The Government of Ghana has stepped up its fight against illegal mining by ordering that all excavators arriving at the Port of Tema be transferred to designated military bases in Tema, Shai Hills, and Accra for safe custody.
The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) explained that the new directive is a national security measure to curb the diversion of imported excavators into unregulated mining operations, which continue to fuel environmental destruction.
Officials say the move will not only decongest the port but also tighten oversight over heavy-duty machinery, preventing their unauthorized use in galamsey activities.
Under the new system, consignees will still complete standard customs clearance processes at the port. However, they will now be required to collect their machines directly from the military installations once all paperwork is cleared.
The cost of transporting the excavators to the bases, along with custody fees, will be borne by the consignees.
Authorities have urged importers and stakeholders to comply fully, stressing that the directive is designed to balance trade facilitation with the urgent need to protect the country’s environment and natural resources.
