Akonta Mining Limited has firmly denied allegations of engaging in illegal mining within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, following the revocation of its licence by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, the minister accused Akonta Mining—owned by the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi—of illegally operating in protected forest reserves without the requisite permits.
According to the minister, although Akonta Mining possesses a valid licence to operate outside forest reserves, it had been found encroaching upon the Aboi and Tano Nimiri Forest Reserves in the Western North Region. The revelations were part of findings from an undercover investigation, which also alleged that the company had been selling access to the reserves to illegal miners.
In a swift rebuttal, Akonta Mining issued a strongly worded statement, describing the minister’s allegations as “false and misleading” and the licence revocation as a breach of natural justice.
“We are not responsible for the activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. That responsibility lies solely with the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources,” the company said in its statement.
The mining company argued that it had never been granted access to operate within the said forest reserves and accused state institutions of scapegoating it for systemic failures.
“The decision by the minister to publicly accuse us and call for the revocation of our licence without any investigation or hearing is not just unfair — it is a clear breach of natural justice and a politically motivated act,” the company added.
Akonta Mining further reaffirmed its commitment to lawful operations, environmental stewardship, and corporate transparency.
“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 statement noted.
The revocation of Akonta Mining’s licence comes amid growing national concern over illegal mining (galamsey), which continues to degrade Ghana’s forests, pollute rivers, and threaten livelihoods in affected communities.
While the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources insists that it is taking decisive action to safeguard the country’s natural resources, Akonta Mining’s sharp pushback sets the stage for what could become a protracted legal and political battle.
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