"Uphold integrity, professionalism as frontline protectors of Ghana’s water resources" – Lands Minister charges Blue Water guards

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has urged newly commissioned recruits under the Blue Water Guards initiative to uphold integrity and professionalism as they take up frontline roles in protecting Ghana’s water bodies from the menace of illegal mining.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of 453 recruits at the Naval Operating Base in Ezinlibo, Jomoro Municipality, Western Region, the Minister emphasized the critical nature of their mission.

“Your role is critical,” Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah stated.

"You are the eyes, ears, and first point of contact, working with traditional leaders and the local communities to safeguard our water bodies from illegal mining. Your duty is to observe, report, and escalate threats to the Ghana Navy Riverine Command Unit promptly.”

He reiterated that the Blue Water Guards, trained in surveillance, survival swimming, boat handling, and basic combat, will work in collaboration with the Ghana Navy but will not engage in direct confrontations.

Instead, they are tasked with intelligence gathering and relaying real-time information for swift military response.

To ensure effective operations, the Ministry has established Temporary Operating Bases (TOBs) along the Ankobra, Fia, Bonsa, and downstream Pra rivers.

The initiative is set to be expanded to the Ashanti, Central, Eastern, Bono, and Savannah regions, aiming to create over 2,000 direct jobs while protecting Ghana’s natural ecosystems.

Also present was the Deputy Minister of Defence, Hon. Brogya Genfi, who reaffirmed the Navy’s unwavering support for the initiative, describing illegal mining as one of the greatest threats to Ghana’s environment and national future.

The commissioning of the Blue Water Guards signals a new era of strategic enforcement and community engagement in the fight against galamsey, with the government calling on all citizens to join as volunteers and play their part in preserving the nation’s water resources.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith