Heads of National Boundary Commissions from across West Africa have gathered in Accra for a landmark inaugural meeting aimed at addressing critical challenges and exploring opportunities related to shared boundaries within the sub-region.
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, said maintaining inherited boundaries is not only a legal obligation under international laws but also crucial for preserving the territorial integrity of each state. She underscored the importance of collective efforts to promote peaceful coexistence through adherence to international legal principles.
Madam Ayorkor Botchway expressed optimism that the meeting would foster partnerships essential for shaping the future of boundary infrastructure management in West Africa.
“By reaffirming our shared boundaries, we lay the groundwork for a united Africa, where cooperation transcends historical divisions.” She stated.
Effective boundary management, she asserted, is not merely necessary but forms the backbone of collective security and prosperity.
The Ghana Boundary Commission has achieved significant cooperation with neighboring countries regarding shared land and maritime boundaries. Minister Ayorkor Botchway revealed that Ghana’s Parliament is considering a new act to enhance the commission’s capacity, emphasizing the need for streamlining customs procedures, improving infrastructure, harmonizing policies, implementing joint projects, and building resilient institutions.
Despite the challenges, she stressed the importance of synchronizing country-level efforts with regional and continental actions.
Commissioner of the Ghana Boundary Commission, Major General Emmanuel Kotia, explained the rationale behind this high-level meeting.
“We need synergy among West African countries,” he said, “to find common strategies for boundary commissioners.”
He highlighted the existence of well-structured frameworks in some countries (such as Ghana and Nigeria) and the need to share expertise for effective boundary management.
Regarding the insurgency in the West African sub-region, General Kotia emphasized the necessity of a united front and specific frameworks for peace and stability.
Director-General of the Nigerian Boundary Commission, Adamu Adaji, praised the gathering, emphasizing the value of sharing experiences and integrating project commissions across West African states.
“I think this is going to be quite beneficial to the States because we’ll have the opportunity of sharing our experiences and learning from each other and it will help to integrate the various project commissions of the various states in West Africa. Well, I think that is one of the things that this kind of meeting was set out to address,” he added.
He advised that member countries have been doing so much individually, but to see how these individual achievements can be coordinated properly, also share should be the way they proceed.
The meeting which commenced today, July 9, 2024 is expected to end on Thursday, July 2024.
By Derick Botsyoe || ghanamewsonline.com.gh