The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has formally inducted 530 newly trained personnel into the Blue Water Initiative, tasking them with safeguarding Ghana’s invaluable water bodies from the scourge of illegal mining activities.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Ezinlibo Naval Base in the Western Region, underscores the government’s unrelenting commitment to reclaiming polluted rivers and protecting communities from the devastating effects of galamsey.
With unbridled fervor, Mr. Buah emphasized that the Blue Water Guards are at the forefront of the government’s strategy to curb the menace of illegal small-scale mining, particularly in water bodies.
He noted that the new recruits follow in the footsteps of the first cohort of 453 guards who have achieved notable successes in combating illegal mining operations since their deployment.
He observed that mining per se is not the nemesis, but rather the lawlessness that has besmirched the sector.
“Mining is not the enemy. When done with due diligence and responsibility, it can be a catalyst for community upliftment and national development. The enemy is the lawlessness that has turned this sector into a threat,” he declared.
Mr. Buah praised the Ghana Navy for their collaboration, highlighting the critical role of the training provided by the Navy’s Riverine Command in preparing the recruits for their responsibilities.
“Together, we are on a quest to vanquish this menace,” he asserted.
The Blue Water Guards are positioned to play a crucial role in monitoring and protecting water bodies from illegal mining activities, enforcing the law with impartiality, and engaging communities to promote local stewardship and water resource conservation.
“You are not merely guards; you are community sentinels, entrusted with a sacred trust,” the Minister charged the recruits. “I exhort you to discharge this responsibility with courage and integrity.”
The National Anti-Illegal Mining Secretariat (NAIMOS) will provide support to the Guards, serving as the operational nerve center in the fight against illegal mining and its associated environmental degradation.
The government is also set to launch the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Program, designed to empower local miners with modern tools, skills, and legal frameworks to engage in sustainable mining practices.
The Lands and Natural Resources Minister assured the Guards and the Ghanaian public of the government’s commitment to restoring the nation’s rivers. “The people of Ghana stand behind you. Together, we will restore our rivers to their rightful state: clean, blue, and life-giving.”
