By Godwill Arthur-Mensah
Accra, June 19, GNA – The Ghana Boundary Commission has marked the 2026 African Border Day with a call for human-centered approaches to boundary governance and management.
In a statement issued by the Corporate Affairs Unit of the Commission, it emphasised the need to prioritise the welfare of border residents towards ensuring peace, security and sustainable development.
The celebration, held on the theme, “Strengthening Human Security along Border Communities between Ghana and Burkina Faso through Sustainable Water Access,” featured a joint durbar and commissioning of boreholes at Paga and Nakolo in the Kassena Nankana West District of the Upper East Region.
Major General Anthony Ntem, the Commissioner-General of Ghana Boundary Commission, in his remarks, underscored the need to prioritise border communities, noting that investments in water access reflect the Commission’s conviction that effective boundary management must place people at its core.
He urged residents to protect boundary pillars to safeguard Ghana’s territorial integrity and preserve peace.
“I therefore wish to appeal to all residents of border communities to assist in protecting these boundary pillars. Please, do not tamper with them, do not remove them, or undertake activities that may damage them. If you notice any damage or suspicious activity around a pillar, report it promptly to the relevant authorities,” he advised.
He indicated that protecting boundary markers was a shared responsibility in preserving peace and security.
Mr Stephen Aeke Akurugu,the District Chief Executive for Kassena Nankana West, said boundary governance was about ensuring that border communities enjoy improved access to development opportunities, social services and the conditions necessary for peaceful and productive lives.
He encouraged residents along the boundaries to continue to nurture the longstanding friendship that existed between Ghana and Burkina Faso to preserve peace in the area.
“Let us renew our commitment to building borders that connect rather than divide, borders that foster cooperation rather than conflict, and borders that serve as platforms for peace, development and shared prosperity,” he emphasised.
Madam Yvette Massadalou Sanou, the Governor of the region of Nazinon and leader of Burkina Faso delegation, underscored the need for enhanced joint border collaboration, community sensitisation, and cross-border development initiatives to deepen regional integration.
She further commended both countries for ensuring peaceful cooperation and regional integration.
Mr David Mavengere, the Senior Human Resource Management Officer of IOM-Ghana, who represented the IOM’s Chief of Mission, stated that joint border governance by Ghana and Burkina Faso required cooperation and mutual respect among communities along the borders.
He emphasised the critical role of border communities in safeguarding boundary markers, fostering peace, disseminating accurate information and encouraging cross-border collaboration.
Mr. Mavengere entreated both countries to reaffirm their shared commitment to transforming borders into bridges of peace, cooperation, development and shared prosperity
He assured all participating stakeholders of IOM’s commitment to working with all stakeholders to strengthen Ghana’s boundary governance.
Officials from Burkina Faso, the International Organization for Migration, and local leaders commended the initiative, stressing the importance of cross-border collaboration, community sensitization, and regional integration.
Other activities include health screenings and a friendly football match to foster unity among border youth.
GNA
Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Godwill Arthur-Mensah, GNA
Email: [email protected]