Mining continues to play a critical role in Ghana’s economic development, contributing significantly to GDP growth and youth employment. However, alongside these benefits, the country faces serious environmental challenges, particularly the destruction of water bodies and forest reserves due to illegal and unregulated mining activities.
To address these challenges, state institutions such as the Minerals Commission, Forestry Commission, and the National Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) have intensified efforts to curb mining activities outside approved zones, especially within forest reserves and near water bodies. As part of these measures, additional security interventions have been introduced to protect rivers and other critical natural resources.
In line with this initiative, a stakeholder sensitization meeting was held on January 19, 2026, at the Atiwa East District Assembly Hall to formally introduce and deploy the Blue Water Guard. The meeting moderated by the Information Services Department brought together a wide range of stakeholders, demonstrating a strong collective commitment to environmental protection.
The event was attended by the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Atiwa East District Assembly, Hon. Ernest Owusu Ntim; traditional leaders including queen mothers; representatives from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources; all security agencies including the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB); Assembly Members; officials from the Forestry Commission, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Minerals Commission; the Traders Association; small-scale miners; the Local Council of Churches; the Muslim community; the Drivers’ Union; executives of both the NDC and NPP; Unit Committee members; and the media.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Ernest Owusu Ntim emphasized that mining remains one of the “beating hearts” of Ghana’s economy. He noted that land and water are essential resources for sustainable mining operations and stressed the importance of continuous stakeholder engagement to ensure the sector remains one of the strongest pillars of the national economy. While reiterating that mining has come to stay, the DCE expressed concern over the extensive damage caused to the Brim River—one of the major water bodies in the Eastern Region—due to unauthorized mining activities. He stated that the alarming condition of the river necessitates new and decisive strategies to protect water resources.
A representative from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources explained that the authority of the Blue Water Guard is derived from the District Chief Executive, the Police Commander, NAIMOS, and the National Security Coordinating Council. Any concerns regarding the conduct of the Blue Water Guard, the representative noted, should be formally directed to the DCE or the Police Commander.
The meeting was further informed that members of the Blue Water Guard are trained by the military security services. However, the law does not permit them to carry weapons during their operations. Despite this, they operate under strong protection from the National Security Coordinating Council, and any threat against them will be treated as a threat to the government. The welfare and administration of the Blue Water Guard will be managed by a consulting firm known as CEGTAG.
Traditional authorities present at the meeting pledged their full support to ensure the success of the Blue Water Guard’s operations. They committed to collaborating with state institutions to protect water bodies and forest lands from further destruction.
The deployment of the Blue Water Guard marks a significant step toward safeguarding Ghana’s natural resources while promoting responsible and sustainable mining practices in the Atiwa East District and beyond.
