The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has issued a strong warning to mining companies, stating that failure to prevent illegal mining activities within their concessions will attract strict regulatory sanctions.
In a press release dated April 23, 2026, the Authority reaffirmed its mandate under the Environmental Protection Act, 2025 and related regulations, stressing that all licensed operators are legally required to protect the environmental integrity of their concession areas.
The EPA expressed concern over the increasing incidence of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, within legally acquired concessions, noting that the trend is worsening environmental degradation across the country.
It cited major impacts including pollution of rivers and water bodies, destruction of forest reserves, and widespread land degradation, warning that such developments undermine national environmental protection efforts and lawful mining operations.
To address the situation, the Authority has directed all mining companies to take immediate action by tightening security within their concessions, implementing effective monitoring and surveillance systems, and promptly reporting any illegal activities to state authorities.
Mining firms have also been reminded to strictly adhere to all conditions tied to their environmental permits, including approved Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and Environmental Management Plans, while ensuring pollution prevention within their operational zones.
The EPA cautioned that failure to comply will be treated as a breach of permit conditions and could result in sanctions such as suspension or revocation of environmental permits, fines, and joint enforcement actions with security agencies.
As part of efforts to strengthen compliance, the Authority announced a nationwide monitoring exercise across all mining concessions, scheduled to begin on May 10, 2026.
The exercise will assess adherence to environmental standards, with companies urged to ensure full compliance ahead of the inspections.
The EPA reiterated its commitment to enforcing environmental laws and called on mining firms to support national efforts to combat illegal mining and protect Ghana’s natural resources.
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