Ghana and Togo have reaffirmed their commitment to improving cross-border trade and streamlining operations at the Akanu–Noepe Joint Border Post following a ministerial meeting and handing-over ceremony held on March 16.
The engagement, supported by TradeMark Africa, brought together government officials, trade facilitation committees and border agencies from both countries to discuss measures to reduce delays and improve efficiency at one of the region’s strategic crossings.
Ghana’s delegation was led by Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, while Badanam Patoki, Togo’s Minister for Economy and Strategic Monitoring in charge of Commerce, headed the Togolese side.
The meeting culminated in a symbolic handing-over ceremony aimed at strengthening operational cooperation and deepening joint management of the facility.
Ofosu-Adjare said closer collaboration between the two countries is essential to ensure the smooth functioning of the border post, noting that efficient border management can help reduce trade bottlenecks, lower business costs and support regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
She said Ghana would continue working with Togo to streamline customs processes, improve inter-agency coordination and deploy digital systems to speed up the clearance of goods and travellers. She also acknowledged the role of TradeMark Africa and its partners in supporting infrastructure upgrades at the border, particularly to benefit small-scale traders.
Patoki said the Akanu–Noepe Joint Border Post represents a significant step toward strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries, adding that coordinated border management is key to improving the business environment along the corridor.
He said better infrastructure and harmonised procedures would help reduce delays and expand opportunities for businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises engaged in cross-border trade. The Akanu–Noepe facility is expected to play a central role in facilitating trade along the West African transport corridor, improving the movement of goods and reinforcing economic ties between Ghana and Togo.
Officials said recommendations from the joint border team will be submitted to the two ministers within two weeks for consideration, as both countries seek to establish a more efficient system for managing and maintaining the facility.
