Galamsey Fight: Recruitment for Blue Water Guards Begins in Ashanti, Eastern and Central Regions
The government has begun a new round of recruitment for the Blue Water Guards in the Ashanti, Eastern and Central Regions, signaling an intensified effort to protect Ghana’s water bodies from the devastating impact of illegal mining (galamsey).
According to the Lands Ministry, the ongoing recruitment is part of the next phase of the Blue Water Initiative, a specialised eco-security programme launched to support the fight against pollution and restore damaged river systems. Successful applicants will undergo training in river patrols, environmental protection, surveillance, and anti-illegal mining operations.
The Blue Water Guards work in collaboration with the Ghana Navy, Water Resources Commission, and the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS). Their responsibilities include monitoring and reporting illegal mining activities, preventing contamination of major water bodies, and supporting enforcement teams during field operations.
Government officials say expanding recruitment into these three regions is strategic, as they remain hotspots for galamsey activities. Increasing the number of trained guards is expected to boost community-level vigilance and strengthen rapid response efforts along major rivers and forest belts.
The Lands Ministry has emphasized its commitment to restoring polluted rivers such as the Pra, Offin and Birim, noting that the success of the national galamsey fight depends heavily on sustained manpower, local engagement and strict enforcement.
Recruitment is currently ongoing, and qualified applicants are encouraged to follow official ministry channels for guidelines and application procedures.