Ghana Chamber of Mines challenges Reuters over mining bill report

The Ghana Chamber of Mines has formally challenged a Reuters report regarding the proposed Minerals and Mining Bill 2026, alleging that the publication misrepresented key legal provisions and the state's existing powers. In a statement released on October 7, 2026, the Chamber expressed concern that the news agency’s September 30 report inaccurately portrayed the government's "special-share" authority and the framework governing mining lease durations. The industry body urged for accurate reporting to prevent misinformation from damaging international investor confidence and distorting the policy landscape.

A primary point of contention involves the "special-share" provision, which the Chamber claims Reuters framed as a new development in the 2026 Bill. However, the Chamber clarified that these rights—which grant the state consent over significant corporate transactions—are already established under Section 60 of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703). According to the Chamber, the proposed 2026 legislation does not introduce a new power but rather seeks to strengthen the enforcement of the existing framework by introducing more stringent sanctions for non-compliance.

The Chamber also highlighted significant discrepancies between the text of the proposed Bill and previous public statements made by the government regarding the duration of mining leases. While government rhetoric had suggested specific changes, the Chamber pointed out that any adjustments to the tenure of leases must be explicitly codified through parliamentary amendments. They emphasized that consistent and clear communication is essential for the industry, as conflicting information can lead to uncertainty for both current operators and prospective investors.

Reiterating its commitment to the development of the sector, the Ghana Chamber of Mines confirmed it is reaching out to Reuters for a formal clarification of the facts. The body stressed that as Ghana undergoes these legislative reforms, constructive engagement between the state and private stakeholders is vital. The Chamber remains focused on ensuring that the final Minerals and Mining Bill 2026 creates a balanced environment that protects national interests while maintaining the country’s attractiveness as a premier mining destination.