Ghana Imports GH₵6.2bn Excavators in 2024 Amid Illegal Mining Crackdown

In 2024, Ghana imported GH₵6.2 billion worth of excavators as part of a strategy to combat illegal mining. The military task force has seized 60 excavators, now held by Regional Ministers for road construction. The government has reclaimed seven forest reserves from illegal miners and plans to amend laws governing mining licenses in these areas.

In 2024, the Ghanaian government imported excavators valued at GH₵6.2 billion, a measure prompted by a review of the mining licensing system aimed at combating illegal mining activities. This initiative stems from recommendations by a working committee tasked with addressing the mining sector’s challenges.

As part of a wider effort to eliminate illegal mining, Lands Minister has announced the seizure of 60 excavators by the military task force over the last two months. These seized excavators are now in the custody of Regional Ministers and will be repurposed for road construction instead of being destroyed.

Moreover, the government has made strides in recovering forest reserves that were previously overrun by illegal miners, successfully reclaiming seven out of nine targeted areas. To strengthen these efforts, plans are being developed to amend legislative instrument L.I 2462, which would prohibit mining in forest reserves and limit the President’s authority to approve mining licenses in these protected areas.

The Ghanaian government’s importation of excavators and the strategic seizure of illegal mining equipment underscore its commitment to regulating the mining sector effectively. By repurposing seized equipment and amending relevant legislation, the government aims to curb illegal mining activities and protect forest reserves, demonstrating progress in addressing environmental and regulatory challenges.

Original Source: www.adomonline.com