Gov’t to introduce permit system for excavator imports to tackle galamsey

The government is launching a new permit system for excavators. This aims to reduce illegal mining in Ghana. Illegal mining has harmed the environment significantly.

President John Dramani Mahama announced this at the Global Mining Summit. The event took place in Kumasi on June 2. He noted that Ghana has more excavators than all of Africa combined. This is a major factor in the galamsey crisis.

“Controlling excavator use is vital for cleaning up mining,” he said. Seven out of nine protected forest reserves have been cleared of illegal miners.

Under the new policy, importers must get official clearance before bringing in excavators. This will help with better monitoring and enforcement.

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, called for stronger leadership. He emphasized the need for accountability to fight corruption and regulatory failures. These issues hinder anti-galamsey efforts.

Additionally, a legislative instrument has been submitted to Parliament. This aims to remove presidential discretion in approving mining in forest reserves. It’s another step toward protecting Ghana’s green spaces.