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 senior government officials, members of the National Trade Facilitation Committees, and representatives of border management agencies from both countries to deliberate on measures aimed at improving trade efficiency and reducing delays at the strategic crossing.
Leading the Ghanaian delegation was the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, while the Togolese delegation was headed by the Minister for Economy and Strategic Monitoring in charge of Commerce, Badanam Patoki.
The engagement culminated in a symbolic handing-over ceremony intended to reinforce operational cooperation and deepen collaboration in the joint management of the border facility.
In her remarks, Madam Ofosu-Adjare underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between the two neighbouring countries in ensuring the smooth functioning of the border post.
She noted that efficient border management remains critical to reducing trade bottlenecks, lowering the cost of doing business, and enhancing competitiveness within the sub-region.
She added that Ghana remains 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.
These efforts, she said, are essential to fully leverage opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The Trade Minister also expressed appreciation to TradeMark Africa and its partners for their continued support in upgrading infrastructure and operational systems at the border, noting that such interventions are particularly beneficial to small-scale traders, especially women engaged in cross-border commerce.
In his address, Mr. Patoki emphasised that the Akanu–Noepe Joint Border Post represents a major step toward deepening economic cooperation between Ghana and Togo.
He stressed that coordinated border management and stronger institutional collaboration are essential to improving the trading environment along the corridor.
According to him, ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and harmonise border procedures will not only reduce delays but also create expanded economic opportunities for businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises that depend on efficient 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 services while strengthening economic ties between the two countries.
It is expected that a joint technical team will submit recommendations to the two sector ministers within the next two weeks for consideration and approval, with a focus on ensuring efficient management, sustainability, and maintenance of the facility.
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