Sanaa:The Minerals Commission has instructed Goldcoast GRC Ghana Limited to cease all activities under its offshore reconnaissance licences due to environmental concerns and insufficient consultation with affected parties.
According to Ghana Web, the suspension is effective immediately and will continue until necessary stakeholder engagements are completed and concerns are addressed. The licences pertain to an area in Ghana's territorial waters near Atwiwa in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region.
The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the regulator received objections from civil society organizations and other stakeholders regarding the company's proposed activities. The objections focus on the potential environmental and ecological impacts, as well as the adequacy of consultations with those likely to be affected.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has directed the suspension to facilitate broader engagement. The Commission emphasized that this directive does not cancel or revoke the licences, which remain valid but temporarily inactive.
Goldcoast received the licences on February 9, 2026, to conduct preliminary investigations into the area's mineral resources. The company is required to secure all other mandatory approvals before beginning exploration activities.
During the suspension, Goldcoast must work with the Commission, relevant state institutions, and affected stakeholders to address regulatory, environmental, and social concerns. The Commission stated that this pause allows for comprehensive consideration of the issues before resuming operations and reiterated its dedication to public consultation and the protection of Ghana's natural resources.