The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi-Buah, has revealed that 1,200 excavators have been impounded at the Tema Port.
According to him, the move forms part of Ghana’s intensified efforts to regulate the import and use of heavy-duty equipment in the fight against illegal mining activities.
The Ellembelle MP announced this when he took his turn at the Government Accountability Series at the Jubilee House on Wednesday, July 23.
“In collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Finance (GRA-Customs Division), and the Ports and Harbours Authority, we have initiated a proactive tracking of all imports of excavators and earth-moving equipment from the point of entry. So far, 1,200 excavators have been impounded pending validation before clearance at the Tema Port,” he stated.
The Minister revealed that the impounded machines are currently undergoing validation before clearance.
He explained that the operation is a result of a joint effort between the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Finance (through the GRA-Customs Division), and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority.
To enhance transparency and operational oversight, the Minister announced the rollout of a centralized digital tracking system, known as the Ghana Mine Repository and Tracking Software.
Developed by the Minerals Commission, the system is already in an advanced phase and is being used to monitor mining machinery in real time.
“The Ghana Mine Repository and Tracking Software has been deployed by the Minerals Commission and is at an advanced stage to support this initiative
“The platform will serve as the single point of integration for all agencies, including Customs, DVLA, the Ministry of Transport, the Minerals Commission, National Security, and the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat,” he said.
Mr. Kofi-Buah disclosed that a pilot program is already underway, tracking over 191 excavators from a dedicated control room at the Minerals Commission.
The initiative is backed by the Minerals and Mining (Mineral Operations Tracking of Earth Moving and Mining Equipment) Regulations, 2020 (L.I. 2404), which mandates the registration and monitoring of mining equipment used across the country.
He also highlighted the crucial role of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), describing it as the central body coordinating Ghana’s legal, environmental, and security efforts in the ongoing campaign against illegal mining.
“This system will ensure transparency, prevent duplication, and provide authorised institutions with real-time access to permit history, equipment location, and operational compliance,” he added.
The Government Accountability Series serves as a platform for ministers to report on sectoral progress and policy implementation in line with the government’s commitment to transparency and responsible governance.
Source: Adomonline.com
