The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has reinforced the Blue Water Guards initiative with the deployment of 636 additional personnel, bringing the total number of trained and deployed guards to 1,700 nationwide.
The announcement was made during the passing-out ceremony of the third batch of Blue Water Guards on Saturday, December 12, at the Ghana Navy Forward Operating Base in Ezilebo, Western Region.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, said the expanded deployment across seven regions demonstrates the government’s firm commitment to protecting Ghana’s water bodies from the destructive effects of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.
“The Blue Water Guards have become a critical frontline force in the fight against water pollution. They are working tirelessly to disrupt illegal mining activities along our rivers and streams,” the Minister said.
He added: “So far, we have trained about 1,700 Blue Water Guards across nearly seven regions. We are very proud of the pioneers who began this work. They are standing in the way of galamsey operators and making their activities increasingly difficult. We will remain resolute and continue this fight until our waters are restored.”
Minister Armah-Kofi Buah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to further expand and resource the initiative, emphasizing that safeguarding water resources is central to national environmental protection efforts.
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