In 2024, Ghana imported GH₵6.2 billion worth of excavators as part of efforts to combat illegal mining. The military task force has seized 60 excavators, which will be repurposed for road construction. The government is also recovering illegal mining sites in forest reserves and plans to amend legislation to prevent further exploitation.
In 2024, Ghana imported excavators amounting to GH₵6.2 billion, according to the Lands Minister. This action is part of a broader strategy addressing the illegal mining issue, stemming from recommendations made by a governmental working committee aimed at revising the mining licensing system. The Minister noted that the military task force had confiscated 60 excavators in the last two months, which are now held by Regional Ministers for road construction rather than destruction.
Moreover, the government has successfully reclaimed seven of the nine forest reserves previously exploited by illegal miners. Plans are being developed to amend legislative instrument L.I 2462 to enforce a ban on mining activities within these reserves. This legislative change is intended to eliminate the President’s ability to issue mining licenses for areas designated as forest reserves, thereby taking a firmer stance on protecting these lands from illegal activities.
In summary, Ghana’s government is actively combating illegal mining by importing excavators for legitimate purposes, recovering forest reserves, and amending legislation to safeguard environmental resources. The repurposing of confiscated excavators for road construction reflects a strategic use of resources, while legislative changes aim to enhance protective measures for forest reserves.
Original Source: www.adomonline.com
