Benito Owusu-Bio, Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources
The government, through the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, has called on communities along the Ghana/Togo boundary lines to peacefully co-exist, irrespective of the side of the boundary they belong.
A Deputy Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, responsible for Lands and Forestry, Benito Owusu-Bio, made the call during the Joint Ghana/Togo Community sensitisation programme at Agortime-Kpetoe.
He stressed that rather than being barriers, the international boundary line should serve as a bridge for promoting economic and social growth in the communities.
“Ghana and Togo have always maintained good standing relations through mutual respect, shared cultural and social beliefs, and we must jointly safeguard the peace and stability of both countries,” he added.
He explained that the event sought to educate and inform all stakeholders on the need to maintain the common boundaries shared between the two countries and seek support, as custodians of the areas where boundaries are located.
Sensitisation
The Deputy Minister also pointed out that the joint community sensitisation programme was not a new one, but rather part of a series of sensitisation programmes being undertaken jointly by Ghana and Togo.
He revealed that, last year, Phase One of this programme was successfully launched at Aflao and Akanu in the Ketu North District, saying “today, the two Boundary Commissions are here to continue with this important exercise”.
“The fact remains that most of the boundary markings that define the land boundaries between Ghana and Togo had been displaced due to several factors such as erosion, tampering or outright removals. Effects of these have been the eruption of conflicts in many communities along the international boundary line,” he stated.
He stressed that the management of the common boundary is a shared responsibility and should be embraced by all. He urged that all should ensure that boundary markers are in good shape, adding “the role does not reside in both Commissions of Togo alone but rather every person”
Commendation
Mr Owusu-Bio commended both Commissions for their dedication towards ensuring the proper management and safeguarding of the Ghana/Togo land boundary. He also encouraged them to continue with the good work.
He also thanked the leaders and people of all communities along the Ave Dakpa – Wli Afegame stretch, saying “the representation from the two sides clearly demonstrates their commitment for ensuring the success of the joint Ghana/Togo reaffirmation exercise to be conducted”.
He entreated the traditional rulers, opinion leaders and residents living along the international boundary line to accord members of the joint Ghana/Togo Land Boundary Reaffirmation Technical Committee maximum support and cooperation.
“I ask that you receive them as one of your own, be proactive in identifying issues regarding the boundary line and communicate with them freely,” he advised.
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