Ghana Gov’t to Deploy Technology to Combat Illegal Mining and Boost National Revenue

The government of Ghana has announced plans to implement technology-driven measures to address the growing challenge of illegal mining, which has been severely affecting national revenue. The move is part of efforts to safeguard the country’s economic interests and ensure the mining sector remains profitable.

In 2023, Ghana’s mining sector contributed a record GHS 11.55 billion in taxes, marking an 81.1% increase from the previous year’s GHS 6.38 billion. This made mining the largest source of domestic tax revenue, but illegal mining activities continue to undermine the full potential of the sector.

During a briefing with news editors in Accra, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, revealed that the government would roll out advanced tracking systems to monitor excavator operations in mining areas. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve compliance and curb illegal mining activities.

Furthermore, the government is exploring the possibility of expanding surveillance technology to cover forest reserves. While acknowledging the high costs of such expansion, the government remains committed to using technology to combat illegal mining and ensure long-term, sustainable benefits for the country’s economy.

source: citi newsroom