The Government of Ghana is set to place restrictions on excavator imports in a renewed effort to combat illegal mining (galamsey), which continues to devastate forests and water bodies across the country.

A Bold Step Against Galamsey

Lands and Natural Resources Minister, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, revealed that the government is considering this tough measure as part of structural reforms to tackle illegal mining.

“We believe the time has come to restrict the import of excavators. It makes no sense that one of the most valuable things we import—costing up to $6.2 billion—is used to destroy our forests, pollute our water bodies, and threaten our future,” he stated.

The Minister noted that unregulated access to heavy-duty machinery—especially excavators—has significantly fueled illegal mining operations, leading to irreversible environmental destruction.

What This Means for Businesses

The government assures legitimate businesses that the restrictions will be strategic and will not hinder construction companies or other lawful industries. Instead, the focus will be on closing loopholes that allow mining-related machinery to fall into the wrong hands.