Ghana Launches Blue Water Guards to Tackle Illegal Mining

Accra, Ghana - 17 March, 2025 - Ghana has taken a significant step in its fight against illegal mining with the launch of the Blue Water Guards, a new initiative aimed at protecting the country's river bodies from pollution and degradation.

The program, launched by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, will equip 2,000 Ghanaian youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to safeguard Ghana's river bodies effectively. The first phase of the project will involve 400 young Ghanaian men and women undergoing rigorous training by the Ghana Navy Riverine Command.

Speaking at the launch, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, emphasized the importance of the Blue Water initiative in the fight against illegal mining. He urged the recruits to recognize the gravity of their responsibility.

 “The protection of our river bodies is being entrusted to you. You cannot afford to be complacent or irresponsible in the discharge of your duties,” he said. He stressed that the importance of Ghana’s rivers cannot be overstated, as they are vital to the nation’s survival and development. He assured that the government would take all necessary actions to protect these resources, ensuring that depleted rivers recover their natural state while safeguarding unaffected ones.

“Our rivers are more than just bodies of water; they are the lifelines of our communities. They provide drinking water, support agriculture, sustain fisheries, drive tourism, and facilitate transportation. Yet, the selfish actions of illegal miners are robbing us of these vital resources. The Blue Water Initiative is our response—a comprehensive strategy to safeguard our water bodies and promote sustainable practices,” he stated.

“The success of the Blue Water Guards hinges on the support of every Ghanaian. This is not just a government initiative; it is a national call to action. We must all play our part in protecting our water resources. Today’s launch is only the first step. In the coming weeks, the Ministry is committed to recruiting 2,000 River Guards across mining communities nationwide,” he added.

The Blue Water Guards will be responsible for monitoring the health of Ghana's rivers, identifying areas of concern, and reporting any illegal activities for timely interventions. They will also work to prevent pollution in rivers and enforce laws and regulations related to river use.

The initiative has been praised by stakeholders, including the Western Regional Minister, Hon. Joseph Nelson, who highlighted the region's significance as the hub of Ghana's extractive industry. He noted that the Western Region holds one of the three major water systems in the country and has the highest concentration of water pollution caused by illegal small-scale mining activities.

“The Western Region holds one of the three major water systems in the country and has the highest concentration of water pollution caused by illegal small-scale mining activities. The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) was forced to shut down the Bonsa Water Treatment Plant, which produces 75% of potable water for Tarkwa and surrounding communities after efforts to treat the heavily polluted water proved futile,” he stated.

According to Mr. Emmanuel Kwamena Anyimah, Deputy CEO of the Minerals Commission, the program aligns perfectly with the Commission's goal of managing Ghana's mineral resources sustainably.

He views the initiative as a vital step in safeguarding the country's water bodies from the destructive effects of illegal mining.

Madam Constance Aning, Senior Water Management Officer at the Water Resources Commission's Ankobra Basin office, shared similar sentiments. Drawing from her firsthand experience, she emphasized the devastating impact of illegal mining on rivers and streams in the Ankobra Basin. Aning expressed optimism that the Blue Water Guards will play a crucial role in combating water pollution.

The launch of the Blue Water Guards is part of President John Dramani Mahama's commitment to restoring and protecting Ghana's environment while rehabilitating polluted water bodies. The initiative is seen as a critical step towards protecting Ghana's water bodies from the devastating effects of illegal mining.

Source: Lead News Online