The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has officially launched the Blue Water Initiative, a nationwide program aimed at tackling illegal mining and restoring Ghana’s polluted rivers.
As part of the initiative, 460 recruits, known as Blue Water Guards, are currently undergoing specialized training at the Ghana Navy Forward Operating Base in Ezilebo, Jomoro District. These personnel will serve as frontline defenders of Ghana’s water bodies, ensuring their protection and sustainability.
Minister Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah has emphasized the urgent need to protect Ghana’s natural resources.
Appearing before the Parliamentary Appointments Committee on January 27, he proposed the establishment of a specialized water guard force to safeguard the nation’s rivers and water bodies. He noted that the current practice of deploying military personnel for this purpose is both costly and unsustainable.
Instead, he advocated for a permanent, trained team dedicated specifically to protecting forests and water bodies from destruction.
At the launch, the Minister said, “The imperative for urgent action has never been more pressing. The heart of why we are here is the Blue Water Initiative, and at the heart of this initiative lies the Blue Water Guards program, which aims to train, this year alone, 2,000 dedicated individuals across the country to protect our water bodies.”
Underscoring their mandate, he noted, “They will serve as the frontline defenders for our rivers, ensuring that our water resources remain a source of life, livelihood, and prosperity for generations to come. Their responsibilities are paramount in the fight against illegal mining, especially for our water bodies. Their focus will be on monitoring river health, identifying areas of concern, and reporting illegal activities for timely intervention. They will also help establish institutions to fight and prevent pollution.”
The Minerals Commission, a key partner in the initiative, has pledged its full support. Deputy CEO Emmanuel Anyimah highlighted the critical role of the Blue Water Guards in protecting Ghana’s natural resources and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the country’s water bodies.
“Our mission is to create a win-win environment where mining investment thrives, but not at the expense of our environment or the well-being of our people. We will provide the necessary laboratory support, technical guidance, and oversight to ensure that progress is well managed and that our teams execute their mandates effectively.”
Meanwhile, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Western Naval Command, Commodore Emmanuel Ayesu Kwafo, urged the recruits to approach their training with dedication and discipline, emphasizing the importance of their role in safeguarding Ghana’s water resources.