Ghana and Togo have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cross-border trade and improving operations at the Akanu–Noepe Joint Border Post.
The commitment was made at a high-level ministerial meeting attended by government officials, members of the National Trade Facilitation Committees, and representatives of border management agencies of both countries.
The meeting discussed measures to improve trade efficiency and reduce delays at the strategic border crossing between Ghana and Togo.
The Ghanaian delegation was led by Madam Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, while the Togolese delegation was headed by Mr Badanam Patoki, Minister for Economy and Strategic Monitoring in charge of Commerce.
The engagement ended with a symbolic handing-over ceremony aimed at strengthening operational cooperation and deepening collaboration in the management of the joint border facility.
Madam Ofosu-Adjare underscored the importance of strong collaboration between the two neighbouring countries to ensure the smooth functioning of the border post.
She said 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 travellers at the border.
Madam Ofosu-Adjare expressed appreciation to TradeMark Africa and its partners for supporting improvements to facilities at the border to benefit traders, particularly women.
Mr Patoki said the Akanu–Noepe Joint Border Post represented an important step towards 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.
Mr Patoki noted that improved infrastructure and harmonised border procedures would reduce delays and create greater economic opportunities for traders, especially small and medium-sized enterprises engaged in cross-border commerce.
The Akanu–Noepe Joint Border Post is expected to play a key role in facilitating trade along the West African transport corridor and strengthening economic ties between Ghana and Togo.
A joint border team is expected to submit recommendations to the two sector ministers within two weeks for consideration and approval towards ensuring effective management and maintenance of the border facility.
