Adu Gyamfi, Ashanti District Secretary of the GNASSM
The Ghana National Association of Small Scale Miners (GNASSM) is urging the government and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to extend the current two-week deadline for excavator registration.
While the association strongly supports the initiative, it fears the short time frame may pose logistical challenges for its members.
Adu Gyamfi, the Ashanti District Secretary of GNASSM, expressed the association’s backing for the DVLA’s efforts to regulate heavy-duty equipment, a move aimed at curbing illegal mining activities and protecting the environment.
“We commend the DVLA for their proactive approach to this critical issue,” stated Mr. Gyamfi.
“However, we believe a two-week window may not be sufficient for all our members to gather the required documentation, especially given ongoing purchase and payment agreements.”
GNASSM is therefore appealing for an extension to ensure its members have adequate time to comply with the new regulations and avoid potential penalties.
Mr. Gyamfi emphasised the importance of compliance and urged all excavator owners, particularly those within GNASSM, to prioritize registration.
“Failure to register within the stipulated timeframe could result in serious consequences,” he warned.
The association believes that a modest extension would give members the opportunity to meet the requirements effectively, thereby contributing to the success of the government’s broader initiative to combat illegal mining.
