In a bid to combat the growing menace of illegal mining, also known as “galamsey,” the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has announced a new policy requiring the mandatory registration of all excavators entering Ghana’s ports. Apexnewsgh reports
This move, set to take effect on May 1, 2025, aims to track and monitor the ownership and usage of these heavy machines, often used in unauthorized mining operations.
According to Julius Neequaye Kotey, Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, the registration policy will enhance accountability and traceability of excavators, ensuring their use aligns with legal and environmentally sustainable practices. By creating a comprehensive database of excavators entering the country, authorities hope to curb the diversion of these machines to illegal mining sites, which has contributed to environmental degradation and undermined lawful mining operations.
The decision comes on the heels of concerns raised over the massive importation of excavators, valued at approximately GH¢6.2 billion in 2024 alone, making them the third-largest import item in the country. The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has emphasized the need for regulatory measures to monitor excavator usage effectively.
The government has pledged to work closely with agencies like the DVLA and the Ministry of Transport to implement systems that track excavator usage. As the implementation date approaches, stakeholders, including importers and operators of heavy machinery, are urged to comply with the new registration requirements. Failure to register excavators may result in penalties or the impounding of equipment, underscoring the government’s commitment to enforcing the new policy.
The mandatory registration of excavators is part of a broader strategy to curb illegal mining and promote sustainable resource management in Ghana. By regulating the use of heavy machinery, the government aims to protect the environment, ensure lawful mining operations, and promote responsible resource utilization.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
