Akonta Mining dismisses galamsey claims as politically driven

Akonta Mining Limited has firmly rejected claims that it is involved in illegal mining within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. This comes after the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, announced the revocation of the company’s mining license.

At a press briefing on Monday, April 21, 2025, the Minister accused Akonta Mining — a company linked to the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, also known as Chairman Wontumi — of carrying out mining operations in forest reserves without proper authorization.

He clarified that although the company has the legal right to operate in areas outside forest reserves, it was found to have entered the Aboi and Tano Nimiri Forest Reserves in the Western North Region, which goes against mining regulations.

In a swift response, Akonta Mining dismissed the allegations, calling them “false and misleading.” The company also criticized the license revocation, calling it a violation of their rights.

“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,” the company said in a statement.

The company expressed disappointment over what it described as an attempt to shift blame. “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.”

Akonta Mining went further to describe the Minister’s actions as unjust. “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.”

The company also assured the public of its commitment to legal and transparent operations. “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.”

This development adds to the growing national concern about illegal mining and its harmful effects on forests and water bodies in Ghana.

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