The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has warned mining operators to comply with Ghana’s environmental and mining regulations or face sanctions, including the suspension or revocation of permits.
The authority said it would intensify monitoring and enforcement efforts across the mining sector to ensure that mining activities do not harm the environment or undermine livelihoods.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer of the EPA, Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, at the launch of the Tree for Life Reforestation Initiative on Friday, June 5, 2026, the Deputy Chief Executive (General Services), Prof. Jacob Paarechuga Anankware, said while mining remains important to the country’s economy, operators must adhere strictly to environmental requirements.
“We urge enforcement, especially in the mining sector. Mining remains an important part of Ghana’s economy. However, we cannot allow any economic activity to destroy the very ecosystems that support our livelihoods,” he said.
According to him, the EPA will continue to monitor both legal and illegal mining activities to ensure compliance with environmental standards.
“The EPA will continue to monitor compliance for both legal and illegal mining. Mining concession holders must secure their concessions,” Prof. Anankware said.
He stressed that concession holders have a responsibility to prevent illegal mining activities within their operational areas and to comply with approved environmental management measures.
“They must prevent illegal mining in their areas, comply with the terms of the environmental impact statements and environmental management plans, and ensure that the operations do not pollute our water bodies, degrade our lands, or destroy our forests,” he said.
Prof. Anankware warned that the authority would not hesitate to invoke the law against operators who fail to meet their obligations.
“When operators fail to comply, the authority will apply the law, which includes administrative penalties, suspension or revocation of environmental permits, and collaboration with security agencies, as well as other state agencies to enforce compliance,” he said.
