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By Samuel Asamoah
The Government of Ghana has officially launched a national lifeguarding initiative aimed at tackling the growing menace of drowning, which continues to claim an estimated 1,400 lives annually across the country.
Deputy Interior Minister, Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi described drowning as a critical public safety and national security concern that requires urgent and coordinated national action.
Speaking on behalf of the sector ministry, the Deputy Minister emphasized that recent tragic incidents, including the loss of lives at Aboadze Beach, underscore the need to move beyond treating drowning as isolated events.
“Drowning is not theoretical. It is immediate, real, and affecting Ghanaian families today,” he stressed, noting that security for citizens must also include safety in and around water bodies.
The initiative, themed “Drowning Prevention as a Public Safety and National Security Priority: The Critical Role of Lifeguarding,” forms part of a broader national strategy to strengthen prevention systems, enhance emergency response, and build local capacity through structured lifeguard training and deployment.
Multi-sector collaboration
The programme is being implemented through a multi-agency partnership involving key institutions such as the Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Police Service, Ghana Navy, National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), National Ambulance Service, Ghana Health Service, and the Ghana Tourism Authority.
Academic and international partners, including the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit and Bloomberg Philanthropies, are also providing technical and financial support, alongside local academic expertise from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology.
Early results show promise
Authorities revealed that the initiative is already yielding results, with trained lifeguards deployed to high-risk coastal areas and having successfully carried out rescue operations.
The Minister noted that lifeguards play a critical role in monitoring beaches, identifying potential dangers, and providing rapid intervention during emergencies, measures that can mean the difference between life and death.
He added that pilot training programmes have demonstrated the feasibility of building local expertise when institutions collaborate effectively.
Policy reforms underway
As part of efforts to institutionalize drowning prevention, government is considering a review of existing legislation, including Act 537, to better integrate drowning prevention into the mandate of the Ghana National Fire Service.
The move is expected to clarify roles, strengthen coordination, and ensure sustained implementation of safety measures nationwide.
Stakeholders rally support
At the event, key stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to the initiative.
A representative of the Ghana Navy, Ben Baba Abdul, highlighted the importance of maritime safety collaboration, particularly along Ghana’s coastline.
From the academic and research front, Abdulgafoor Bachani of the Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit underscored the need for data-driven interventions and sustained investment in prevention strategies.
Meanwhile, Professor Emmanuel Nakua of KNUST stressed the role of research, training, and community education in reducing drowning risks, especially among young people.
Community engagement key
Stakeholders emphasized that beyond institutional efforts, community awareness and participation will be crucial to the success of the programme.
With water bodies playing a central role in livelihoods, transport, and recreation, authorities say educating the public on safety practices and risk awareness is essential.
A national call to action
The launch also featured the inauguration of a National Coordination Board for Drowning Prevention, expected to drive policy direction and ensure sustained collaboration among stakeholders.
According to the Deputy Interior Minister the initiative is a turning point in Ghana’s approach to water safety.
“This is more than a ceremony. It is a statement that Ghana is acting—that preventable drowning deaths can no longer be accepted as inevitable,” he said.
The lifeguarding initiative marks a significant step toward safeguarding lives and ensuring that Ghana’s beaches and waterways remain safe for all.
