Oti House of Chiefs Calls for Review of Minerals and Mining Policy Act
The President of the Oti House of Chiefs, Nana Soglo Alloh IV, has urged government to undertake a comprehensive review of Ghana’s Minerals and Mining Policy Act to better reflect the interests of traditional authorities and local communities.
The call was made during the 15th regional consultation held in Dambai between the Minerals Commission, under the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, and the Oti Regional House of Chiefs. The nationwide consultation seeks to gather inputs from traditional leaders, mining communities, and stakeholders on reforms to the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703) and the 2014 Minerals and Mining Policy.
Chiefs Demand Stronger Role in Mining Decisions
Nana Soglo Alloh, who also serves as the Paramount Chief of the Likpe Traditional Area, raised concerns over the practice of granting mining leases without the prior consent of chiefs. According to him, sidelining traditional authorities erodes their legitimacy and risks creating conflicts between communities and mining firms.
He proposed a constitutional amendment to prioritize the rights and interests of landowners over those of the state and further called for the establishment of a regional Minerals Commission office in Oti to ensure more effective regulation and oversight of mining activities.
Minerals Commission Responds
Responding to the chiefs’ concerns, Dr. Ahmed Tijani, Manager of Corporate Affairs and IT at the Minerals Commission, admitted that engagement with traditional authorities has not always been adequate in the past. However, he assured that the Commission is committed to improving consultations before licenses are issued to mining companies.
Dr. Tijani emphasized that global developments—including climate change action, advances in mining technology, and the growing demand for transition minerals such as lithium—make it necessary for Ghana to modernize its mining laws. He stressed that any amendments must strike a balance between economic growth, environmental protection, and the welfare of host communities.
Towards a More Inclusive Mining Framework
The ongoing review aims to ensure greater transparency, inclusivity, and accountability in the management of Ghana’s natural resources. By drawing insights from chiefs, civil society, policymakers, and industry players, the Minerals Commission hopes to shape a framework that benefits both the nation and local communities that host mining operations.
The Oti Regional consultation forms part of a broader national dialogue expected to influence the final amendments to Ghana’s Minerals and Mining legal regime.
Source: My News Ghana
