Government is in active discussions with authorities in Burkina Faso to safeguard the lives and operations of Ghanaian tomato traders following recent deadly attacks on cross-border traders.
Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, revealed in an interview on the Joy Super Morning Show that Ghana’s security agencies are coordinating with their counterparts in Burkina Faso to establish measures that ensure traders can move safely across the border.
“Yesterday, I had a brief meeting with my colleague, the Deputy Minister of Interior, and we had a tete-a-tete about it,” Dumelo stated. “His ministry is in talks with the security personnel on the Burkina Faso side to give some of the tomato traders formal security.”
He emphasized that Ghana’s security jurisdiction ends at the national border, leaving the protection of traders in Burkina Faso to authorities in Ouagadougou. This makes cross-border collaboration essential for the safety of Ghanaian traders.
The ongoing engagement aims to develop a structured system allowing traders to conduct their business without fear of attacks. Dumelo added, “That’s the kind of talks that we are into. Hopefully, in the next couple of days, we will have a clear road map.”
The Deputy Minister’s comments follow a series of terrorist attacks in northern Burkina Faso that reportedly resulted in the deaths of several Ghanaian tomato traders and injuries to others. The incidents have raised alarm among farmers, traders, and civil society organizations, prompting calls for stronger protection for Ghanaians involved in cross-border trade.
Tomato trading between Ghana and Burkina Faso remains a key source of livelihood for hundreds of traders, particularly in northern Ghana, where traders frequently cross the border to purchase produce. Dumelo noted that while the Ministry of Interior leads the security discussions, his ministry is focused on safeguarding the interests of farmers and traders.
He stressed that restoring confidence among traders is a priority, highlighting the broader economic implications of these attacks. “We want them to be able to trade and come back safely. That is the focus of these engagements,” Dumelo said, adding that protecting traders is crucial not only for livelihoods but also for ensuring food supply and price stability in Ghana.
The government’s efforts come amid heightened concerns about the risks faced by cross-border traders, and authorities are working to establish practical measures that will provide visible security and reassurance. Ghanaian stakeholders remain hopeful that the cooperation between the two countries will yield concrete solutions to safeguard traders and sustain the vital cross-border tomato trade.