Akonta Mining Limited has strongly denied accusations of illegal mining activities within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, following the revocation of its operating license by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.
At a press briefing on Monday, April 21, 2025, the Minister accused Akonta Mining, owned by Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Chairman Wontumi), the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), of unlawfully operating within forest reserves without the required permits.
The Minister clarified that while Akonta Mining holds a valid license to operate outside of forest reserves, the company had allegedly encroached upon the Aboi and Tano Nimiri Forest Reserves in the Western North Region.
In response, Akonta Mining issued a statement rejecting the allegations as “false and misleading” and termed the revocation of its license as a violation of natural justice.
“We are not responsible for activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. That responsibility lies entirely with the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources,” the company stated.
“It is deeply concerning that state institutions are shifting blame onto a private company that has never been granted access to the said forest area. The Minister’s decision to publicly accuse us and call for the revocation of our license without any investigation or hearing is not only unfair but also a clear breach of natural justice and a politically motivated act,” the statement continued.
Akonta Mining reiterated its commitment to operating within legal frameworks and maintaining transparency in its operations.
“We wish to assure the Ghanaian public that Akonta Mining has nothing to hide. We remain committed to transparency, legal compliance, and environmental responsibility. All our documents, permits, and official correspondences are available for public scrutiny,” the company said.
The revocation and the company’s response come amid heightened national concern over illegal mining and its devastating impact on Ghana’s forests and water bodies.
