Ghana’s Excavator Importation and Legislative Response to Illegal Mining
In 2024, Ghana’s import of GH₵6.2bn excavators supports anti-illegal mining efforts. A military task force has seized 60 excavators for repurposing, and progress has been made in recovering forest reserves. Legislative changes are planned to prohibit mining in these areas and limit the President’s licensing powers.
In 2024, Ghana imported excavators valued at GH₵6.2 billion as part of its efforts to combat illegal mining. This move is the result of recommendations made by a government-formed committee tasked with reviewing the mining licensing system. The objective is to tackle the illegal mining challenges that the country faces.
The Lands Minister reported that, in the course of a two-month crackdown, the military task force confiscated 60 excavators, which are currently held by Regional Ministers. Rather than being destroyed, these excavators will be repurposed for road construction projects, reflecting a strategic approach to asset management.
Additionally, significant progress has been made towards recovering seven of the nine forest reserves previously occupied by illegal miners. To further safeguard these areas, the government plans to amend the legislative instrument L.I. 2462, which will prohibit mining in the reserves and remove the President’s authority to issue mining licenses for these protected areas.
The Ghanaian government is actively addressing the issue of illegal mining through strategic importation and repurposing of excavators, coupled with significant legislative amendments. The seizure of excavators and the recovery of forest reserves indicate proactive measures being implemented to protect natural resources and improve the mining licensing process.
Original Source: www.adomonline.com
