Over 2,000 mining and related licenses issued since 2017
The issuance of mining and mining-related licenses in Ghana has become a focal point of discussion, reflecting the country's abundant mineral resources as well as concerns regarding regulatory practices and illegal mining, commonly referred to as ‘galamsey.’ The increasing tension around the number of licenses granted by successive governments highlights the complexities of managing this critical sector.
Licenses Issued
As of now, the Ghana Mining Repository reports that a total of 2,250 mining and mining-related licenses have been issued since 1988, with projections extending to 2025 due to one license set to begin that year.
Period Analysis
The analysis divides the issuance of licenses into three key periods:
- From 1988 to 2008: A total of 40 licenses were issued.
- 2009 to 2016: This period saw a slight increase, with 59 licenses granted.
- 2017 to 2025: A significant surge occurred, with 2,151 licenses issued, indicating a marked increase in mining activities.
Current License Status
Out of the total licenses, the current status is as follows:
- 2,202 licenses are active and operational.
- 18 licenses have been suspended.
- 29 licenses are under review.
- 1 license is pending.
Peak Years for License Issuance
The highest annual issuance of licenses occurred in 2020, with 824 licenses granted. This was closely followed by 614 licenses issued in 2024 (January to date). Notably, both peak years align with general election cycles, suggesting a possible connection between political events and licensing activities.
Daily License Issuance Records
A remarkable peak was recorded on January 1, 2024, when 330 licenses were issued in a single day. This figure surpasses the total number of licenses issued from 1988 to 2016, signifying a dramatic shift in the scale and pace of licensing activities in recent years. This analysis underscores the evolving landscape of mining in Ghana, marked by an unprecedented increase in licenses that reflects both the potential for growth and challenges posed by illegal mining practices.
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