Government to track importation of Excavators -President Mahama 

President Mahama's Announcement on Excavators and Mining Regulations

President John Dramani Mahama announced new measures for tracking excavators. This will help determine if they are used for illegal mining. He noted that Ghana has more excavators than the rest of Africa combined.

"We will change the permitting regime," he said. "You need a permit to import or ship an excavator." He emphasized that sustainable mining must also be responsible.

Ghana is Africa’s largest gold producer with diverse mineral resources. The President spoke at the 2025 Global Mining Summit, hosted by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene. The summit focuses on sustainable mining and local growth.

The event aims to promote responsible practices in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM). It also seeks policy reforms and international collaboration in Ghana's ASM sector.

Mahama highlighted that environmental degradation is not inevitable from mining activities. Instead, it results from poor governance and enforcement of regulations.

The government is strengthening frameworks for environmental, social, and governance issues in mining. This includes banning toxic chemicals like mercury in gold processing. They will also mandate site rehabilitation for small- and medium-scale miners.

He stated that every ounce of gold mined should leave a positive impact on the environment. The world is transitioning away from fossil fuels toward clean energy sources.

This shift increases demand for critical minerals such as lithium and nickel. "Ghana is ready to play a central role," he said, outlining plans to develop these resources responsibly.

The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) aims to reform the gold sector for maximum benefits to Ghanaians. Since its inception, it has improved returns from gold exports significantly.

From January to April, Ghana earned $2.7 billion through PMMC/Goldbod exports. This figure is expected to rise throughout the year as new systems are implemented.

The Goldbod plans to introduce a track-and-trace system for environmentally sustainable gold exports. They will also train artisanal miners in responsible practices.

Additionally, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources will launch a project with Gold Board support to reclaim 10,000 hectares of mined land.

Mahama stressed that the future of mining extends beyond national borders; it is continental. The African Continental Free Trade Area offers opportunities for regional supply chains and investment flows.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II pointed out that corruption hampers efforts against illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana.