All 900 Seized Galamsey Pumps to Be Distributed to Farmers by Friday - Agric Minister

The Minister of Food and Agriculture has announced that all 900 irrigation pumps seized from illegal mining (galamsey) sites will be fully redistributed to farmers across the country by Friday. The move forms part of government’s strategy to convert equipment recovered from mining operations into productive agricultural use.

According to the Minister, the pumps—originally used by illegal miners to divert and wash soil—are being repurposed to support irrigation schemes, vegetable farming, and dry-season production. The ministry says the equipment will be allocated to smallholder farmers, farmer groups, and community irrigation projects.

Officials believe the pumps will help farmers expand cultivation during the dry season, improve food supply, and reduce pressure on rain-fed agriculture.

Security operations across several regions have led to the confiscation of hundreds of water pumps used in illegal mining activities. Instead of leaving the equipment unused, the Ministry of Agriculture says converting them into farming tools is a practical way to support food production while reinforcing anti-galamsey interventions.

The minister added that the reallocation aligns with government’s goal of increasing local food output, stabilizing prices, and promoting sustainable land use.

Regional agricultural directorates have already begun distributing the first batch of pumps, with priority given to farmers operating in areas with limited water access. Farmer cooperatives involved in vegetable farming and rice cultivation are also expected to benefit.

The Ministry is tracking distribution to ensure transparency and prevent the pumps from returning to illegal mining sites.

Agricultural experts say the repurposed pumps could significantly increase yields, especially for farmers engaged in onions, tomatoes, pepper, and rice production. The initiative is also expected to reduce reliance on imported vegetables during the dry season.