Civil Society Groups Challenge President Mahama Over Controversial Offshore Gold Mining in Ghana's Fishing Waters

Eleven civil society organisations have formally petitioned President John Dramani Mahama to halt offshore gold exploration activities within Ghana's Inshore Exclusion Zone (IEZ), the protected coastal waters critical to the nation's fishing industry and marine biodiversity.

The petition raises alarm over potential conflicts between mining operations and the livelihoods of thousands of artisanal and small-scale fishers who depend on these waters. The IEZ, as defined under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146), spans the coastal waters from the shoreline to twelve nautical miles offshore—approximately 22 kilometres—an area strategically reserved to protect Ghana's fisheries resources.

The Legal and Economic Conflict

Ghana's fishing sector remains fundamental to food security, employment and foreign exchange earnings, particularly for coastal communities. The Inshore Exclusion Zone was established specifically to safeguard this zone from industrial fishing and, by extension, other extractive industries that could disrupt fish stocks and marine habitats. The CSOs argue that permitting offshore gold mining in these protected waters contradicts the government's own fisheries policy and threatens the sustainability of Ghana's seafood supply.

The petition signals growing tension between Ghana's mining sector—traditionally a major revenue generator—and the nation's fishing industry. As Ghana continues to explore new mineral resources to diversify its economy, critics warn that hasty decisions could sacrifice long-term food security and the welfare of fishing communities for short-term mining revenue.

Why It Matters for Ghana

This dispute reflects a broader challenge facing Ghana: balancing resource extraction with environmental protection and community welfare. The country's over-reliance on mining revenues makes these tensions acute. However, Ghana also faces pressure to maintain fish stocks amid regional overfishing and climate-driven changes to marine ecosystems.

For coastal communities—particularly in regions like the Western Region, Central Region and Greater Accra—fishing remains a primary livelihood. Any disruption could exacerbate poverty and inequality in already marginalised areas. Additionally, Ghana is a signatory to several international agreements on sustainable fisheries and marine conservation, making this decision subject to international scrutiny.

The CSOs' petition also highlights the need for transparent consultation with affected stakeholders. Large-scale development projects in Ghana have historically faced criticism for proceeding without adequate engagement with local communities, leading to social tensions and implementation challenges.

What Happens Next

The petition now rests with President Mahama's administration to review and respond. The government will need to weigh competing interests: the potential revenue and job creation from offshore gold mining against the risks to Ghana's fishing industry, marine ecosystems and coastal communities' food security. A resolution will likely require dialogue among the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, mining companies and civil society to establish clear boundaries and safeguards.

This matter underscores the importance of strategic environmental impact assessments, meaningful community consultation and regulatory frameworks that ensure resource extraction does not compromise Ghana's long-term development goals.