Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, has upheld the revocation of mining leases held by Adamus Resources Limited. This decision follows the final report from an Inter-Ministerial Committee, which reviewed the company's petition against the initial revocation.
The committee's findings revealed substantial financial and operational breaches by Adamus Resources. The company owes GHS 86.8 million in unpaid royalties and GHS 290.5 million in tax arrears. Additionally, Adamus Resources failed to pay US$2.56 million in mineral rights fees. These financial irregularities contributed significantly to the Minister's final determination.
This action fits into Ghana's broader effort to ensure compliance within its vital mining sector and maximize revenue from natural resources. The government has been increasingly focused on enforcing mining laws and recovering outstanding financial obligations from companies operating in the country. This move signals a firm stance against non-compliance and aims to protect Ghana's economic interests.
The initial revocation in April 2026 stemmed from recommendations by the Minerals Commission. Investigations by the Inspectorate Division of the Minerals Commission uncovered sustained and material breaches of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703). These violations included unauthorized assignment of mineral rights, with the company subleasing concessions to foreign nationals without ministerial approval. Adamus Resources also mined outside demarcated areas without an approved Operating Permit, contravening Regulations 200(1)(b) and 200(1)(d) of the Minerals and Mining (Licensing) Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2176).
Furthermore, the company failed to obtain requisite environmental and forestry approvals from the Environmental Protection Authority before commencing operations. The review committee also found that Adamus deliberately concealed information and provided misleading data. It also uncovered that the company transferred US$224 million to related parties abroad between 2020 and 2024, and environmental bonds remain only partially fulfilled.
Following this decision, Minister Buah and officials from the Ministry and the Minerals Commission visited the mine site. They engaged with stakeholders, including workers, to assure them of uninterrupted operations. The Minerals Commission will ensure continuity until the government announces a further decision regarding the mine's future. Minister Buah intends to secure an order for Adamus to fully and promptly fulfill its royalty, tax, and other financial liabilities to the Government of Ghana.
This decisive action by the Minister underscores the government's commitment to accountability and transparency in the mining sector. It sends a clear message to other mining companies about the consequences of non-compliance with Ghanaian laws and regulations. The recovery of these significant arrears will provide a boost to public finances. Future developments will likely focus on the process of recovering the outstanding GHS 377.3 million and the long-term operational status of the affected mining sites.