The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, has revealed that excavators imported into Ghana are valued at a staggering GH¢6.2 billion, making them one of the top three highest imports in the country.

Speaking on JoyNews' Newsfile on Saturday, March 22, Mr Kofi Buah addressed the pressing need for greater regulation and oversight of excavator usage, especially within the mining and construction sectors.

“We must ensure that every excavator entering the country is properly tracked, has a legitimate purpose, and that we can pinpoint its exact location 24 hours a day,” he emphasised.

This new initiative according to the Minister, aims to curb illegal mining operations and ensure that excavators are being used for legitimate, lawful purposes.

Read also: Lands Minister revokes all small-scale mining licences issued after December 7, 2024

He further explained that his ministry is working closely with the Minerals Commission to monitor and manage excavators more effectively, alongside other government agencies such as the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) and the Ministry of Transport.

"Starting from the port, we are working with DVLA, and others. I have had the first discussion with the minister of transport because we believe that other agencies must be part of this whole exercise," Mr Kofi Buah explained.

He assured that proposals are currently under review to develop an effective tracking system that will include digital monitoring mechanisms and cooperation between agencies.

The goal, according to the Minister, is to ensure transparency and accountability at every stage of the excavator’s importation, registration, and use.

"We must make sure that any excavator imported in the country is tracked, has a purpose, and we know exactly where they are 24 hours a day," he noted.