453 Blue Water Guards pass out to bolster fight against illegal mining in water bodies

A total of 453 personnel have completed training under the Blue Water Guard Initiative. They finished a four-week program at the Ghana Navy Forward Operating Base in Ezilibo. This base is located in the Jomoro District of the Western Region.

The passing-out ceremony took place today. It marks an important step in fighting illegal mining on Ghana’s rivers.

Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, addressed the new recruits. He announced that they will be deployed within a week to key river bodies. These include the Ankobra, Pra, Fia, Tano, and Bonsa rivers.

Their operations will be coordinated by five Naval Operational Bases along these rivers. This setup ensures strategic coverage and quick response capabilities.

“Today marks a new dawn in our fight against illegal mining,” said the Minister. He clarified that their mandate does not include direct engagement with illegal miners. Their role is to observe and report any threats to the Ghana Navy Riverine Command Centres.

He stressed discipline among the recruits. Any breach of conduct will lead to strict penalties. “Your task is sacred; our water bodies depend on your vigilance,” he added.

The Minister explained that Blue Water Guards will act as an early warning system. They will support surveillance efforts under the command of Ghana Navy Riverine Units. Temporary Operational Bases (TOBs) are set up along targeted rivers for quick intervention.

Operations will involve boat patrols, road surveillance, and intelligence sharing with security agencies. Daily reports and evaluations will go to the Minerals Commission and Ministry for accountability.

Mr. Buah also shared plans to expand the program to 2,000 guards across more regions like Central, Eastern, Ashanti, Bono, and Savannah. Additional resources such as speedboats and patrol vehicles will be acquired.

“This initiative creates jobs—2,000 direct jobs for Ghanaians,” he stated. “We empower citizens while protecting our natural heritage.”

The Minister warned illegal mining financiers to stop immediately or face legal consequences. He urged all Ghanaians to become Water Guard Volunteers in their communities and report suspicious activities.

Deputy Minister of Defence Brogya Gyamfi assured support from the Ministry but cautioned against overstepping their roles.

Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development Emelia Arthur praised the initiative too. She encouraged guards to stay committed to protecting Ghana’s fisheries resources.

The 453 Blue Water Guards trained intensively in endurance, arms handling, combat techniques, survival swimming, watermanship, and boat operations for their upcoming duties.