The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has partnered with local assemblies and traditional leaders in the Upper West Region to enforce inland water safety. This collaboration aims to curb recurring river disasters and safeguard commuters on the Black Volta.
The GMA is offering standard life jackets at a heavily subsidised rate of GHS 250 per piece, down from their usual retail price of over GHS 400. This financial incentive supports a strict "No Life Jacket, No Boarding" policy, seeking to eliminate fatal capsize incidents. The initiative follows tragic events, including seven student fatalities in the Lawra Municipality in 2025.
This safety drive aligns with the government's broader focus on protecting lives and property across all transport sectors. While road crashes historically dominate fatality statistics, inland water safety has now become a core operational priority for the GMA. This shift reflects a recognition that every life is invaluable, regardless of the mode of transport. The GMA has also established regional command posts and deployed 200 Inland Water Safety Guards nationwide to monitor compliance.
Naval Captain (Rtd) Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, Director-General of the Ghana Maritime Authority, stated, "Since assuming office, one of the top priorities we have set for ourselves is to enhance inland water safety." He added, "We are meant to solve difficult problems, and we cannot leave them unsolved." This statement underscores the authority's commitment to addressing long-standing safety challenges.
The enhanced safety measures and subsidies are expected to significantly reduce drowning incidents on Ghana's inland waterways. Decision-makers will closely monitor compliance rates and accident statistics to gauge the policy's effectiveness. The initiative also highlights the critical role of local government and traditional authorities in implementing national safety directives at the community level. Further expansion of the safety guard force to over 350 personnel is planned, alongside continued removal of submerged tree stumps.
Deputy Director of Public Relations at the GMA, Issah Kantagere Issahaku, revealed that non-compliance and lack of standard life jackets are leading causes of drowning. He cited eight fatalities in 2025 and nine lives lost in a 2026 disaster in the East Gonja District. The GMA is also offering bulk purchase rates of GHS 230 for communities and low-cost rental schemes at landing points to further reduce financial barriers.
Lawra Municipal Police Commander ASP Abdulai Kadir highlighted critical findings from the June 9, 2025, Dikpe boat tragedy. He noted the canoe was operated by an unlicensed minor under 16 years old, carrying passengers beyond its capacity. He appealed for clear legislative regulations and load-line standards to empower security agencies to prosecute non-compliant operators effectively.
Local government heads have pledged administrative and financial backing for the initiative. Lawra Municipal Chief Executive, Cecelia Nuratu Soyele, committed to co-funding life jacket costs with the local Member of Parliament. Wa West District Chief Executive, Richard Wullo, pledged to streamline authorised crossing routes and standardise boat fares to deter commuters from using unsafe, cheaper alternatives. These local commitments are vital for the successful implementation of the safety policies.
Nandom Municipal NADMO Director, Fidelis Naaikuur, pledged to intensify grassroots sensitisation across riparian communities. He also plans to mobilise local boat operators into structured associations to manage safety gear and map out all crossing points. These local actions are crucial for ensuring community buy-in and sustained adherence to safety protocols. The GMA's efforts between 2019 and 2026 successfully removed 26,448 submerged tree stumps nationwide, clearing navigational paths.