GHANA’S ARTISANAL FISHERS REJECT TEMPORARY SUSPENSION, DEMAND FULL CANCELLATION OF 10 OFFSHORE GOLD LICENCES OVER THREATS TO FISH STOCKS AND COASTAL LIVELIHOODS
Artisanal fishing communities and civil society organisations are demanding the complete revocation of 10 offshore gold reconnaissance licences granted to Gold Coast GRC Ghana Limited, arguing that the government’s current suspension does not provide permanent protection for Ghana’s fisheries and coastal communities. The licences reportedly cover approximately 10,000 square kilometres of marine territory from around Half Assini toward Winneba and extend about 33 kilometres offshore. Fishers say they were not adequately consulted and warn that future exploration or mining could damage marine habitats, reduce fish stocks, restrict traditional fishing grounds and affect food security and livelihoods throughout the fisheries value chain. The Minerals Commission has suspended all activities under the licences pending consultations, environmental review and further written ministerial authorisation. Ghana News Agency