Ghana Revises Mining Act to Limit Leases to 20 Years and Boost Community Benefits

The Ghanaian government has approved a revision of the Minerals and Mining Act of 2006, after a two‑decade review and cabinet endorsement. The amended law will be sent to Parliament for approval.

Key changes include capping mining lease terms at a maximum of 20 years, replacing the previous 30‑year limit, and introducing mandatory Community Development Agreements that require mining companies to negotiate development priorities directly with host communities. The revision also creates district mining committees to initiate licensing, adds a new medium‑scale mining category, and abolishes reconnaissance and prospecting licences in favour of five‑year exploration licences. These reforms aim to strengthen mining governance, promote responsible mining, and ensure that mineral wealth delivers lasting benefits to local communities.