Government Bans Excavator Imports Without Permit in Crackdown on Illegal Mining
The Government has imposed an immediate ban on the importation of excavators without prior authorisation, as part of a broader crackdown on illegal mining and its detrimental impact on water bodies across the country.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Transport, the new directive dubbed “No Permit, No Excavator”, is now fully in effect. The directive requires all dealers and importers of excavators to secure a permit from the Ministry prior to bringing the equipment into the country.
“All Shipping Lines should desist from transporting excavators into the country without the required permit. Dealers and Importers of excavators are to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Transport prior to importation,” the statement read.
The move forms part of Ghana’s renewed efforts to rein in the proliferation of illegal mining popularly referred to as “galamsey”, which has contributed to extensive environmental degradation, particularly the pollution of major water bodies and forest reserves.
The policy is expected to tighten controls at Ghana’s ports and logistics networks, compelling freight operators and equipment dealers to undergo more stringent regulatory checks.
Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the Minister for Transport, who signed the directive, warned that all stakeholders including the general public must adhere strictly to the new directive.
