Social licence to mine can be withdrawn – Ga Mantse warns mining companies

King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the Ga Mantse, has cautioned mining companies that their social license to operate in communities can be withdrawn if they do not behave responsibly. He clarified that this social license is not a legal document granted by a minister or regulatory body, but rather a continuous acceptance from traditional authorities and affected communities.

At the National Mining Dialogue 2026 in Accra, the Chairperson emphasized that chiefs, queen mothers, farmers, and others within the community play a vital role in maintaining trust and support for mining activities. He warned that, like any license, it can be withdrawn. The Ga Mantse stressed that mining involves a generational inheritance, with land serving as the foundation for communities and livelihoods.

As traditional authorities, it is their responsibility to ensure that mining decisions consider the interests of both current and future generations. He urged mining companies to recognize that their operations will eventually cease, while the land and its people will remain. He called for greater commitment to reclamation of mined lands and responsible mining practices.

The Ga Mantse acknowledged that well-managed mining can positively impact communities by providing infrastructure and economic opportunities. However, he emphasized that these benefits must come with meaningful local participation, such as hiring Ghanaians and ensuring corporate social responsibility is a sustained commitment. He urged all stakeholders to recognize the responsibility that comes with granting access to mineral resources and to strive for a sustainable balance between mining and community interests.