The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, in collaboration with the Asutifi South District Assembly in the Ahafo Region, has inaugurated 50 Blue Water Guards to protect water bodies in the district from illegal mining activities.
The initiative forms part of government’s efforts to curb illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, and safeguard the country’s rivers and other water resources.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony at Dadiesoaba, the Community Relations Manager of the Minerals Commission, Stephen Agbo, who represented the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, cautioned illegal miners against attacking or obstructing the newly recruited personnel in the discharge of their duties.
He explained that the Blue Water Guards have been deployed by government to monitor and protect water bodies from illegal mining activities and called on traditional authorities and residents to support them in carrying out their mandate.
According to him, the success of the initiative will depend largely on the cooperation of communities, noting that the 50 recruits, comprising 48 men and two women, cannot win the fight against illegal mining without the support of the public.
The District Chief Executive for Asutifi South, Benjamin Assabil Donkor, welcomed the deployment of the Blue Water Guards, describing it as a major step towards protecting water bodies in the district.
He warned that anyone arrested for engaging in illegal mining in rivers and streams would face the full rigours of the law, urging residents to desist from such activities.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional authorities, the Akwamuhene of Dadiesoaba, Nana Apau Baffour, advised the recruits to remain committed to their responsibilities and avoid collaborating with illegal miners.
He urged them to uphold the trust reposed in them and work diligently to ensure that water bodies in the district are protected from destruction.
Nana Apau Baffour assured the Blue Water Guards of the full support of the chiefs and people of the area as they carry out their duties.
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