The Ampeyo Gyasehene, Nana Kwaku Ware, has urged the Ghana Boundary Commission (GhBC) to expedite the peaceful settlement of the long-standing Fotor Yeye boundary dispute between Ghana and Togo. This call for action aims to foster harmony and strengthen relations among communities situated along the international border. An amicable resolution is crucial to prevent potential conflicts and ensure regional stability.
Nana Ware made his appeal during a stakeholder engagement at Dodi-Papase, part of the Commission's week-long operational assessment in the Oti Region. The assessment covered the Kadjebi and Nkwanta North districts, alongside the Nkwanta South Municipality. The Gyasehene also highlighted the need for improved mobile network connectivity in these border communities, which often face communication challenges.
This boundary dispute forms part of a broader national effort by Ghana to clearly define and manage its international borders. Ghana shares land borders with Togo, Burkina Faso, and Côte d'Ivoire, and maritime borders with these same nations. Effective boundary management is vital for national security, economic cooperation, and preventing cross-border crime. Previous disputes have sometimes led to tensions, affecting trade and social cohesion in border regions.
Major General Anthony Ntem, Commissioner General of the Ghana Boundary Commission, assured residents of the Commission's dedication to resolving the issues. He emphasized that the GhBC is mandated to delimit, demarcate, and manage Ghana’s international land, maritime, and airspace boundaries. This work relies on established treaties, protocols, and legal instruments, in collaboration with neighboring countries like Togo.
The implications of a swift and peaceful resolution are significant for both nations. It will enhance security, facilitate legitimate cross-border trade, and improve the daily lives of residents in the affected areas. Decision-makers in both Ghana and Togo will be watching the Commission's progress closely, as successful boundary management underpins regional integration efforts. Continued community engagement and cooperation will be essential for the long-term success of these initiatives.
The Kadjebi District Chief Executive, Dr. Alhaji Sam Issaka Suraj, commended the Commission for its engagement with border communities. He expressed confidence that the exercise would contribute to lasting peace and improved security along the Ghana-Togo border. Nana Amanano Mensah II, Chief of Poase-Cement and Regent of the Dodi Traditional Area, also described the engagement as timely. He called for cooperation from all stakeholders to achieve an amicable resolution.
As part of strengthening collaboration, Assembly Member for Ampeyo Electoral Area, Bright Kuffour Prempeh, and Assembly Member for Butabe/Obuase Electoral Area, Mutakilu Tsadenu, were appointed as Zonal Focal Persons. Their role is to coordinate activities between their communities and the Ghana Boundary Commission. This initiative underscores the Commission's broader strategy to promote peaceful border management and deepen public awareness regarding the protection of boundary pillars.