Ghana’s Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced an immediate ban on the fabrication, importation, sale, and use of “Changfan” machines, widely linked to environmental destruction caused by illegal mining activities.

In a statement, the EPA said the locally assembled dredging machines have been used extensively in small-scale river mining—known in Ghana as galamsey—leading to severe pollution of water bodies, siltation of riverbeds, and loss of aquatic life.

The Authority said the manufacture and sale of the machines have been carried out without the necessary environmental permits, in violation of the Environmental Protection Act, 2025 (Act 1124) and the Environmental Protection (Environmental Assessment) Regulations, 2025 (L.I. 2504).

“While the fabrication and sale of these machines have provided income for some individuals, their use in river mining has had devastating effects on the environment,” the statement said.

Under the new directive, the fabrication, importation, and use of Changfan machines without an EPA permit are strictly prohibited. The EPA warned that workshops found producing or selling the equipment will be shut down and all machines seized and dismantled.

It also ordered all individuals and businesses involved in the trade or distribution of the machines to cease operations immediately.

The EPA said enforcement exercises, carried out with support from security agencies, would begin soon to ensure compliance through monitoring, confiscation, and prosecution where necessary.

The Authority reminded miners that operating within water bodies remains illegal under Ghana’s environmental and mining laws.

Members of the public seeking more information have been asked to contact the EPA via email at client.relations@epa.gov.gh, by phone at 0506694760 / 0507227726, or visit www.epa.gov.gh.

Source:TheDotNews