In 2024, Ghana imported GH₵6.2 billion of excavators as part of efforts to reform mining practices. The military seized 60 machines recently, which will be repurposed for road construction. Additionally, the government is working on recovering forest reserves from illegal miners and amending laws to strengthen protections against mining in those areas.
In 2024, Ghana imported GH₵6.2 billion worth of excavators, according to the Lands Minister. This move is part of a broader initiative stemming from recommendations made by a government-formed working committee focusing on reforming the mining licensing system and combatting illegal mining activities.
The Minister revealed that the military task force has seized 60 excavators in the last two months. These excavators are currently under the control of Regional Ministers and will not be destroyed but repurposed for road construction projects instead.
Progress has been made in reclaiming seven out of nine forest reserves that were previously occupied by illegal miners. The government plans to amend Legislative Instrument L.I 2462 to permanently ban mining in these ecological areas, while also revoking the President’s authority to issue mining licenses for forest reserves.
The government’s efforts to combat illegal mining in Ghana include significant measures such as expansive excavator imports and seizure. Repurposing seized equipment for public infrastructure and amending laws to protect forest reserves demonstrate a commitment to both environmental preservation and effective resource management. These initiatives aim to reform the mining sector and bolster legal mining practices.
Original Source: www.adomonline.com
