The Government of Ghana has taken decisive action against Akonta Mining Company Ltd., reportedly owned by Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources has ordered the immediate revocation of the company’s mining lease due to unauthorized operations within the protected Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
In a recent media briefing in Accra, the Minister highlighted that Akonta Mining’s activities in the forest reserve were illegal and constituted a violation of Ghana’s mining laws. He also instructed the Forestry Commission to suspend any officials found to have facilitated these unlawful activities.
This initiative aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s strong commitment to combat illegal mining, commonly referred to as ‘galamsey,’ which has significantly harmed the nation’s environment. The government has pledged to trace and prosecute those financing such operations, with Akonta Mining identified as a major offender.
Investigations revealed that Akonta Mining, lacking the required permits, encroached on the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, resulting in extensive environmental degradation. Reports indicate that the company operated six illegal mining sites within the reserve.
On April 17, 2025, an intelligence-led operation by the Ghana Police Service and the Forestry Commission led to the arrest of 51 individuals, including eight Chinese nationals and 43 Ghanaians. The operation also resulted in the seizure of approximately 30 excavators, firearms, vehicles, motorbikes, and various mining equipment.
The Minister has empowered the Minerals Commission to revoke Akonta Mining’s licenses and directed the Forestry Commission to suspend implicated officials. He emphasized that the government will not hesitate to name, shame, and prosecute anyone involved in illegal mining, irrespective of their status.
This action serves as a stern warning to all mining companies operating in Ghana to strictly comply with the nation’s mining laws and regulations. The government remains resolute in its fight against illegal mining to safeguard the country’s natural resources for future generations.
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