President John Mahama has announced that excavators can no longer be imported into Ghana without a government-issued permit. The move forms part of sweeping new measures to clamp down on “galamsey” activities that have devastated Ghana’s rivers, forests, and farmlands.
Excavator Imports Now Require Government Authorization
Under the new directive, individuals and companies intending to import excavators must first obtain clearance from the government. The objective is to control the influx of heavy machinery frequently used by illegal miners in unregulated and environmentally harmful operations across the country.
President Mahama explained that the permit system is intended to strengthen oversight and accountability in the mining sector. “No one can bring excavators into this country again unless you get a permit from the government,” he stated.
Nationwide Tracking System for Excavators
To complement the permit initiative, the government has launched a nationwide excavator tracking program. Each machine in the country will be tagged and monitored using digital technology to ensure it is used only for approved purposes. The Minerals Commission, in collaboration with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), will spearhead the registration and monitoring processes.
This effort aims to end the anonymity and misuse of excavators in galamsey operations, especially in forest reserves and along riverbanks.
Combating Environmental Destruction
Illegal mining has posed one of the greatest threats to Ghana’s environment in recent years, with water bodies like the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin rivers becoming heavily polluted. The unregulated activities have also led to deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and displacement of local communities.
President Mahama emphasized that these environmental consequences are not inevitable: “The destruction caused by galamsey is a result of poor governance and lack of enforcement, not mining itself. We are changing that.”
Stakeholder Collaboration Key to Success
The government’s new mining reforms are being implemented in partnership with key stakeholders, including traditional authorities, local governments, and community watchdog groups. Education campaigns and awareness programs will also accompany the enforcement of the new permit and tracking systems to ensure compliance and citizen participation.
These new policies underscore the administration’s commitment to restoring Ghana’s degraded lands and protecting natural resources for future generations.
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