By Kingsley Mamore
Dambai(O/R), March 24, GNA – Mr David Kwasi Afezame, the President of the Ghana Life Saving and Diving Association (GLSDA), has said transport safety must not be politicised as accidents affect all citizens regardless of their political affiliation.
He said safety issues, particularly in water transport, should be treated as a collective national responsibility rather than a matter for partisan debate.
In an exclusive interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) he added that the GLSDA was working closely with the Ghana Maritime Authority to address these concerns through training programmes for boat operators to strengthen their swimming capacity.
“When you board a boat, accidents do not recognise political parties,” Mr Afezame stated, underscoring the need for all stakeholders to prioritise safety at all times.
He noted that both government and opposition supporters faced the same risks when safety regulations were ignored and therefore called for unity in addressing transport safety challenges.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration among government agencies, boat operators, and passengers to improve safety outcomes.
Mr Afezame urged boat operators to adhere strictly to safety protocols, including avoiding overloading and ensuring that life jackets were available and worn by all passengers.
He appealed to passengers to take personal responsibility for their safety by insisting on wearing life jackets before embarking on any journey on water bodies.
He advised passengers to remain vigilant, check safety conditions and report concerns, including overloading and the absence of life jackets to the appropriate authorities.
Mr Afezame called on authorities and relevant agencies to intensify public education and enforce safety regulations, particularly on inland waterways to help reduce accidents and save lives.
He reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to promoting lifesaving training and improving safety standards across the country, noting that the GLSDA planned to expand its training programmes to reach more boat operators and stakeholders in other regions.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/George-Ramsey Benamba