Government has introduced stricter visa procedures for Chinese nationals to combat illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa announced that Ghana’s embassy in Beijing and consulate in Guangzhou will no longer process group visa applications.
According to him, each applicant must now appear in person for an interview before a visa is granted.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, September 15, he said, “We no longer process group visa applications. Everybody must show up for an interview, no matter if you claim you are coming for a conference or an excursion. There is a strict directive that no more group processing of visas,” Mr. Ablakwa said.
The policy follows the Minister’s recent diplomatic mission to China, where he engaged officials in provinces linked to frequent illegal mining activity in Ghana.
He warned that while Ghana welcomes genuine investment, Chinese nationals engaging in galamsey will not be tolerated.
“I did not mince words at all. I really stated President Mahama’s position that this cannot continue. We welcome good investors to come partner with us and transform our economy, but we will not accept you sending your nationals here to engage in galamsey,” he stressed .
