Awuni: GoldCoast GRC’s offshore exploration permit under strict regulatory scrutiny

The Minerals Commission has reaffirmed that no operating permit will be issued for GoldCoast GRC Ghana Limited’s proposed offshore mineral reconnaissance activities until the company satisfies Ghana’s environmental and regulatory requirements.

Speaking at an Environmental Protection Authority  (EPA) stakeholder engagement in Accra, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Minerals Commission, Victoria Awuni, said the company’s application for environmental permits is undergoing a comprehensive assessment under Ghana’s Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) framework.

She stressed that while mineral exploration is critical to the growth of Ghana’s mining sector, it must not come at the expense of the country’s marine ecosystems or the livelihoods of coastal communities.

According to Ms. Awuni, the proposed activities involve non-invasive offshore reconnaissance, including bathymetric mapping, hydrographic surveys, remote sensing and geophysical surveys designed to minimise disturbance to seabed habitats, marine life and fisheries.

She said regulators are assessing the potential impact of the proposed activities on marine biodiversity, water quality, seabed habitats, migratory species, coastal processes and fishing communities before any environmental approvals are considered.

“The Minerals Commission will continue to collaborate with the EPA to ensure GoldCoast GRC Ghana Ltd. meets the highest regulatory standards before any operating permit is issued,” she said.

Ms. Awuni called for a transparent, science-based and participatory assessment process, emphasizing that responsible mineral development must balance economic opportunities with the protection of Ghana’s coastal and marine environment.