Commodore Emmanuel Ayesu Kwafo, Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, has urged the newly recruited 460 River Guards to focus on their mandate and responsibilities.
These personnel are set to undergo one month spercialised training at the Ghana Navy Forward Operating Base in Ezinlibo, Jomoro District, to become frontline defenders of Ghana’s water bodies.
At the launch of the Blue Water Initiative, Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah emphasized the importance of protecting Ghana’s rivers and waterways.
Commodore Kwafo, Commanding Officer of the Western Naval Command, highlighted that the training program is not aimed at turning participants into military personnel, but rather equipping them with necessary skills to safeguard the country’s water resources.
“This training will not transform you into military personnel, but it will equip you with the skills to perform very important work. You won’t become expert swimmers, but you’ll learn to operate safely on water”.
“You won’t be trained as medical officers, but you’ll acquire first aid skills to support your colleagues in case of medical emergencies”.
“We’ll provide you with numerous capabilities, but the most crucial aspect is your cooperation and willingness to learn. You’ll acquire a lot of knowledge within this short period, and then you’ll continue learning on the job, building your capacity as you go.”
As part of the Blue Water Initiative, these River Guards will play a crucial role in safeguarding Ghana’s water bodies and combating illegal mining activities.
Commodore Emmanuel Ayesu Kwafo emphasized the importance of protecting Ghana’s water bodies during his address. He revealed that every river or stream in the country with drinkable water contains some gold deposits. Interestingly, these gold deposits actually help purify the water.
However, this also means that mining activities must be carefully managed to prevent contamination of the water bodies. If harmful chemicals are introduced into the water, Ghana Water will attempt to purify it by adding chlorine, which can lead to health issues when consumed.
As the Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, Commodore Kwafo acknowledged that the navy’s initial focus was on the sea, but they have come to realize the crucial role freshwater plays in supporting marine life.
The navy is now committed to protecting Ghana’s water bodies and supporting the anti-galamsey fight.
