The fight to protect Ghana’s lands and water bodies is not the government’s battle alone. That was the urgent message from the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, as he addressed a significant milestone in the nation’s environmental defense.
Speaking at the passing-out ceremony of the 4th batch of Blue Water Guards at the military base in Ezilinbo, Jomoro municipality, the Minister welcomed 452 newly trained graduates into the ranks.
Their induction brings the total strength of the Blue Water Guards to 2,071 – a number that now stands as a symbol of hope in Ghana’s struggle against illegal mining and environmental degradation.
“Water is life,” Minister Buah emphasized before the gathering of guards, military officials, and community leaders. “Without clean rivers, our health, agriculture, and security are all at risk.”
He called for a united front that goes far beyond government action – involving chiefs, religious leaders, opinion leaders, the media, and every Ghanaian citizen. According to the Minister, the protection of the country’s natural resources demands collective responsibility.
Despite the scale of the challenge, the Minister struck an optimistic note. He revealed that the Blue Water Guards have already begun to deliver positive results.
“Nearly every district where they have been deployed is already showing clear improvements.”
He urged the newly trained officers not to relent but to carry out their mandate with courage and effectiveness. His parting words to them were direct “Do not give up. Stay true to your mission.”
The ceremony also featured remarks from Samuel Boateng Asiedu, Base Commander of the Ezilinbo Military Base.
Commander Asiedu confirmed that the recruits have received intensive, fully fledged training – including operational drills capable of supporting broader security efforts to safeguard water bodies.
But he offered more than tactical praise. Addressing the new graduates directly, he cautioned:
“Do not be driven solely by money. Stand firm in your operations. Let purpose, not profit, guide your duty.”
Minister Buah reassured the public that despite the need for collective action, the government remains unwavering in its commitment to combating illegal mining (galamsey) and restoring the dignity of Ghana’s environment.
By Ebenezer Atiemo
