Lawra: The Minister for the Interior, Alhaji Mubarak Muntaka, has unveiled new measures to avert further water tragedies following the drowning of seven Lawra Senior High School students in the Black Volta River near Dikpe, Upper West Region. The tragic incident, which happened on Saturday, June 14, 2025, has spurred the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) to implement coordinated interventions aimed at improving water safety and increasing public awareness.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister addressed Parliament, outlining plans for regular sensitization of canoe owners, operators, and residents along the Black Volta Basin. He highlighted the introduction of maritime safety education for students and community groups to foster a culture of safety.
Alhaji Muntaka informed Parliament that the Ghana Maritime Authority would supply life jackets to canoe operators to ensure adherence to safety standards. He stated, "Mr Speaker, REGSEC will conduct regular monitoring to ensure safety standards are upheld, including proper maintenance of canoes."
The Minister, who is also a National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP), noted that Lawra Senior High students, particularly the three survivors, would receive psychosocial support to help them cope with the trauma. He emphasized the significance of these measures, ensuring that the Regional Security Council, through collaboration with relevant agencies, has established these safety protocols.
Expressing hope that these interventions would prevent similar incidents in the future, he lamented the loss of the students as "future leaders whose lives were tragically cut short." Additionally, he mentioned that the Ghana Maritime Authority had organized a sensitization program for five communities along the Black Volta River, aiming to educate the public and distribute essential safety equipment to avoid similar tragedies.
The Minister concluded, "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."
