President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to introduce a permit system to regulate the importation of excavators as part of broader efforts to tackle illegal mining in Ghana.
Speaking at the Mining in Motion Conference, President Mahama outlined several measures his administration would implement to sanitize the mining sector and protect the environment.
He noted that Ghana currently has more excavators than any other African country, a situation he described as troubling given the role these machines play in illegal mining activities.
The proposed permit system, he explained, will help control who can import and operate excavators, thereby curbing their misuse in unauthorized mining operations.
Adding his voice to the discussion, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, described the illegal mining crisis as deeply concerning. He cited regulatory lapses, political misjudgments, and corruption as major obstacles undermining the fight against galamsey.
Otumfuo emphasized the need for stronger leadership and accountability to bring lasting solutions to the issue.
ALSO READ: