Kofi Ampeah Woode
As part of the Joint Ghana/Togo Land Boundary Re-affirmation exercise, the Ghana Boundary Commission (GhBC) and the National Land Boundary Commission of Togo, with support from Deutsche Gesellschaft fϋr Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and the African Union Border Projects (AUBP), have organized a community sensitization exercise at Agortime Ziope in the Volta Region of Ghana.
There was a community sensitization forum held for communities from both countries living along the International Boundary from Ave Dakpa to Wli Afegame, to herald the land boundary reaffirmation exercise at Wodome, in the Akatsi District of the Volta Region, on Thursday 4 May, 2023, with Ghana’s Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources – Mr Benito Owusu-Bio, as the Guest of Honour.
He said the gathering sought to educate and inform all stakeholders, on the need to maintain the two countries’ common boundaries, and seek the support of the local people, as custodians of the areas where boundaries are located.
He further stated that most of the boundary markings that define the land boundaries between Ghana and Togo have been displaced due to several factors such as erosion, tampering or outright removals, which has led to the eruption of conflicts in many communities along the international boundary line.
Describing Ghana and Togo as one people, Mr Owusu-Bio said the two should prioritise peace and foster good neighbourliness, irrespective of which side of the boundary they reside, since they have always maintained good relations through mutual respect, shared cultural and social beliefs.
Referencing a similar program held in 2022 – Phase I of the reaffirmation exercise which was launched at Aflao and Akanu, in the Ketu North District – the Deputy Minister said the joint community sensitisation programme is not new.
He concluded that the management of the common boundary is a shared responsibility, and that ensuring the success of the joint Ghana/Togo reaffirmation exercise would be the proper management of the common boundary between the two neighbours, and would ensure the overall peace, unity and security of all communities.
Leading the exercise, the National Coordinator of the GhBC – Major General Emmanuel Wekem Kotia, and the Permanent Secretary of the National Land Boundary Commission of Togo – Dr Lardja Douti, educated residents in attendance on the importance of maintaining the International Boundaries.
In attendance were; the Volta Regional Minister – Dr Archibald Yao Letsa; Member of Parliament for Agortime Ziope – Mr Charles Agbeve; Municipal and District Chief Executives for Agortime Ziope, Akatsi North, Ho, Ho West, Afadzato South and Hohoe; Members of the Akatsi District Security Council; the joint Ghana/Togo Land Boundary Reaffirmation Technical Committee; Traditional Leaders and People of Agotime Ziope.
