Government Launches River Guard Against Illegal Mining


The Ghanaian government, through the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, has launched the Blue Water River Guard training program, a key initiative under the broader Blue Water Initiative aimed at protecting the country’s river bodies from illegal mining.

The program, which will train 2,000 young Ghanaians, is being implemented in phases, with an initial batch of 400 recruits undergoing specialized training by the Ghana Navy Riverine Command under the supervision of the Minerals Commission. These recruits will be deployed to safeguard rivers and enforce environmental regulations.

At the launch event in Ezinlibo, Jomoro Municipality, Western Region, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, MP, delivered a speech on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, emphasizing the initiative’s role in combating illegal mining.

Hon. Armah-Kofi Buah urged recruits to approach their duties with dedication, stressing that Ghana’s rivers are critical to the nation's survival and economic growth.

"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 warned.

Highlighting the importance of rivers in providing drinking water, sustaining agriculture, supporting fisheries, and driving tourism, he condemned illegal mining activities that threaten these resources.

“The Blue Water Initiative is our response—a comprehensive strategy to safeguard our water bodies and promote sustainable practices,” he added.

The minister outlined the responsibilities of the Blue Water Guards, charging them with monitoring river health, preventing pollution, and enforcing regulations in collaboration with law enforcement agencies.

He also called for nationwide support, stressing that the fight against illegal mining requires collective action.

Western Regional Minister Hon. Joseph Nelson underscored the urgency of the initiative, noting that illegal mining has severely polluted the region’s water bodies. He cited the shutdown of the Bonsa Water Treatment Plant in Tarkwa, which provided 75% of potable water for Tarkwa and surrounding communities, as a dire consequence of unchecked pollution.

He also pointed out the cross-border impact of contaminated rivers, which have affected Ivory Coast, straining diplomatic relations.


Deputy CEO of the Minerals Commission, Mr. Emmanuel Kwamena Anyimah, and Madam Constance Aning, Senior Water Management Officer at the Water Resources Commission, both lauded the initiative. They expressed confidence that the Blue Water Guards would play a critical role in reversing the devastating effects of illegal mining on Ghana’s rivers.

With the first 400 recruits set to begin training immediately, the government has pledged to expand the initiative nationwide, marking a significant step toward protecting Ghana’s water bodies for future generations.

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