Govt to relocate all impounded excavators parked at Tema port to military installations
The government in collaboration with relevant security and regulatory agencies has started an exercise to relocate all the seized excavators from the Tema port enclave to selected military installations in Tema, Accra and the Shai Hills.
The move is aimed at easing congestion at the Tema Port and ensuring security.
The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) in a press statement issued on Wednesday [Sept 10, 2025] explained that the decision to evacuate the earth-moving machines impounded at Tema Port forms part of national efforts to regulate the importation of such equipment.
It explained they are being relocated to military camps nationwide to help ease congestion and ensure security.
The statement explained they will still be in custody until they are duly cleared by their respective owners.
GPHA explained that the exercise would also facilitate the decongestion of the port to create additional capacity.
It reminded all consignees and licensed agents that in executing the exercise, the established customs clearance procedures at the port would remain in force, adding that upon completion of clearance formalities, consignees would be directed to take delivery of their equipment from the designated military installations.
The statement further indicated that the cost of transporting the excavators to military installations, together with custody charges would be borne by the consignees.
Background
In June 2025, the government announced a ban on the importation of excavators as part of intensified measures to combat illegal mining and safeguard the nation’s water bodies.
The directive, issued by the Ministry of Transport, introduced a strict "No Permit, No Excavator" policy to regulate the entry of such machinery into Ghana.
The Ministry asked all shipping lines to cease transporting excavators into Ghana without the requisite permit.
Additionally, dealers and importers are now required to obtain prior approval from the Ministry of Transport before bringing excavators into Ghana.
Writer's email benjamin.glover@graphic.com.gh
