Ghana is still in the process of ending illegal mining activities on its rivers and within forest reserves where such farming occurs.
An initiative called BLUE WATER GUARDS has been set up, with the duty of relaying tip-offs from various communities about illegal mining, known as galamsey, to security agencies for appropriate action.
However, according to the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, the government has trained approximately 1,700 Blue Water Guards across nearly seven regions, and believes this effort is making the right progress in fighting galamsey.
He shared this information with the media at Ezilinbo in the Ellembelle District after a successful graduation ceremony for about 630 youths who have undergone training as Blue Water Guards. They are now heading to their respective regions to work closely with the Ghana Navy, the NAIMOS, and the police service in a collective effort to restore the waters polluted by illegal miners back to their natural blue colour.
He emphasised that they may be tempted by illegal miners but must remain steadfast, as they are the country’s sole hope in safeguarding the waters.
Hon. Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah assured them they would not be walking alone, as the government will continue to support them. He added that 1000 Motorbikes have been procured in collaboration with the Minerals Commission to bolster the efforts of the Blue Water Guards.
