Register all excavators in 2 weeks or face seizure-DVLA

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has issued a strict two-week ultimatum to all owners and operators of excavators across Ghana to register their machines by May 28, 2025, as part of renewed efforts to combat illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.

The directive applies to all categories of excavators, including those owned by individuals, dealers, and mining concession holders.

At a press briefing on May 14, DVLA Chief Executive Officer, Julius Neequaye Kotey, announced the initiative, emphasizing that unregistered earth-moving machinery has become a key enabler of illegal mining operations, particularly in forest reserves and near river bodies.

Enforcement to Begin June 1

Mr. Kotey warned that beginning June 1, 2025, joint enforcement teams comprising the police and other state agencies will be deployed nationwide to seize and impound excavators operating without valid DVLA registration.

Legal Backing and Institutional Collaboration

Mr. Kotey cited the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683), which mandates the registration of all motor vehicles and trailers, including heavy-duty and agricultural equipment. He reiterated that operating such machinery without DVLA registration is a legal offence punishable by law.

To ensure effective implementation, the DVLA is collaborating with the Ghana Police Service, the Minerals Commission, the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority.

National Call to Action

“All excavator owners and operators who have not yet registered their machines must visit the nearest DVLA office immediately,” Mr. Kotey stressed. “This is not just a regulatory issue—it is about protecting Ghana’s environment, resources, and the livelihoods of future generations.”

He added that the DVLA will intensify public education and monitoring in the coming weeks to support compliance and ensure transparency throughout the registration process.