The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has issued a two-week ultimatum to all excavator owners and operators across Ghana to register their machines or face arrest and possible confiscation.
The directive, announced today, forms part of a broader government initiative to combat illegal mining (galamsey) and environmental degradation, particularly through the use of unregistered heavy equipment.
Speaking at a press briefing on measures taken by the Authority in the fight against illegal mining, Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, Mr. Julius Neequaye Kotey, noted that a recent audit of mining sites revealed a high number of unregistered excavators being used in operations deemed illegal.
He stressed that all mechanically propelled equipment, including farm machinery and excavators, are required by law to be registered.
“If you own an excavator, you are mandated by law to register it at any of our 34 DVLA offices nationwide. After May 31st, the police and a task force will begin a nationwide clampdown,” he said.
Mr. Kotey also highlighted that imported excavators must be cleared by the Ministry of Transport before registration.
He noted that the new regulations will enforce the registration of such equipment at the port of entry, starting with the Tema Port. Collaborations are underway with the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority and the Minerals Commission, the latter of which is responsible for tracking heavy-moving equipment under L.I. 2404 (2020).
According to Mr. Kotey, the DVLA estimates that over 3,500 excavators are currently in the country, many of which lack proper documentation or updated ownership records.
“This singular activity undermines our Sustainable Development Goals—from clean water to safe cities. The era of unregulated excavation is over,” he declared.
The new enforcement plan will involve on-site inspections, monitoring of equipment dealers, and a two-pronged strategy targeting both existing machinery and new imports.
Story by Osman Issah Abadoo
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