Excavator operators working in Ghana's small-scale mining sector have undergone training aimed at promoting safe and environmentally sustainable mining practices.

The training, which targeted operators mainly from the Ashanti and Western Regions, focused on helping participants understand soil layers and adopt responsible excavation techniques.

Excavators have become essential tools in small-scale gold mining operations, but limited operator training has often resulted in inaccurate digging, over-excavation, and significant land degradation, as well as increased carbon emissions.

To address these issues, the technical training was organised by construction equipment manufacturer Kobelco and its partner, PL International, through Warnabaid Ventures.

Public Relations Officer for Warnabaid Ventures, Ernest Dabo, explained the purpose of the collaboration: “We decided to collaborate with Kobelco who have machinery which are fuel efficient and of high quality. If we are able to promote it and make sure that we teach operators how to excavate properly, the miners will rake in more and not go to the extent of destroying more natural resources.”

Country Manager for PL International Holdings Gold Coast Limited, Pravin Garle, emphasized the need for proper operational knowledge. “Everybody has a different way of operating machines. They end up learning things from others which may not be the right practice,” he said. “It is important for them to know the right practices and how they can enhance the performance of the machines.”

While mining remains a vital part of Ghana’s economy, irresponsible practices continue to pose serious environmental threats. The President of the Concerned Small Scale Mining Association, Michael Kwadwo Peprah, stressed the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding the environment.

“We all have to come together to promote sustainable operations. We have to ensure we mine with the protection of the environment in mind, so initiative like this one has to be promoted,” he stated.

The government has already stepped up efforts to clamp down on illegal mining in a broader attempt to mitigate the environmental damage caused by unregulated activities in the sector.