President John Dramani Mahama has instructed the team tackling illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) to confiscate excavators rather than destroy them.

President Mahama emphasised the need for a structured approach that balances enforcement with sustainable mining practices.

He said this after members of the Christian Council visited him at the Jubilee House on Friday, February 21.

Addressing concerns about the growing impact of galamsey, he acknowledged that approximately 1.8 million Ghanaians are engaged in small-scale mining, making it a significant issue related to employment and displacement.

While recognising that small-scale mining is legal, he stressed that it must be conducted responsibly to prevent environmental destruction.

President Mahama stated that 43 out of Ghana's 280 forest reserves have been affected by illegal mining activities.

He noted that operations to clear these reserves have begun, with a recent intervention in the Tano Nimri Forest Reserve leading to the removal of excavators and other equipment.

Moving forward, he directed enforcement teams to seize such equipment instead of setting them ablaze, a practice that has drawn criticism in the past.

“I've told them not to burn the excavators. They should confiscate them,” President Mahama stated.

He further announced the establishment of a mobile reinforcement team to assist forestry officials in handling illegal miners who attempt to return after being evicted.

Additionally, President Mahama stated that he will engage with small-scale miners to introduce more sustainable practices.

President Mahama reiterated his commitment to finding balanced solutions that ensure both the preservation of natural resources and the livelihoods of those involved in small-scale mining.