Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe has denied reports that hundreds of excavators seen at Tema Port are being cleared for use, amid public concern over their potential link to illegal mining.
Speaking to the media, he debunked the report claiming, “we’re not clearing; we’re only decongesting the port”.
He explained that the equipment is being relocated to holding areas like Michel Camp to free up space while investigations continue.
A committee has been formed to assess the purpose of the excavators’ arrival and ensure all necessary approvals from the Minerals Commission and DVLA are in place before any clearance.
The minister emphasized that the government’s “no permit, no import” policy remains in force to prevent unauthorized machinery from entering the country.
This comes as trade data shows Ghana imported $205 million worth of excavators in 2023, more than double Nigeria’s $94 million making it the top importer in West Africa.
