The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has announced a mandatory registration regime for excavators and other heavy mining equipment entering Ghana, as part of intensified efforts to combat illegal mining.

For years, excavators used in galamsey operations have operated under “ghost” identities, with no ownership details captured in DVLA’s records. This loophole has allowed illegal miners to abandon equipment during security raids, making it difficult for authorities to trace their owners.

Speaking at the DVLA’s 2025 mid-year review conference in Kumasi, Deputy Chief Executive Foster Kwasi Asante said the new policy will ensure that every excavator entering the country through the ports is properly documented.

He explained that the initiative, being implemented in collaboration with the Minerals Commission and port authorities, will also cover other mining equipment and certain categories of farm machinery.

Mr. Asante further revealed that DVLA will integrate Minerals Commission tax records with its database and deploy geofencing technology to monitor excavators in real time.

“This is DVLA’s contribution to President Mahama’s directive to fight galamsey and safeguard our environment,” he emphasised.