A coalition of 24 civil society organisations (CSOs) and fisheries stakeholders has commended the Government of Ghana for suspending offshore gold reconnaissance activities. However, the groups are demanding the complete revocation of all ten licences. This call comes after the government halted exploration along Ghana's western continental shelf.
The CSOs, in a second open letter to President John Dramani Mahama dated 13 October 2026, described the suspension as an "important and responsible precautionary step." They warned that a mere suspension cannot resolve the fundamental concerns. The licences reportedly cover approximately 10,000 square kilometres of Ghana's continental shelf, including waters critical for fisheries resources and livelihoods.
This development fits into Ghana's broader economic narrative of balancing resource extraction with environmental protection and community welfare. The nation relies heavily on its natural resources, including gold and fisheries, for economic growth and employment. Previous debates around mining, particularly 'galamsey' (illegal small-scale mining), have highlighted the tension between economic activity and environmental degradation. The current situation underscores the increasing scrutiny on large-scale resource projects and their potential impact on vulnerable sectors like fishing.
The coalition welcomed the Minerals Commission's letter of 05 October 2026. This letter, issued under the direction of the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, ordered the immediate suspension of all activities under the licences. This suspension is to remain until consultations are completed and written ministerial authorisation is granted for resumption. The CSOs noted, however, that GoldCoast GRC Ghana Limited's own website claims the Minerals Commission has not suspended the licences. The Commission itself acknowledges concerns about potential environmental and ecological impacts and inadequate consultations.
The CSOs' demands carry significant implications for Ghana's 'blue economy' strategy, which aims to sustainably manage ocean resources. The government's response will signal its commitment to environmental stewardship and the protection of coastal communities. Decision-makers must weigh the potential economic benefits of offshore gold exploration against the risks to marine biodiversity, food security, and the livelihoods of millions of Ghanaians. The ongoing review must ensure transparency, legality, and sound scientific assessment.
The coalition highlighted several legal questions that remain unresolved. They pointed to Section 32(3) of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), which prohibits a reconnaissance licence holder from engaging in drilling or excavation. They also cited Section 99(6) concerning the use of floating platforms for mining or dredging in Ghana's territorial sea, Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and continental shelf. The review must also consider the expanded 12-nautical-mile Inshore Exclusion Zone under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146). The company's published map indicates substantial portions of the licensed area intersect shallow coastal waters that support artisanal fisheries.
The groups respectfully requested three key actions from the government. First, they want the government to maintain the suspension pending complete revocation of all offshore reconnaissance licences. They also demand the publication of all licence instruments, coordinates, maps, work programmes, and approvals for transparency. Second, they urge a comprehensive legal, environmental, fisheries, and socio-economic review. This review must be supported by meaningful stakeholder engagement and Free, Prior, and Informed Consultations with fishing communities, fish processors, traditional authorities, state institutions, and academia. Finally, the coalition demands the complete revocation of all offshore gold reconnaissance licences. This is due to significant risks to fisheries resources, marine biodiversity, coastal livelihoods, food security, and Ghana's blue economy objectives.
The letter, signed by 24 organisations including the National Fisheries Association of Ghana (NAFAG) and Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF), states, "Ghana now stands at an important crossroads." It adds, "The decision before Government is not simply about a set of mineral licences. It is about determining how our oceans and marine resources will be managed for current and future generations." This statement underscores the long-term significance of the government's decision on these offshore gold exploration activities. The outcome will set a precedent for future resource management in Ghana.