8 hours Ago By News Ghana
News Ghana, Latest Updates and Breaking News of Ghana, News Ghana, https://newsghana.com.gh/akonta-mining-rejects-illegal-mining-allegations-calls-ministers-claims-unfounded/Akonta Mining Limited has issued a forceful denial of allegations connecting the company to unlawful mining activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
The rebuttal comes in response to public statements by Lands and Natural Resources Minister Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, who recently called for the revocation of the company’s mining license.In an official statement, the mining firm categorically stated it has never conducted operations within the protected forest area. “Responsibility for the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve rests exclusively with state agencies, specifically the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources,” the company asserted.
The company expressed strong objections to the minister’s public accusations, characterizing them as premature and lacking due process. “It is troubling that state institutions would attempt to attribute responsibility to a private entity that has never been authorized to operate in this forest reserve,” the statement read. The mining firm further described the minister’s actions as “a violation of natural justice principles” and suggested political motivations behind the allegations.
Minister Buah had earlier claimed that Akonta Mining facilitated illegal mining by selling concessions to unauthorized operators for 300,000 Ghana cedis each, while allegedly receiving weekly royalty payments of 250 grams of gold. These allegations were presented during a press briefing on April 21, where the minister accused the company of providing cover for destructive mining practices in the Aboi Forest Reserve.Akonta Mining maintains its operations have consistently adhered to legal and environmental standards.
“We operate with complete transparency and welcome scrutiny of all our permits and official documentation,” the company stated, inviting public examination of its regulatory compliance records.The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between regulatory authorities and mining operators in Ghana’s natural resource sector. Environmental advocates have long raised concerns about illegal mining’s impact on forest reserves, though allegations against licensed operators remain relatively uncommon.
The situation underscores the challenges in balancing mineral resource development with environmental protection, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas.As the controversy develops, industry observers note the importance of thorough investigations to establish factual accuracy while preserving the rights of all parties involved. The outcome may influence future regulatory approaches to mining operations near protected areas in Ghana.
News Ghana, Latest Updates and Breaking News of Ghana, News Ghana, https://newsghana.com.gh/akonta-mining-rejects-illegal-mining-allegations-calls-ministers-claims-unfounded/.
