The Minerals Commission has ordered Goldcoast GRC Ghana Limited to halt all activity being carried out under its reconnaissance licences in Ghana’s territorial waters, citing environmental, ecological and consultation concerns.
The directive was issued in a letter dated October 5, 2026, and signed by the Commission’s Chief Executive Officer, Isaac Tandoh.
It follows objections from key stakeholders over the granting of the mineral rights and the nature of the work proposed under the licences.
According to the Commission, the main concerns involve the possible environmental and ecological consequences of the proposed operations, as well as whether adequate consultations have taken place with individuals and groups who could be affected.
“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 awarded the reconnaissance licences on February 9, 2026.
The Commission said it had previously made clear that the company needed to secure all required authorisations and permits from relevant state institutions before beginning any exploration work.
It warned that failure to properly address the concerns could lead to regulatory difficulties for the proposed operations and make it impossible for the company to obtain the necessary social licence to operate.
The letter also referred to correspondence dated 4th February 2026, which communicated ministerial approval of the Commission’s recommendation to grant the licences.
“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 suspension follows a direction from the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources. It will remain in place until the Minerals Commission has completed the necessary consultations and issued written ministerial authorisation for the work to resume.
While the suspension is in force, Goldcoast GRC must cooperate fully with the Minerals Commission, relevant state institutions and all affected stakeholders.
The Commission’s action comes as regulatory, environmental, ecological and social issues surrounding the proposed activities are reviewed.