The Minerals Commission has suspended the offshore reconnaissance licences granted to Goldcoast GRC Ghana Limited, following concerns from civil society organisations and other stakeholders over the potential environmental impact of the company’s proposed activities.
The suspension, directed by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah‑Kofi Buah, will remain in place until extensive consultations are completed and outstanding concerns surrounding the licences are addressed.
The Commission, in a Facebook post made on Thursday October 8, said the concerns raised by stakeholders relate mainly to the potential effects of the proposed reconnaissance activities on the marine environment and the adequacy of consultations with communities, groups and other persons who may be affected.
The Commission has consequently 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 issued to enable the company to explore the area and provide verifiable data on the country’s mineral resources. However, the company was required to obtain all other mandatory statutory approvals before commencing exploration activities.
The Commission said the decision to suspend the licences is intended to allow the government to address all outstanding matters, ensure stakeholder alignment and provide an opportunity for concerns raised over the proposed operations to be properly considered.
It added that the suspension forms part of efforts to ensure that mineral resources are managed in a responsible, transparent and inclusive manner.
The Commission further noted that Ghana’s mineral resources are held in trust for the people under the 1992 Constitution and are subject to the legal and regulatory framework governing 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.
