More Boats, More Rescues: IJM Ghana Project Inspires Ghanian Government To Commission Four New Boats

Thousands of children are enslaved by the fishing industry on Ghana’s Lake Volta, where children as young as six years old are forced to do dangerous work for up to 18 hours a day. 

But there’s hope on the horizon. We’re thrilled to share that in November 2025, with IJM’s support, the Ghanaian government commissioned four new patrol boats to strengthen police efforts against child trafficking on Lake Volta.  

More boats mean stronger enforcement, more rescues, and ultimately, safer childhoods. 

This government investment demonstrates crucial progress. What began in 2021 as a pilot project supported by IJM Ghana is now growing into a robust, government-led response. It’s bringing the country closer to IJM Ghana’s goal of having at least five government patrol boats on Lake Volta by 2028. 

At the commissioning ceremony, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the Minister for Interior thanked IJM for their vital contribution to the Marine Police Unit. IGP Christian Tetteh Yohonu highlighted the fact that IJM provided the first speedboats that enabled operations against child trafficking on the Volta Lake, in addition to vehicles and other logistical support:  

Let me express gratitude to International Justice Mission for their significant support to the Ghana police service. Specifically, IJM support in establishing a pilot Marine Police patrol team on Lake Volta has been instrumental, in addition the provision of four brand new patrol boats to enhance our capabilities on the lake, as well as two vehicles (one pickup and one minivan) to facilitate the team’s operations around the lake. This has significantly improved security in that area...[and] is a testament to IJM’s commitment to promoting maritime security and protecting the lives of our citizens. We are grateful for their partnership and look forward to continued collaboration.

The Ghanian government’s choice to expand the boat patrol project is a testament to the Marine Police Unit’s effectiveness, and it reflects a real commitment to fighting child exploitation on Lake Volta. It’s also a hopeful sign of a future—in Ghana and around the world—in which childhood is truly valued and protected.