Students at the University of Ghana have expressed mixed reactions to the potential effectiveness of the newly commissioned Blue Water Guards in tackling illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, recently commissioned 453 recruits into the Blue Water Guards after they completed training at the Naval Operating Base in Ezinlibo. The initiative aims to combat illegal mining activities on major water bodies across the country.
In interviews with Univers News, students voiced varying opinions about the initiative. While some are hopeful about its impact, others remain skeptical.
“Ghana’s galamsey crisis has persisted due to corruption and complicity among those tasked with ending it. There have been reports of officials accepting bribes from foreign nationals, which only enables illegal mining and leads to environmental destruction and revenue loss,” one student remarked.
Another student noted, “The fight against galamsey has been undermined by extortion, making efforts to curb illegal mining ineffective. This has negatively affected the country’s development.”
Others believe a new direction is necessary. “Ghana needs a fresh approach to end galamsey. The old methods are not working. New strategies, strong political will, and careful planning are key to protecting the environment,” a student suggested.
However, there are students who are optimistic about the initiative. “Since they are newly trained and tasked specifically with protecting Ghana’s water resources, I believe the Blue Water Guards can make a difference in addressing galamsey and reducing pollution,” one hopeful student shared.
Story by: Linda Achiaa Gyasi | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by: Cindy Selasi Humade
