Accra:Some civil society organizations have praised the decision by the government to suspend offshore gold reconnaissance activities but are calling for the complete revocation of all such licenses in Ghana's waters.
According to Ghana Web, the 14 organizations involved include the National Fisheries Association of Ghana, Environmental Justice Foundation, Global Fisheries and Resilience Action, Hen Mpoano, Oceana, Friends of the Nation, and the Ghana National Canoe Fishermen Council. In a letter to the President dated October 13, 2026, the groups stated that while the suspension is a positive step, it is insufficient to address their concerns about the potentially adverse effects of offshore mineral exploration on fisheries and coastal communities.
The organizations emphasized that the principles of sustainability, transparency, and stewardship should guide the future of Ghana's oceans. They argue that any benefits from offshore mineral development must be weighed against the risks to fisheries resources, marine biodiversity, and the livelihoods of millions of Ghanaians.
The CSOs had previously petitioned the government on September 28 regarding the activities of Gold Coast GRC Ghana Ltd on Ghana's western continental shelf. They also referenced a letter from the Minerals Commission dated October 5, 2026, which ordered the suspension of all activities under the licenses, pending further consultation.
Despite this, information from Gold Coast GRC Ghana Ltd's website suggested activities had not been halted, prompting the groups to stress that a simple suspension would not address the core concerns raised by stakeholders. They advocate for a review process to assess not only the resumption of activities but also the compatibility of offshore gold exploration with Ghana's fisheries, blue economy goals, food security objectives, and the interests of coastal communities.
The organizations highlighted the ocean's significance as a source of food, employment, cultural identity, and economic survival for millions and called for decisions affecting marine ecosystems to meet high standards of transparency, legality, scientific scrutiny, and public participation. They expressed concern over the licenses reportedly covering about 10,000 square kilometers of Ghana's continental shelf, impacting essential fisheries resources and fishing community livelihoods.
Citing concerns from the Fisheries Commission about the environmental implications of the licenses, the CSOs emphasized the need for a precautionary approach prioritizing the sustainability of Ghana's fisheries. They urged that the review outcome comply with the Minerals and Mining Act, the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, the 1992 Constitution, and other relevant laws and regulations, advocating for a comprehensive review of the proposed program's legal and responsible progression.