According to the most recent GBC report, the government of Ghana has officially terminated Akonta Mining Company Ltd.'s mining license for illicit mining in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. The company is apparently tied to Bernard Antwi Boasiako, better known as Chairman Wontumi, the New Patriotic Party's Ashanti Regional Chairman.

The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources announced this action. He claimed the corporation was mining in the forest without legal permission, which violates the country's mining rules. He has directed the Minerals Commission to immediately cancel the company's mining lease. The Minister also directed the Forestry Commission to take action against any employees who assisted the enterprise in mining illegally.

This move is part of President John Dramani Mahama's vigorous efforts to combat illegal mining, sometimes known as 'galamsey'. Galamsey has done significant damage to the environment, particularly to water bodies and forest reserves. The government has committed to prosecute those who sponsor such illicit activities, and Akonta Mining has been identified as one of the primary perpetrators.



Investigations revealed that Akonta Mining entered the forest reserve without a proper authorization, causing environmental damage. It was determined that the corporation operated six illegal mining operations within the forest.

On April 17, 2025, security officers, comprising the Ghana Police and Forestry Commission, detained 51 people on the site. Eight Chinese nationals and 43 Ghanaians were arrested. They also confiscated approximately 30 excavators, firearms, trucks, motorcycles, and other equipment.

The Minister has made it plain that enterprises that flout the law would have their licenses revoked. He also stated that the government will expose and punish everyone implicated, regardless of who they are.

This serves as a warning to all mining companies to follow the laws and protect Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.