Leaders from Ghana's Wa West District and Burkina Faso's Batié Commune have committed to transforming their shared border. They want to create a hub for economic integration and development. This agreement was made at a recent meeting in Wechiau. The meeting is part of the SKBoWa project. This project is supported by a German development agency. Its goal is to improve peace and social ties in border areas.
National borders are seen as artificial divisions. They should not block cultural and family links between communities. This viewpoint was shared by Razack Yamusah Abdulai Issahaku. He spoke for the Chief of Wechiau. He noted that the Black Volta River connects both populations. It's a shared resource. Animals also cross borders freely. Elephants and hippos do not need passports. He argued that humans should also share land.
Security agencies should increase intelligence sharing. This cooperation is more effective than force. Mr. Issahaku emphasized this point. Wa West District Chief Executive Richard Wulo stated that relations are built on history. Shared family ties and trade are also important. He called for unity. This is crucial due to rising insecurity in West Africa.
The SKBoWa project focuses on key areas. These include inclusive dialogue and community projects. A soccer tournament also fosters youth engagement. A soccer for peace event was mentioned. The Chief of Batié, Dah Sanhoulo, also highlighted cooperation. He praised the Burkinabe delegation's commitment. They crossed the Black Volta River to attend. Joint border patrols and better communication are needed. This will help resolve local disputes quickly.
Both sides agreed on sharing social services. Unrestricted access to healthcare and education is desired. "If a clinic is full in Wechiau, Batié mothers should enter," said Mr. Issahaku. "If Batié has seeds that survive drought, Wechiau farmers should plant them." Effective border management should maximize shared opportunities.
The SKBoWa Project Components Manager for GIZ, Dorcas Affi, reiterated the project's aim. It is to strengthen friendship and peaceful coexistence. Dialogue and joint activities like football tournaments are tools. They help prevent conflicts and promote stability.
Participants formed working groups. They identified challenges. They proposed collaborative actions. Recommendations are expected to guide future cooperation. Issues include social cohesion and border harassment. Local economic development is also a focus. The resolutions will shape the next phase of joint efforts.