Fighting Galamsey: Lands Minister Launches Blue Water Guards Training
Government launches Blue Water Initiative to safeguard rivers, with plans to deploy 2,000 guards nationwide in the fight against illegal mining.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has launched the government’s flagship Blue Water Initiative to tackle the crisis of water pollution caused by illegal mining.
As part of the initiative, the minister announced the commencement of a four-day intensive training program for the first batch of 460 Blue Water Guards, who will provide round-the-clock protection for the country’s water bodies.
He also revealed plans to expand the program, training and deploying 2,000 guards nationwide in the coming months.
“The call for urgent action has never been more pressing. This is a crisis of our lifetime,” he stated. “At the heart of this initiative are the Blue Water Guards, who will serve as the frontline defenders of our rivers, ensuring they remain a source of life and livelihood for future generations.”
The Deputy CEO of the Minerals Commission, Emmanuel Anyimah, assured that the commission would provide regulatory support, technical guidance, and oversight to equip the guards for their mission.
Meanwhile, the Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, under whose supervision the guards are being trained, expressed enthusiasm about the Ghana Navy’s involvement in the initiative, emphasizing their commitment to tackling water pollution.
With illegal mining devastating Ghana’s water resources, the Blue Water Guards represent a bold step in the fight against galamsey, safeguarding the nation’s most precious natural assets.
