The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources has directed the immediate revocation of the Akango, Salman and Nkroful mining leases held by Adamus Resources Limited over multiple violations of Ghana’s mining laws.
The decision follows investigations by the Minerals Commission, which confirmed unauthorised and illegal mining activities within the company’s concessions.
According to a press release issued on April 26, 2026, the findings revealed that Adamus Resources Limited engaged in unlawful sub-contracting of its mining operations without the required ministerial approval, in breach of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703).
The investigations further established that mining activities were carried out without approved operating plans or valid permits from the Chief Inspector of Mines, contrary to Regulation 8(1) of the Minerals and Mining (Health, Safety and Technical) Regulations, 2012 (LI 2182).
The company was also found to have failed to secure the necessary approvals from key regulatory bodies, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Additionally, foreign nationals, particularly Chinese operators, were reportedly engaged in illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, on the concessions, in violation of provisions under the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 995).
Authorities noted that mining operations were conducted in a substandard manner, often outside designated areas and away from approved infrastructure, resulting in significant environmental damage, including land degradation and threats to water bodies and local livelihoods.
Based on the severity of the breaches, the Minister, acting on the advice of the Minerals Commission under Section 100(2) of Act 703, determined that revoking the mineral rights was necessary in the public interest.
The Ministry indicated that the revocation does not preclude possible criminal prosecution of the company, its directors, and management.
It further assured that steps would be taken to protect the livelihoods of workers affected by the decision, with additional measures to be announced in due course.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating illegal mining and protecting the country’s natural resources.
