“It is not a job for the boys” – Lands Minister on River Guards deployment

The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has dismissed claims that the River Guards initiative is an avenue to create jobs for party members.

A few days ago, the minister announced the launch of the ‘Blue Water Initiative’ and the training of the first batch of ‘River Guards’ to curb the environmental impact of illegal mining in the Western Region.

The initiative is part of President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to restoring Ghana’s environment while rehabilitating polluted water bodies.

However, some Ghanaians have opposed the initiative, describing it as a waste of resources to benefit a selected few.

Speaking on Saturday, March 22, the minister said the programme is well-structured to protect the country’s water bodies as part of the illegal mining fight.

He added that the programme is facilitated by the Ghana Navy to make it effective.

“It is not a job for the boys. This is a well-thought-out programme, shepherded by the Ghana Navy. The Navy is overseeing its training at its bases, and the plan is to establish 12 riverine bases across the country, including in Ashanti, Eastern, North, and Western regions.

“Since the Navy cannot be everywhere at once, these guards will serve as the eyes and ears on the ground, ensuring quick response when needed,” he explained.

Mr. Armah-Kofi Buah continued that the primary role of the river guards, selected from communities directly affected by illegal mining, is to monitor and serve as first responders, relaying critical information to the Ghana Navy for rapid intervention.

This, he added, is in response to concerns that the deployed river guards are unarmed and lack enforcement powers.

Addressing the possibility of the guards being compromised, the kands minister said their presence on the field is better than leaving the water bodies unprotected.

“But what we are doing is better than doing nothing at all. The alternative—leaving our water bodies unprotected—is simply unacceptable,” he stated in a discussion on JoyNews’ Newsfile.