By: Celestine Avi and Seth Eyiah
President John Mahama has discussed that government will allocate an additional GH¢400 million in the 2027 Budget to recruit more Blue Water Guards as part of intensified efforts to combat illegal mining and protect Ghana’s water bodies.
Addressing a delegation of traditional authorities from the Western North Region at the Jubilee House, the President called on chiefs across the country to support government’s efforts to tackle galamsey, protect forest reserves and improve sanitation.
He stressed that collaboration between traditional leaders and government was crucial to safeguarding the country’s natural resources and ensuring their sustainable use.
On forest protection, President Mahama said government had cleared illegal miners from nine forest reserves identified as red zones, with the military deployed to help prevent their return.
He added that efforts would be made to reclaim degraded lands and restore tree cover.
The President further emphasised the need to create sustainable jobs and alternative livelihoods for young people, describing this as critical to reducing their involvement in illegal mining.
He urged traditional authorities to work with government to protect forests and water bodies in their communities and support initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable development.
President Mahama reaffirmed government’s commitment to partnering with traditional authorities to accelerate development and improve living conditions across the country.
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