The Ghana Boundary Commission (GhBC) has completed a five-day operational assessment of border communities in the Oti Region, where residents reiterated urgent calls for improved roads, healthcare, telecommunications, and security. This assessment, led by Commissioner-General Major General Anthony Ntem, took place from July 27 to July 31, covering the Kadjebi District, Nkwanta South Municipality, and Nkwanta North District.
The exercise formed part of the Commission's broader efforts to strengthen boundary governance, enhance border security, and deepen engagement with communities along Ghana's eastern frontier. It also aimed to assess the development and human security challenges faced by residents. The mission included stakeholder consultations, community forums, inspections of selected border posts, and evaluations of International Boundary Pillars (IBPs).
This initiative aligns with Ghana's ongoing commitment to regional stability and economic development, particularly in border areas often underserved by national infrastructure. The Oti Region, like many border regions, plays a critical role in cross-border trade and security. Addressing these infrastructure gaps is crucial for integrating these communities into the national economy and preventing illicit activities.
During engagements in the Kadjebi District, Major General Ntem and his delegation met residents of Ampeyoo, Ahamansu, and Butabe at Dodi Papaso. Later, in the Nkwanta South Municipality, Municipal Chief Executive Joseph Awal Abubakari Antwi joined discussions with traditional authorities, assembly officials, and residents of Dadiase, Kue, and Chillinga. These discussions focused on border security, cross-border cooperation, boundary management, and socio-economic challenges.
Residents used these platforms to highlight significant infrastructure deficits affecting their daily lives. Nana Amanfo Monfakye I, the Dadiase Amankrado, lamented poor mobile network connectivity, which hinders contacting security agencies during emergencies. Representatives from Kue echoed similar concerns regarding telecommunications.
In Chillinga, residents appealed for a motorable road connecting their community to Nkwanta. They explained that farmers and beekeepers currently walk nearly four hours to access transport services for their produce. They also requested improvements in healthcare, education, market infrastructure, and security, deeming these essential for improving livelihoods and accelerating development.
The assessment concluded in the Nkwanta North District, where Major General Ntem and District Chief Executive Dordoe Kudjoe Isaiah engaged traditional authorities, assembly officials, security agencies, and residents of Tinjase. Discussions centered on security along the Ghana–Togo boundary, the condition of International Boundary Pillars, cross-border cooperation, and human security concerns.
Community members in Tinjase specifically appealed to the government to expedite the construction of the Kpassa–Tinjase road, which leads to the Tinjase border crossing point. They argued that improved road infrastructure would enhance accessibility and stimulate economic activity. They also requested access to potable water and improved healthcare facilities.
Responding to the concerns, Major General Anthony Ntem praised the resilience and patriotism of border residents. He assured communities that the Ghana Boundary Commission would engage relevant ministries, departments, agencies, metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies, as well as development partners, to facilitate interventions addressing their concerns. This commitment underscores the government's recognition of the strategic importance of these communities.
Beyond community engagements, the Commissioner-General and his team inspected sections of the Ghana–Togo international boundary. They assessed the condition of several International Boundary Pillars to enhance the Commission's operational understanding and identify maintenance needs. The delegation also visited selected border posts, interacting with officers from the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority and the Ghana Immigration Service. Discussions focused on operational challenges and measures to strengthen border security while facilitating legitimate cross-border movement and trade. The GhBC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Ghana's international boundaries and promoting socio-economic development through sustained collaboration.