Akonta Mining Company Limited has filed a defamation lawsuit against the Minerals Commission and the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, seeking GH₵20 million in damages.
The lawsuit, filed at the Accra High Court on April 24, stems from public comments made by Minister Buah during a press conference on April 22. The Minister accused Akonta Mining of operating illegally within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve and of engaging in corrupt practices.
In his remarks, Mr. Buah alleged that Akonta Mining had become a “criminal syndicate,” facilitating illegal mining—commonly known as galamsey—and selling mining concessions within the Aboi Forest Reserve for up to GH₵300,000. He also claimed that the company received gold royalties from unauthorised miners operating under its protection, contributing to severe environmental degradation, including damage to the River Tano and surrounding forests.
“These actions not only breach our environmental laws but pose a significant threat to protected forest reserves,” the Minister stated.
The day prior, on April 21, Mr. Buah had ordered the immediate revocation of all mining licenses held by Akonta Mining, citing breaches of mining regulations and illegal activity.
In response, Akonta Mining denies all allegations, insisting that it holds two valid 10-year leases issued in 2021 for operations in the Samreboe and Abokoase areas—locations it claims lie outside the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. The company further asserts that it has complied fully with regulatory requirements, including the payment of $301,000 in mineral rights fees and ground rents.
Akonta Mining contends that the Minister’s statements were false, defamatory, and have damaged the company’s reputation. As part of the lawsuit, the company is seeking:
- GH₵20 million in damages for defamation
- A public retraction and apology from the Minister
- A court injunction preventing any further allegedly false statements
The case underscores growing tensions between the government and mining operators amid intensified efforts to combat illegal mining and protect Ghana’s natural reserves.
