The government has announced bold new measures to improve safety and regulation across Ghana’s inland waterways, particularly around the Volta Lake, which serves as a lifeline for many communities.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, Minister of Transport Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe outlined plans to address the persistent dangers faced by passengers and operators using these waterways.
“To enhance the safety and regulation of inland water transport, the Ghana Maritime Authority will soon open an Inland Waterways Safety and Regulation Office at Akosombo.”
Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe
The office will focus on implementing policies, overseeing safety measures, and coordinating rescue operations to protect those who rely on water transport for their daily commute and economic activities.
The minister emphasized the government’s collaboration with the Volta Lake Transport Company (VLTC) to enhance safety across the lake.
As part of this initiative, a search and rescue unit will be established at Kpandotorkor to serve as a rapid-response team for emergencies.
“In addition, the Ghana Maritime Authority’s search and rescue vessel, Martey Korley, will be stationed there, and I look forward to commissioning this viable or important project.”
Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe
Hon. Nikpe added that this is to support rescue operations and provide timely interventions in the event of accidents.
The minister painted a vivid picture of the challenges faced by communities along the Volta Lake and other inland waterways.
“Most people living along the Volta Lake and other water bodies depend on canoes and boats for daily transportation. However, inland waterways often lack security measures, leading to frequent accidents and deaths.”
Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe
According to him, 2025 has already witnessed tragic incidents. In Dipe, located in the Lora District, seven students drowned, while two others lost their lives in a separate boat accident in Bonpama in the Wa West District.
He also mentioned that his own constituency, Sabuba, has experienced similar tragedies, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in water transport safety.
Safety Officers and Satellite Offices
To combat these recurring accidents, Hon. Bukari Nikpe noted that the government, through the Ghana Maritime Authority, is deploying specially trained safety officers to monitor and enforce regulations across inland waterways.
Satellite offices will also be established to ensure close supervision and immediate response to emergencies.
Hon. Nikpe disclosed that President John Mahama is expected to commission these safety teams later this year after their training has been completed.
These efforts, he said, form part of a broader vision to modernize Ghana’s water transport systems and make them safer for users.
Beyond inland waterways, the government is also taking steps to explore opportunities for coastal water transport.
This initiative aims to complement the existing road transport system, reduce congestion on highways, and open up new avenues for trade and tourism.
“As part of President Mahama’s vision to develop a coastal water transport system to complement the existing road transport system, we are commissioning a feasibility study to explore the potential in the private sector in the coastal water transport system.”
Hon. Joseph Bukari Nikpe
Accordingly, Hon. Nikpe encouraged local firms with relevant expertise to take part in this emerging sector, noting that a special invitation for expressions of interest will be published soon.
The minister expressed optimism that the involvement of private companies would bring in innovation and investment, helping to create a modern, reliable, and safe water transport system for Ghana’s future.
A Safer Future for Ghana’s Inland Waterways
The minister’s announcements reflect a significant shift toward prioritizing the safety of those who depend on inland waterways.
With the new safety offices, search and rescue units, and the deployment of trained personnel, the government is laying the groundwork for a more secure and efficient transport system.
By combining these measures with plans to expand coastal water transport, Ghana aims to transform its waterways into a viable alternative to road transport while reducing tragic accidents and enhancing economic connectivity.
As Hon. Nikpe emphasized, these initiatives are not just about infrastructure but about saving lives and improving livelihoods for thousands of Ghanaians who depend on water transport daily.
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