Akonta Mining Limited has strongly denied allegations of illegal mining activities within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve, following the revocation of its mining license by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah.
At a press briefing on Monday, April 21, 2025, the Minister accused Akonta Mining—owned by Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi—of operating unlawfully within forest reserves without proper authorization.
According to the Minister, although Akonta Mining holds a valid license to operate outside of forest reserves, it had allegedly encroached upon the Aboi and Tano Nimiri Forest Reserves in the Western North Region.
In a swift response, Akonta Mining issued a strongly worded statement describing the allegations as “false and misleading” and the revocation of its license as a “clear breach of natural justice.”
“We are not responsible for the activities in the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve. That responsibility lies solely with the Forestry Commission and the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources,” the company asserted.
Akonta Mining criticized the Minister’s actions, accusing him of publicly tarnishing the company’s reputation without due process.
“The decision by the Minister to publicly accuse us and call for the revocation of our license without any investigation or hearing is not just unfair — it is a clear breach of natural justice and a politically motivated act,” the company said.
The mining firm insisted that it has always operated transparently and legally, emphasizing that it holds valid leases and permits issued by the Minerals Commission for operations in Samreboi and Abokoase — not within the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve.
“All our documents, permits, and official correspondences are available for public scrutiny,” Akonta Mining added, stressing its commitment to transparency, legal compliance, and environmental responsibility.
The company also dismissed claims that it received GH¢350,000 from illegal miners as “entirely false, defamatory, and mischievous.”
“We vehemently deny any knowledge or association with one Mr. Ayisi, who is falsely alleged to be linked to us,” Akonta Mining stated, challenging anyone with evidence to substantiate such claims to come forward.
Further clarifying its position, the company explained that while it had requested access to the Tano Nimiri Forest Reserve in 2022, the request was denied by both the Minerals Commission and the Forestry Commission. Therefore, it has never conducted mining operations in the said forest reserve.
Highlighting its environmental efforts, Akonta Mining pointed to its ongoing reclamation projects, including the planting of over 18,000 coconut trees, with plans to plant an additional 32,000 trees.
“Although this is estimated to cost the company hugely, we consider it as imperative to ensure a responsible mining project that will protect both the community and the environment,” the company noted.
Akonta Mining concluded its statement by reaffirming its readiness to cooperate with any legitimate investigations while urging authorities and the public to uphold the principles of fairness and justice.
