Government to Track Importation of Excavators: President Mahama

Accra: President Mahama has announced a significant policy shift aimed at regulating the importation of excavators in Ghana. The new initiative will require permits before excavators can be imported, a move intended to curb their use in illegal mining activities. This decision comes as Ghana boasts more excavators than any other African country, which has raised concerns over their potential misuse in illegal mining operations.According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama revealed these plans during his address at the opening of the 2025 Global Mining Summit, also known as the Mining in Motion Summit. The summit, initiated by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, aims to highlight sustainable practices within Ghana's Artisanal and Small-scale Mining (ASM) sector. The President emphasized that mining should be both sustainable and responsible, and the permitting regime change is a step towards achieving this goal.The President outlined the government's broader strategy to strengthen environmental, socia l, and governance frameworks within the mining sector. This includes banning toxic chemicals such as mercury in gold processing, mandating site rehabilitation, enforcing community development agreements, and promoting renewable energy use. He stressed that responsible policy and regulation would ensure that Ghana's mineral wealth contributes positively to the environment.President Mahama also addressed the global transition towards clean energy, noting the increasing demand for critical minerals like lithium and graphite. He stated that Ghana is positioning itself to play a central role in this new global order by establishing policies and investment frameworks to explore and develop these mineral reserves. The President highlighted the importance of Ghana's mineral wealth as a strategic geopolitical resource.The Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) plays a crucial role in the administration's strategy to reform the gold mining sector. The President noted that the GoldBod has already made significant strides in san itizing the gold sector and ensuring maximum returns from gold exports. Between January and April, Ghana's gold exports generated $2.7 billion, a figure expected to increase throughout the year. The GoldBod is also working on a track and trace system to ensure that gold exports are environmentally sustainable.Furthermore, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, in collaboration with the Gold Board and the private sector, is preparing to launch an ambitious project aimed at reclaiming 10,000 hectares of mined-out lands. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to sustainable land use and environmental restoration.In his remarks, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II pointed out that corruption and political miscalculations have historically undermined efforts to combat illegal mining, known locally as "galamsey." The summit's discussions seek to address these challenges and promote a more responsible and sustainable mining sector in Ghana.