The Deputy Minister for Transport, Dorcas Affo-Toffey, has endorsed the government’s inland water safety initiative, describing it as a timely intervention to save lives, improve livelihoods, and boost tourism in riverine communities.
She made the remarks during the commissioning of 200 Inland Water Safety and Regulatory Officers and the distribution of 20,000 life jackets in Accra, an event aimed at strengthening safety standards on Ghana’s inland waterways.
The programme forms part of broader government efforts to reduce fatalities linked to water transport accidents through stricter enforcement of safety regulations and intensified public education.
Speaking to Onua News on the sidelines of the event, Madam Affo-Toffey expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for spearheading the initiative through the Ministry of Transport and the Ghana Maritime Authority.
“I want to thank His Excellency the President of the Republic for this great initiative. I think it’s long overdue, especially when you consider the number of lives that have been lost on our rivers and inland water bodies over the years,” she said.
She stressed that the initiative comes at a crucial time, noting that many communities continue to record avoidable deaths due to unsafe practices and the non-use of life jackets.
Madam Affo-Toffey urged the public, especially residents of inland communities, to embrace the programme and support efforts to promote water safety.
“We need everybody to buy into this initiative. We must all become campaigners and spread the message across the country,” she said.
She further highlighted the importance of the initiative for communities such as Nzulezu and Djoe Wofe, where water transport is a key part of daily life, including commerce, education, healthcare access, and tourism.
According to her, improved safety on inland waterways would not only protect lives but also strengthen local economies and attract investment in tourism.
“What this initiative will do is save lives and enhance the livelihoods of my people. It will improve transportation, boost tourism, and contribute to community development,” she noted.
A key component of the policy is the enforcement of a “No Life Jacket, No Travel” rule on inland waterways. Madam Affo-Toffey pledged to champion the directive within her constituency and support nationwide compliance.
She also called on the public to cooperate with the newly commissioned Inland Water Safety and Regulatory Officers tasked with enforcing safety standards and educating operators and passengers.
“As an MP, I am going to champion this cause. We will ensure the rules are followed,” she said.
While acknowledging possible initial resistance, she expressed confidence that sustained education and awareness would encourage compliance and change attitudes over time.
She added that many water-related deaths are preventable and referenced demonstrations at the launch event that showed how life jackets significantly improve survival chances during accidents.
Madam Affo-Toffey appealed to all users of inland waterways, including passengers, canoe owners, and boat operators, to prioritise safety and make life jackets a mandatory part of every journey.
“Life jackets save lives, and this initiative will help protect everyone who depends on water transport,” she emphasized.
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