Former Minister for Public Enterprises, Joseph Cudjoe, has called for Ghana’s major rivers to be classified as critical national security assets.
His proposal aims to shield these vital water bodies from ongoing destruction and pollution, which he warns could threaten the nation’s survival and future development.
Speaking on the issue, Mr. Cudjoe stressed the urgent need to place rivers such as the Volta, Black Volta, White Volta, Pra, Ankobra, Tano, Densu, and all rivers with water treatment plants and irrigation systems, under the protection of a specialised security force or the regular military.
He argued that any harmful activities near these rivers should be treated as acts of aggression against the state, warranting a strong security response.
“These rivers are indispensable for our agriculture, hydroelectric power generation, transportation, and drinking water supply,” Mr. Cudjoe explained.
He pointed out that other countries, including the United States, China, India, Brazil, Egypt, and Israel, have already implemented robust measures to secure their river systems.
Mr. Cudjoe further asserted that enacting this proposal into law, supported by a dedicated budget, could curb illegal mining (galamsey) and provide a lasting solution to river pollution.
“We may face resistance from those mining in and around the rivers, but many Ghanaians will welcome this decisive step, knowing that the government is confronting the issue head-on,” he concluded.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
