John Mahama allocates GH₵400m for Blue Water Guards in 2027 budget

President John Mahama has announced an additional allocation of GH‵400 million in the 2027 national budget to recruit Blue Water Guards tasked with protecting water bodies from illegal mining. Speaking during a meeting with the Western North Regional House of Chiefs at Jubilee House, the President emphasized that while enforcement is critical, the government must also address the economic hardships that drive youth toward the sector. He noted that law enforcement efforts alone are insufficient without viable alternatives for those currently dependent on galamsey.

To provide these alternatives, the President introduced a five-year, US$10 billion "New Economy Policy" aimed at stimulating industrial growth and job creation. This strategic initiative targets nine sectors, including agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and tourism. Specifically for the Western North Region, the plan includes the establishment of 100,000 hectares of oil palm plantations and the expansion of rubber production. Mahama urged traditional authorities to invest in these agricultural ventures to help build a sustainable local economy that discourages illegal mining activities.

Regarding current enforcement, the President reported that the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has successfully cleared illegal miners from nine forest reserves with military support. However, he acknowledged that community resistance and violent confrontations remain significant challenges for security forces. He appealed to the traditional leaders, led by Ogyeahoho Gyebi II, to use their influence to mitigate local tensions and support the government's conservation efforts. The President highlighted that even students have been found working in illegal mines due to financial pressure, making community cooperation essential for long-term success.

Beyond environmental protection, the government is committing to significant infrastructure development in the Western North Region, including the construction of a regional hospital and improvements to roads and sports facilities. The broader strategy involves not only halting illegal mining but also reclaiming degraded lands and replanting destroyed forests with economic trees. Ogyeahoho Gyebi II expressed the chiefs' support for these initiatives, acknowledging the development projects currently underway in the region under the Mahama administration.