Ghana and Togo have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cross-border trade and improving operations at the Akanu-Noepe Joint Border Post, following a high-level ministerial meeting and handing-over ceremony.
The meeting, supported by TradeMark Africa, brought together officials from both governments, members of the National Trade Facilitation Committees, and representatives of border management agencies to deliberate on measures aimed at improving trade efficiency and reducing delays at the strategic crossing between the two countries.
Leading the Ghanaian delegation was Mrs Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, while the Togolese delegation was headed by Badanam Patoki, Togo’s Minister of Economy and Strategic Monitoring in charge of Commerce.
The engagement culminated in a symbolic handing-over ceremony intended to reinforce operational cooperation and deepen collaboration in the management of the joint border facility.
Mrs Ofosu-Adjare underscored the importance of strong collaboration between the two neighbouring countries, to ensure the smooth functioning of the border post.
She noted that efficient border management was crucial to reducing trade bottlenecks, lowering the cost of doing business, and strengthening regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework.
The Minister said Ghana remained committed to working closely with its Togolese counterparts to streamline customs procedures, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and deploy modern digital systems to accelerate the clearance of goods and travelers at the border.
She also expressed appreciation to TradeMark Africa and its partners for their support in enhancing facilities at the border for the benefit of traders, particularly women engaged in cross-border commerce.
Mr Patoki in his address, emphasised that the Akanu-Noepe Joint Border Post represented a major step toward deepening economic cooperation between Ghana and Togo.
He said coordinated border management and stronger institutional collaboration were essential to improving the trading environment for businesses operating along the corridor.
He noted that improved infrastructure and harmonised border procedures would not only reduce delays but also create greater economic opportunities for traders, especially small and medium-sized enterprises engaged in cross-border trade.
The Akanu–Noepe Joint Border Post is expected to play a key role in facilitating trade along the busy West African transport corridor, improving the movement of goods and strengthening economic ties between Ghana and Togo.
It is expected that recommendations from the joint border management team will be submitted to the two sector ministers within two weeks for consideration and approval to ensure a smooth management and maintenance system at the facility.
