The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is moving to redeploy its specialized Zodiac patrol boat, valued at GHS 4.2 billion, to enhance surveillance and protection of Ghana’s vital water bodies. This effort will involve a significant collaboration with the Ghana Navy. The EPA aims to use the vessel to combat increasing water pollution and recurring flooding incidents.
This initiative comes as Ghana faces growing environmental challenges affecting communities and natural ecosystems. The EPA’s Chief Executive Officer, Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, confirmed this development during a visit to Commodore Roger Bagoniah of the Western Naval Shipyard. The visit took place on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, to assess the boat's condition and discuss its operational future. The vessel, purchased in 2014, has remained largely underutilized despite its intended role in offshore petroleum monitoring and oil spill response.
Ghana consistently grapples with the economic fallout of water pollution and seasonal flooding. These issues disrupt livelihoods, damage infrastructure, and pose significant public health risks. The redeployment of this asset signifies a strategic step towards mitigating these challenges. Prior efforts by the EPA have included plans to dredge parts of the Tano River to prevent flooding, highlighting the ongoing national struggle against environmental degradation. Such incidents often incur substantial repair costs for the government and negatively impact local economies.
Professor Klutse emphasized the EPA’s current limitations. “The EPA does not have the technical expertise to operate the boat, but the Ghana Navy does,” she stated. This highlights the necessity of the collaboration, ensuring the vessel can be effectively deployed. Commodore Bagoniah welcomed the proposal, assuring the EPA of the Navy’s full support once a clear operational framework is established. This partnership aims to maximize the vessel’s utility and extend its operational lifespan. The eight-member crew Zodiac boat was originally intended for environmental surveillance and emergency response operations.
The successful deployment of the Zodiac boat could significantly improve monitoring of illegal activities on Ghana’s rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. It would also strengthen pollution control and emergency response capabilities, particularly concerning oil spills. This action is critical for safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources and supporting sustainable economic development. Decision-makers will closely monitor the establishment of the operational agreement between the EPA and the Ghana Navy. The effectiveness of this collaboration in addressing Ghana's pressing environmental concerns will be a key indicator of its success. This move could reduce economic losses from pollution and flooding.