The Minerals Commission has suspended the offshore reconnaissance licences granted to Goldcoast GRC Ghana Limited following concerns from civil society organisations and other stakeholders about the potential environmental impact of the company’s proposed activities.
The suspension was directed by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, and will remain in place until extensive consultations are completed and outstanding concerns surrounding the licences are addressed.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, October 8, the Minerals Commission said the concerns raised by stakeholders mainly relate to the possible impact of the proposed reconnaissance activities on the marine environment.
Stakeholders have also raised questions about whether adequate consultations have been held with communities, groups and other persons who could be affected by the proposed activities.
The Commission has therefore directed Goldcoast GRC Ghana Limited to “suspend all activities under the licences with immediate effect” pending the completion of the stakeholder engagement process.
The licences were granted to the company on February 9, 2026, to undertake reconnaissance activities within Ghana’s territorial waters near Atwiwa in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region.
According to the Commission, the licences were intended to allow the company to explore the area and generate verifiable data on Ghana’s mineral resources.
However, the company was required to obtain all other mandatory statutory approvals before beginning exploration activities.
The Commission said the suspension will give the government an opportunity to address outstanding issues, ensure proper stakeholder engagement and consider concerns raised about the proposed operations.
It added that the decision forms part of efforts to ensure Ghana’s mineral resources are managed responsibly, transparently and inclusively.
The Commission further noted that Ghana’s mineral resources are held in trust for the people under the 1992 Constitution and are governed by the country’s laws and regulatory framework on the granting and management of mineral rights.
“The Minerals Commission categorically clarifies that the ministerial directive is not a cancellation, revocation or termination of the licences. The licences remain in force, subject to their terms and the applicable laws and regulatory requirements.
“The directive relates solely to the suspension of operational activities pending the completion of all stakeholder engagements required by the applicable legislation,” the commission added.
