The Chief Executive of the Minerals Commission, Martin Ayisi, has been reassigned to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources.

The move comes months after mounting pressure from mining groups on the government to remove him.

In April 2025, the National Concerned Small-Scale Miners Association of Ghana (NCSSMAG) accused Ayisi’s leadership of failing to provide effective solutions in the fight against illegal mining.

Minerals Commission holds orientation workshop for blue water guards

According to the Association’s President, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, the Commission’s “actions and inactions” had contributed significantly to land and water degradation.

He maintained that reforms at the Commission were crucial to strengthening the government’s anti-galamsey efforts.

The reasons for Ayisi’s reassignment remain unclear, as does the role he is expected to play at the Ministry following the move.

Martin Ayisi is said to have been with the Minerals Commission of Ghana for much of his career, previously serving as a Senior Legal Officer.

He returned to the Commission in 2017 as Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Promotion and Development, appointed by then-Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, John Peter Amewu, under President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration.

On March 21, 2021, Ayisi was appointed Acting CEO of the Minerals Commission, succeeding Addae Antwi-Boasiako, who proceeded on leave.

He later became the substantive CEO, a position he held until his reassignment to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources on August 27, 2025.

SP/MA

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