The closure order was officially communicated in an EPA directive dated September 14, 2026, following exhaustive investigations triggered by multiple complaints from local community members.

EPA investigators established that Empire Cement's factory was generating sustained visible particulate and gaseous emissions into the atmosphere, creating a severe environmental nuisance and threatening ambient air quality, surrounding land uses, and long-term public health. Notably, this is not the first time the company’s activities have sparked concern, as a court previously placed an injunction on Empire Cement's operations due to potential health hazards posed to residents.

A primary catalyst for the EPA's shutdown directive was Empire Cement's systematic failure to adhere to statutory environmental obligations and permit guidelines. The regulatory authority revealed that the company had consistently failed to submit its required quarterly environmental monitoring returns.

Furthermore, Empire Cement neglected to install mandated, state-of-the-art air pollution control systems across its emission discharge units—a mandatory requirement designed to satisfy the Ghana Standard for Environment and Health Protection Requirements for Ambient Air Quality and Point Source/Stack Emissions (GS 1236:2019). EPA inspectors also noted that existing dust plants and auxiliary equipment were improperly maintained, causing uncontrolled particulate waste to spew directly into the surrounding environment.

As a result of these persistent violations, the EPA cited Empire Cement Ghana Ltd for direct breaches of sections 5.1(a), 5.1(h)(i), 5.1(h)(iv), and 9.1 of the Schedule to Environmental Permit No. EPA/MID/EMP/CU 859/25/1013/01/0042947.

In its official shutdown letter, the EPA stated: “Based on the above, the Authority finds Empire Cement Ghana Ltd in breach of sections 5.1(a), 5.1(h)(i), 5.1(h)(iv) and 9.1 of the Schedule to Environmental Permit No. EPA/MID/EMP/CU 859/25/1013/01/0042947 and hereby directs you to shut down the factory operations with immediate effect”.

Before any consideration of reopening, Empire Cement must fulfill strict regulatory instructions. The EPA has mandated that the company submit all outstanding quarterly monitoring returns by October 1, 2026, fully install and repair state-of-the-art air pollution control systems, and actively engage affected local communities to address operational impacts and mitigation strategies.

The factory will remain closed until full compliance with GS 1236:2019 standards is verified by EPA inspectors and formal written permission is granted, with the authority warning that further non-compliance will attract severe administrative penalties and legal sanctions under Ghanaian environmental laws.

The firm action taken against Empire Cement sends a strong message to industrial players across Ghana that economic activity cannot be prioritized over environmental protection and public health. As manufacturing expands across the country, strict regulatory oversight ensures that industrial growth proceeds responsibly and safely.

#EPA shuts down Empire Cement