The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has dismissed claims that the deployment of river guards to protect Ghana’s water bodies is merely a “job for the boys.”
He maintained that the initiative is a well-structured programme aimed at curbing illegal mining and water pollution, with strategic support from the Ghana Navy.
“It is a job for the boys. This is a well-thought-out programme, shepherded by the Ghana Navy. The Navy is overseeing its training at its bases, and the plan is to establish 12 riverine bases across the country, including in Ashanti, Eastern, North, and Western regions. Since the Navy cannot be everywhere at once, these guards will serve as the eyes and ears on the ground, ensuring quick response when needed,” he explained on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, March 12.
Addressing concerns that river guards are unarmed and lack enforcement powers, the minister clarified that their role is primarily to monitor and serve as first responders, relaying critical information to the Ghana Navy for rapid intervention.
He added that the river guards are selected from communities directly affected by illegal mining, making them familiar with local challenges. This community-based approach, he noted, fosters accountability and enhances their effectiveness in protecting water bodies.
When asked about the risk of river guards being compromised, as has sometimes happened with security forces, the minister acknowledged the concern but insisted that doing nothing was not an option.
“Everything you said is true. But what we are doing is better than doing nothing at all. The alternative—leaving our water bodies unprotected—is simply unacceptable,” he stated.
The Blue Water Initiative, part of the broader Reset Ghana Agenda, aims to train 2,000 personnel nationwide by the end of the year. Currently, 400 recruits are undergoing intensive training at the Ghana Navy Forward Operating Base in Ezinlibo in the Western Region.
Their primary duties will include monitoring river health, identifying illegal mining activities, and working with local communities and traditional authorities to combat water pollution.