President John Dramani Mahama has announced a GHS 400 million allocation in the 2027 Budget to recruit additional Blue Water Guards. This funding aims to intensify the fight against illegal mining, known as galamsey, particularly on Ghana’s water bodies.
The additional funding will strengthen efforts to patrol rivers and prevent illegal miners from using changfang machines, which are motorized dredging devices, to destroy water bodies. President Mahama stated that the guards have instructions to destroy these machines on sight during their operations, a measure already leading to the clearance of major channels in some rivers.
This initiative fits into Ghana's broader struggle against illegal mining, which has severely polluted water sources and degraded forest reserves across the country. Previous attempts to curb galamsey have faced challenges, including the return of miners after security forces withdrew. The government's renewed commitment, backed by a substantial budget allocation, signals a more sustained approach to protecting natural resources and ensuring environmental sustainability.
Speaking during a courtesy call by the Western North Regional House of Chiefs at the Presidency, President Mahama confirmed the government's commitment. He said, “In next year’s Budget, the Minister of Finance has provided another GHS 400 million to employ more Blue Water Guards to patrol the water bodies.” This statement underscores the financial backing for the expanded operations.
The expanded Blue Water Guards initiative will likely lead to increased enforcement activities on Ghana's rivers and lakes. Decision-makers will monitor the effectiveness of these patrols in reducing water pollution and the destruction caused by changfang machines. The success of this program could significantly impact the health of Ghana's water bodies and the livelihoods of communities dependent on them.
President Mahama also disclosed progress in reclaiming forest reserves previously designated as red zones due to extensive destruction and the presence of heavily armed illegal miners. All nine red-zone forest reserves have now been cleared of illegal mining operators, with soldiers deployed to prevent their return. This marks a critical step in restoring degraded lands and protecting biodiversity.
The government is also collaborating with the Goldbod and the military to reclaim degraded forest lands through land levelling and planting economic trees. The Forestry Commission supports this restoration exercise. This multi-agency approach aims to reverse environmental damage and promote long-term ecological recovery.
President Mahama stressed the importance of stronger collaboration with traditional authorities in the fight against illegal mining, especially in forest reserves and around water bodies. He urged chiefs to support government efforts, recognizing their influence in local communities to prevent illegal activities and reduce confrontations between residents and security personnel. Their involvement is crucial for sustainable solutions.
The President linked the fight against galamsey to the need for creating alternative livelihoods for young people. He mentioned the government’s proposed US$10 billion New Economy Policy, which aims to invest in job-creating sectors. This policy seeks to discourage youth from engaging in illegal mining by providing viable economic opportunities.
President Mahama expressed concern about Senior High School students involved in illegal mining, noting that some enter pits because their parents cannot afford to support their education. He emphasized that law enforcement must combine with employment opportunities to address the economic pressures driving young people into illegal mining. This holistic approach is vital for lasting change.
He called for a united effort involving government, traditional authorities, and local communities to protect Ghana’s rivers and forests. This collective action is essential to ensure the sustainability of the country’s natural resources for future generations. The GHS 400 million investment is a significant part of this broader strategy.