Push to end deaths on inland waters… GMA distributes 20,000 life jackets, deploys 200 guards

The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has launched a nationwide project aimed at enhancing safety and reducing deaths on inland waterways. Dubbed the "Life Jackets for Safety and Livelihoods Project," the initiative seeks to protect lives and safeguard the livelihoods of communities that depend on rivers and lakes for transportation and sustenance.

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No Life Jacket, No Travel.

As a key component of the project, the GMA distributed 20,000 life jackets to various fishing and inland water transport communities. Additionally, 200 newly trained Inland Water Safety Guards were inaugurated. These guards will be responsible for monitoring compliance with safety regulations and promoting safe travel practices on the country's inland waters.

During the launch event in Accra, the Minister of Transport, Mr. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, hailed the project as a significant stride toward ending the persistent loss of lives on inland waterways. He reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring safer transportation for all citizens, especially those who rely on water bodies for their daily activities. The Minister also announced the strict enforcement of a "No Life Jacket, No Travel" policy, urging the safety guards to implement it without compromise.

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The authority is shifting from a reactive approach to a more proactive strategy in preventing accidents.

The Director-General of the GMA, Naval Captain (Rtd) Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, explained that the authority is shifting from a reactive to a proactive strategy in accident prevention. He noted the expansion of GMA's operational presence with new offices in key areas like Akosombo and Buipe. The safety guards, having undergone rigorous training with support from the Ghana Navy, will act as safety ambassadors, ensuring all passengers wear life jackets before embarking on any journey. The life jackets will be made accessible through subsidized sales and rental schemes to ensure affordability.

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The safety guards had undergone rigorous training with support from the Ghana Navy and would serve as ambassadors of safety, ensuring that passengers wear life jackets before boarding.