The Minerals Commission has directed Goldcoast GRC Ghana Limited to immediately suspend all activities being undertaken under its reconnaissance licences within Ghana’s territorial waters.
The directive, contained in a letter dated October 5, 2026 and signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Isaac Tandoh, follows concerns and objections raised by key stakeholders regarding the grant of the mineral rights and the activities proposed under the licences.
The Commission said the concerns relate primarily to the potential environmental and ecological impacts of the proposed activities, as well as the adequacy of consultations with persons and groups who may be affected by the company’s operations.
“It is therefore necessary to pause all activities to allow the relevant regulatory, environmental, ecological and social issues to be fully considered and addressed through appropriate stakeholder engagement,” the Commission stated.
Goldcoast GRC was granted the reconnaissance licences on February 9, 2026.
The Commission said it had earlier informed the company that it was required to obtain all necessary authorisations and permits from relevant state institutions before commencing exploration activities.
According to the Commission, failure to adequately address the concerns could expose the proposed operations to regulatory challenges and prevent the company from securing the necessary social licence to operate.
“As stated in our letter dated 4th February 2026, which communicated the ministerial approval of the Commission’s recommendation to grant the licences, the Company must obtain all required authorisations and permits from the relevant State institutions before commencing any exploration activities,” the letter said.
The Commission said the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources has consequently directed the immediate suspension of all activities under the licences until the Commission completes the necessary consultations and issues written ministerial authorisation for the activities to resume.
During the suspension, Goldcoast GRC is required to cooperate fully with the Minerals Commission, relevant state institutions and all affected stakeholders.
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