By Elsie Appiah-Osei
Accra, July 3, GNA – The Minister for the Interior, Alhaji Mubarak Muntaka, Wednesday announced measures to prevent further water tragedies following the drowning of seven Lawra Senior High School students in the Black Volta River near Dikpe, Upper West Region. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, June 14, 2025, had prompted the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) to implement coordinated interventions aimed at enhancing water safety and raising public awareness.
Addressing Parliament, the Minister mentioned regular sensitization of and for canoe owners and operators as well as residents along the Black Volta Basin.
He also named maritime safety education for students and identifiable bodies to promote a culture of safety.
Akhaji Muntaka told Parliament that the Ghana Maritime Authority would provide life jackets to canoe operators to ensure compliance with safety standards.
“Mr Speaker, REGSEC will conduct regular monitoring to ensure safety standards are upheld, including proper maintenance of canoes,” he said.
Alhaji Muntaka, also a National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP), noted that Lawra Senior High students, especially the three survivors, would receive psychosocial support to cope with the trauma.
He emphasized the importance of these measures, stating that the Regional Security Council, through coordinated efforts with all relevant agencies, has put in place these measures.
The Minister expressed hope that these interventions would help prevent similar incidents in the future, describing the deceased students as “future leaders whose lives were tragically cut short.”
He added that the Ghana Maritime Authority had also taken steps to promote water safety, organizing a sensitization programme for members of five communities along the Black Volta River.
This initiative, the Minister explained, aimed to educate the public and provide essential safety equipment to prevent similar tragedies.
“Mr Speaker, by implementing these measures, the government hopes to reduce the risk of water accidents and ensure a safer environment for residents and students in the affected areas,” he said.
GNA
Edited by Christian Akorlie