Transport Minister Launches “No Life Jacket, No Travelling” Campaign, Commissions 200 Safety Guards

The Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, has officially inaugurated the Life Jackets for Safety and Livelihoods programme and commissioned 200 Safety Guards, a groundbreaking government initiative aimed at reducing drowning fatalities and enhancing safety on Ghana's inland water bodies.

The ceremony was held at the Ghana Maritime Authority on Monday.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Nikpe stated that the government has shifted from education to action. Under the new directive, passengers will be required to wear life jackets while travelling on inland water bodies.

This initiative is strategic and lifesaving, as we are enforcing safety protocols to ensure that every life on our water bodies is protected, the Minister stated.

Mr Nikpe commended the newly commissioned Safety Guards and tasked them with ensuring compliance across all 1,600 inland water communities nationwide.

The 200 guards underwent rigorous selection and training to enforce life jacket use and basic water safety protocols prior to boat departures.

As part of the programme, the government has made 20,000 life jackets available across inland water communities for both sale and rental, making access affordable for fishermen, traders, and commuters.

The Transport Minister advised citizens to adhere to directives from the Safety Guards and follow established safety protocols when travelling on water. He emphasized that the combination of enforcement, accessible equipment, and public education is crucial in saving lives.