The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced an immediate ban on the fabrication, importation, and use of Chanfan machines without an official permit, citing their destructive impact on Ghana’s environment and water bodies.

In a directive issued on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, the Authority said the machines — widely used in illegal small-scale mining operations — have contributed to the pollution of rivers, siltation of riverbeds, and loss of aquatic biodiversity.

The EPA noted that while the production and sale of Chanfan machines had become a source of livelihood for some artisans, the environmental cost was too high to ignore.

“The fabrication of Chanfan machines is being undertaken without the required environmental authorization from the EPA, contrary to Act 1124 and the Environmental Protection (Environmental Assessment) Regulations, 2025 (L.I. 2504),” the statement said.

The Authority further directed that all workshops, shops, and individuals involved in the production, sale, or distribution of these machines cease operations immediately. It warned that any entity found flouting the directive will have its equipment seized, dismantled, and its facilities shut down.

“Any workshops or shops found producing or selling these machines will be shut down, and all existing equipment will be seized and dismantled,” the statement emphasized.

Additionally, the EPA issued a final warning to illegal miners operating within river bodies, urging them to stop immediately or face arrest and prosecution.

The Authority said it would work with security agencies to enforce the directive through monitoring, seizure, and legal action where necessary.

The EPA’s move comes amid renewed national efforts to curb illegal mining (galamsey), which continues to threaten Ghana’s water resources and ecosystems despite multiple government interventions.

According to the EPA, the ban is in line with sections 3(2)(b) and 35 of the Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124), which empower the Authority to restrict or prohibit activities posing serious risks to the environment and public health.

The Authority reiterated its commitment to protecting Ghana’s natural environment and ensuring that industrial and mining operations comply with national environmental standards.