,000.000 Metric Ton in December 2024, and this stayed constant from the previous number of 1,000.000 Metric Ton for December 2023.

Ghana Gold Reserves data is updated yearly, averaging 1,000.000 Metric Ton from December 2008 to 2024, with 17 observations.

President John Mahama(7th Jan 2025 – Present)

President John Mahama in his second term has also establish the Ghana Gold Board(GoldBod) to contribute to the “Gold for Reserves” Policy of Ghana.

Conclusion
In summary, the Bank of Ghana first began preserving gold reserves in 1961 under President Kwame Nkrumah’s regime. After a hiatus, the practice was actively and astronomically revived in 2021 during Dr. Ernest Addison’s tenure as Governor under Domestic Gold Purchase Programme(DGPP).

…. Signed….
Razak Kojo Opoku(PhD)
Founding President, UP Tradition Institute.

The Minister of Energy, John Jinapor, has sounded another alarm over a looming nationwide power crisis, revealing that the country has less than three days’ worth of liquid fuel to power its electricity-generating plants.

Addressing the Parliamentary Committee on Energy on Thursday, May 15, Mr Jinapor stated that the Ministry is racing against time to secure billions of cedis needed to pay for new fuel supplies already ordered.

“My headache is how to get the next parcel of liquid fuel. The fuel we have will take us 2.6 days,” he told MPs.

The Minister disclosed that while some fuel has been procured on credit, the lack of immediate funding threatens to paralyze power generation across the country.

Mr Jinapor also stated that the Ministry of Finance is being engaged, but its financial constraints limit what can be done.

“We have placed an order for fuel, but it has to be paid. We’re working with the Ministry of Finance to pay, but the truth is that the Ministry also has its limits. We will be going to cabinet to discuss how we can improve the sector,” Mr Jinapor said.

The Minister hinted at renewed efforts to involve the private sector in managing part of the operations of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) for a long-term sustainable solution.

“It does not entirely solve the problem, but it takes us to another level because if the collections are reduced from the 40% to 5%, it means that we will be collecting more,” he said.

Mr Jinapor also stressed that Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) must honour their obligation to pay electricity bills and account for them in their budgets.

He added that even critical institutions, including those in health, education, security, and the presidency, require proper budgetary allocation for their energy consumption.Source: Prince Adu-Owusu

The Minority in Parliament has issued a strong warning to the government over what it describes as damaging policy choices in the mining sector. In a detailed letter dated April 21, 2025, addressed to the Ministers of Finance and Lands and Natural Resources, the group raised alarms about recent decisions that could, in their view, drive investors away, shrink the economy, and cause more job losses.

The letter, signed by Kojo Oppong Nkrumah (Ranking Member on the Economy and Development Committee), Kwaku Ampratwum Sarpong (Ranking Member on the Lands and Natural Resources Committee), and Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam (Ranking Member on the Finance Committee), described the current approach to mining regulation as “potentially dire” for the country’s economic stability.

Among their key concerns is the introduction of new tax burdens on the mining industry. These include a 3% Growth and Sustainability Levy on gross mining output, which took effect this year, and an additional levy scheduled for the years 2026 to 2028.

Mr.Kojo Oppong Nkrumah

“These royalty-like levies are putting several mines already in distress into graver financial difficulties,” the letter stated. The Minority argued that the taxes are particularly harsh on companies mining minerals that have not seen price increases, making the levies seem unfair and unsustainable.

The group also expressed serious reservations about the recently passed GOLDBOD Act, which prohibits foreign firms from engaging in gold trading and export. According to the Minority, this move not only goes against the spirit of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution — by applying the law retroactively — but also damages Ghana’s image as an investment-friendly destination. “It sends a negative signal to the global investor community,” the MPs warned.

In addition, the Minority condemned the government’s refusal to renew the mining lease of Goldfields Ghana Limited. They argued that this action discourages long-term investment and undermines confidence in the country’s business environment. Instead of denying the lease, they believe the government could have used the renewal opportunity to negotiate improved terms.

Another major issue raised in the letter is the significant cut in funding to the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF), which plays a key role in supporting Ghana’s equity interests in the mining sector. According to the Minority, the 80% budget cut to MIIF shows a lack of commitment to securing the country’s stake in natural resource development.

The MPs also drew attention to a violent incident at a mine, where eight people reportedly lost their lives. The Minority linked this event to growing anti-investor rhetoric and criticized the slow pace of investigations. They warned that such instability only deepens the fears of investors and could harm the country’s image further.

Lastly, the Minority took issue with the government’s decision to cancel Community Mining Schemes. They argued that abolishing the program has opened the door for illegal mining to thrive. “Instead of scrapping the initiative, the government should have formalised and regulated it,” the group insisted.

In their closing remarks, the Minority called on the government to take immediate action to restore confidence in the mining sector. They urged the administration to bring back lease renewals, provide incentives, stop hostile commentary, and develop a solid plan to grow local mining companies. “This is the time when government must bolster economic stability and attract, rather than discourage, foreign direct investment,” they concluded.Source:dailymailgh.com

PRESS RELEASE

The Management of Akonta Mining Company Limited has noted with grave concern the reckless and baseless accusations made against our company by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, during a recent press conference.

The Honourable Minister’s decision to publicly link Akonta Mining to illegal mining activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, and to call for the revocation of our mining license, is not only unjust and premature, but also a clear case of seeking to hang the dog and give it a bad name.

Let it be stated on record and without ambiguity:
1. Akonta Mining is a lawfully registered large-scale mining company, operating under valid leases and permits granted by the Minerals Commission. Our concessions are located in Samreboi and Abokoase — and not in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
2. In 2022, the Minerals Commission clearly stated in an official press release that:
“Akonta Mining Limited has NO mining lease, mineral right, and/or permit to undertake any mining operations in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.”
3. Our application for access to the forest reserve was never granted. Official letters from both the Minerals Commission and the Forestry Commission, dated 7th and 8th September 2022, confirm that no entry permit was issued to Akonta Mining for that forest area.
4. Contrary to the narrative being pushed, we are not mining — and have never mined — in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
5. In fact, our commitment to environmental responsibility is well documented. In a letter dated 29th April 2021, addressed to the Chairman of the Western Regional Security Council (REGSEC), Akonta Mining formally expressed our gratitude for the removal of illegal miners from our concession and outlined our intent to embark on a six-month backfilling and reclamation exercise to close the dangerous pits left behind by illegal miners — even before commencing full-scale operations.

“Although this is estimated to cost the company hugely, we consider it as imperative to ensure a responsible mining project that will protect both the community and the environment,” the letter stated.

1. As part of that commitment, over 18,000 coconut trees have already been planted, with 32,000 more expected to be planted as part of a comprehensive reclamation effort.
2. Allegations that we took GHC350,000 from illegal miners to allow access to our concession are entirely false, defamatory, and mischievous. We challenge anyone making this claim to provide evidence.
3. The suggestion that one Mr. Ayisi is a liaison between Akonta Mining and illegal mining syndicates is also completely false. We vehemently deny any knowledge or association with this individual. He does not represent, work for, or act on behalf of Akonta Mining in any capacity.
4. We are not responsible for the activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. That responsibility lies solely with the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. It is deeply concerning that state institutions are shifting blame onto a private company that has never been granted access to the said forest area.
5. The decision by the Minister to publicly accuse us and call for the revocation of our license without any investigation or hearing is not just unfair — it is a clear breach of natural justice and a politically motivated act.

We wish to assure the Ghanaian public that Akonta Mining has nothing to hide. We remain committed to transparency, legal compliance, and environmental responsibility. All our documents, permits, and official correspondences are available for public scrutiny.

Even a simple Google Earth review will reveal the geographical disconnect between our concessions and the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve — making the claims against us not only scandalous but also factually indefensible.

Akonta Mining will cooperate with any legitimate investigation and take all necessary legal steps to defend its reputation.

We ask for fairness. We demand justice. And we stand by the truth.

SIGNED:
MANAGEMENT
AKONTA MINING COMPANY LIMITED
Date: [Insert Date]

Dr. Gideon Boako (Tano North Constituency MP) writes:CHANGES IN ELECTRICITY TARIFFS IN GHANA FROM 2009 TO 2024:

The data I am sharing below depicts increases/reduction in electricity tariffs under the NDC (from 2009 to 2016) and NPP (from 2017 to 2024). It is instructive to note that both political regimes experienced IMF programmes in their first and second terms.

*Under NDC
* 2009 – nill
* 2010 – 89% increase
* 2011 – 10% increase
* 2012 – 7.42% increase
* 2013 – 58.9% increase
* 2014 – 28.35% increase
* 2015 – 90.93% increase
* 2016 – 10% increase

Under NPP
* 2017 – nill
* 2018 – 17.5% reduction
* 2019 – 17.46% increase
* 2020 – nill
* 2021 – nill
* 2022 – nill
* 2023 – 51.02% increase
* 2024 – 6.47% increase

The NDC from 2009 to 2016 did a cumulative percentage increase in electricity tariffs of 294.6%, which translates into an average increase in electricity tariffs of 36.8% over their 8 years period in government

The NPP, on the other hand, did a cumulative percentage increase in electricity tariffs of 57.45% and an average of 7.2%.

Dr.Gideon Boako and President John Mahama

While under the NDC, electricity tariffs were increased astronomically, Ghanaians at the same time were living in dumsor.

Under the Nana Addo-Bawumia government, electricity tariffs saw minimal increase with corresponding steady and reliable supply of electricity power.

Today, the government of the NDC that promised to reduce the cost of living for Ghanaians has, in their first four months in office, increased electricity tariffs by 14.75%. Coming events, they say, cast their own shadows.

And, hey! Let this not be blamed on any IMF programme because the data above shows that under the same IMF programmes, the NPP managed the electricity tariffs better.

Source: Public Utilities Regulatory Commission(PURC)

An Open Letter to President John Mahama

𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗮 𝗪𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗨𝗽 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗦𝗹𝘂𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿, 𝗚𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗺𝘀𝗲𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗚𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗮

Kwabena Frimpong [ Msc Occupational Safety, Health, and Environmental Management]

Dear President John Mahama,

I write to you as a concerned professional in the field of Occupational Safety, Health, and Environmental Management, deeply troubled by the devastating impact of illegal mining (galamsey) on our people and environment. Ghana, once a beacon of rich natural resources, now faces environmental destruction, public health crises, and socio-economic instability due to the unchecked activities of illegal miners.

Mr President on your 120 days social contract with the Ghanaian people point 19 reads “Ban illegal and new mining activities in forest reserves. Roll out our ‘Tree for Life’ and Blue Water Initiative’ to heal and sustainably harness the environment by turning areas and water bodies degraded by illegal mining into economic and ecological recovery hubs” But Today marks your 93rd day in government remaining 27 days more to the 120 days but illegal mining( Galamsey) is on its devastating effect to good people of Ghana than ever.

The Devastating Effects of Galamsey

1. Environmental Destruction

Illegal mining has led to widespread deforestation, land degradation, and the destruction of farmlands, threatening food security.

Rivers and water bodies such as the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin have been heavily polluted with mercury and other toxic chemicals, rendering them unsafe for human consumption and aquatic life.

1. Severe Health Implications

Mercury poisoning from illegal mining causes severe neurological disorders, birth defects, and other long-term health complications.

Dust and chemical exposure from mining activities contribute to respiratory diseases, endangering the lives of miners and nearby communities.

Contaminated water sources lead to an increase in waterborne diseases such as cholera and dysentery.

1. Economic and Social Disruptions

The destruction of farmlands forces many farmers into poverty, affecting Ghana’s agricultural productivity.

School dropouts increase as young people abandon education for quick money in illegal mining.

The rise of galamsey-related conflicts fuels insecurity, crime, and lawlessness, weakening national stability.

Despite benefiting from the galamsey demonstrations, the strike declared by Organised Labour, and the Catholic Conference’s Prayer Demonstration, which all took place just days before the December 7, 2024 elections, it’s shocking that you’re not taking decisive action against this menace. Instead, members of your own party are destroying our lands, forests, and water bodies through galamsey. It’s time to show the political will to fight galamsey and protect Ghana’s environment, Mr President. You are failing to act decisively in tackling this menace. The reasons are clear:

• Political Interests and Vote-Buying: Galamsey operators have strong financial influence and support politicians in exchange for protection after elections.

• Corruption and Weak Enforcement: Some officials within law enforcement and regulatory agencies are complicit, accepting bribes to turn a blind eye to illegal mining activities.

• Economic Pressure: With limited job opportunities, many Ghanaians depend on illegal mining for survival, making it politically risky for any government to take aggressive action.

• Influence of Powerful Business Interests: Some individuals with ties to high-ranking government officials and your party people profit from illegal mining, making it difficult for your government to take a firm stance against the illegal mining.

Solutions to End the Galamsey Menace

1. Strict Law Enforcement and Accountability

• Strengthen and empower the Minerals Commission, Forestry Commission and Environmental Protection Agency to regulate mining effectively not your Gold board which would encourage galamsey.

• Establish a special independent anti-galamsey task force free from political interference not that your blue water squad.

• Enforce harsher penalties, including seizing equipment and prosecuting both miners and their sponsors.

1. Sustainable Livelihood Programs

• Introduce alternative employment opportunities, such as agribusiness, vocational training, and eco-tourism, to provide economic alternatives for illegal miners.

• Establish a state-sponsored “Responsible Mining Initiative” where small-scale miners can operate legally under strict environmental guidelines.

1. Rehabilitation and Restoration of Affected Areas

• Launch a nationwide afforestation program to restore degraded lands.

• Implement water purification projects to clean polluted rivers and ensure safe drinking water for affected communities.

1. Public Awareness and Community Involvement

• Educate communities on the long-term dangers of galamsey and the benefits of sustainable environmental practices.

• Involve traditional leaders and local communities in monitoring and reporting illegal mining activities.

Mr. President, history will judge us by how you handle this crisis. It is time for bold leadership, free from political compromise like you are exhibiting now, to end this environmental and public health disaster. I urge you to take decisive action to safeguard Ghana’s natural resources for future generations. Our people deserve clean water, fertile lands, and a secure future—not the short-term gains of galamsey at the cost of national destruction, Mr President, your party. Members are destroying our lands and water bodies through illegal mining.Mr President wake up from slumber if you are still on honeymoon.

Sincerely,
Kwabena Frimpong
Occupational Safety, Health, and Environmental Management Expert
Deputy Protocol Director, NPP

Dr Kenneth Ashigbey, Convener of the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey, has strongly criticised the government’s policy of deporting foreign nationals involved in illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.

This follows Interior Minister Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka indicating that foreign nationals found engaging in galamsey will be deported.

Speaking on Channel One TV‘s The Point of View on Monday, April 7, Ashigbey described the approach as illegal and a violation of Ghana’s laws, particularly the 2019 amendment of Act 995.

Dr Kenneth Ashigbey

He expressed disbelief at the Interior Minister’s stance, emphasising that the amendment was specifically designed to remove judicial discretion and ensure strict enforcement of the law.

“The reason why we had the 2019 amendment of the law Act 995 was to take out discretion from even the judges so that the judges will not have any discretion but to ensure that the laws are imposed,” he stated.

Ashigbey argued that criminals involved in illegal mining must serve their sentences before deportation is considered.

He highlighted the risks posed by Ghana’s porous borders, citing the case of Aisha Huang, a notorious illegal miner who managed to re-enter the country and resume her activities despite being deported.

He further questioned the legality of the policy, pointing out that it undermines the enforcement of Ghana’s laws.

“If a minister looks in the face of the law and unfortunately he was talking to the police who are also supposed to be enforcing the law, you would have hoped that somebody in that room should have told the minister that the policy is illegal,” Ashigbey remarked.

Ashigbey called for stricter adherence to the law and urged authorities to prioritise the prosecution and sentencing of foreign nationals involved in illegal mining to deter future violations.Source:Abigail Arthur