Minerals Commission revokes Northern Ashanti Mines rights over $8m debt

The Minerals Commission of Ghana has affirmed the legality of its decision to terminate the mineral rights of Northern Ashanti Mines Limited (NAML) following the company’s failure to settle more than $8 million in outstanding statutory fees. According to the Commission, the revocation followed multiple notices and a history of financial defaults and documented breaches by the mining firm, which was formerly known as Owere Mines. The Commission’s Chief Executive Officer, Isaac Andrews Tandoh, emphasized that holding mineral rights is a privilege that carries strict legal and financial obligations to the state, noting that NAML had failed to maintain active operations for over two years.

Traditional authorities in the Asante Akyem region, including chiefs from Konongo and Juansa, have expressed strong support for the Commission's action. The local leaders cited years of poor performance, environmental degradation, and a total neglect of community development as primary reasons for their backing. The chiefs highlighted that the company's inactivity had allowed illegal mining to flourish on the concession, further damaging local water bodies. They have called on the government to ensure that any future investor is financially capable and committed to responsible mining practices that benefit the local population.

In response to NAML’s public claims of innocence and procedural violations, the Minerals Commission has urged the company to pursue its grievances through the judiciary rather than the media. CEO Isaac Tandoh criticized the firm’s public statements, asserting that they contradict the documented history of the company's defaults. While NAML has initiated legal action to contest the revocation under the Minerals and Mining Act, the state has already moved to secure the mine’s assets. A military presence remains at the site to maintain order as the government prepares for further administrative actions regarding the concession.