Ghana and Togo have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cross-border trade and improving operations at the Akanu–Noepe Joint Border Post following a high-level ministerial meeting and handing-over ceremony held on Monday, March 16, 2026.
The meeting, supported by TradeMark Africa, brought together officials from both governments, members of the National Trade Facilitation Committees, and representatives of border management agencies to discuss practical measures aimed at improving trade efficiency and reducing delays at the strategic crossing.
Leading the Ghanaian delegation was the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, while the Togolese delegation was headed by Badanam Patoki.
The engagement culminated in a symbolic handing-over ceremony, underscoring renewed operational cooperation and a shared commitment to strengthening the management of the joint border facility.
In her remarks, Ofosu-Adjare stressed the importance of strong bilateral collaboration in ensuring the smooth functioning of the border post.
She noted that efficient border management is critical to reducing trade bottlenecks, lowering the cost of doing business, and boosting regional commerce under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
She further reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to working closely with its Togolese counterparts to streamline customs procedures, enhance inter-agency coordination, and deploy modern digital systems to speed up the clearance of goods and travellers.
The Minister also expressed appreciation to TradeMark Africa and its partners for their continued support in upgrading border infrastructure, particularly to benefit small-scale traders, including women.
In his address, Patoki described the Akanu–Noepe Joint Border Post as a significant milestone in deepening economic cooperation between the two neighbouring countries. He highlighted that coordinated border management and stronger institutional collaboration are essential to improving the business environment along the corridor.
He added that improved infrastructure and harmonised procedures would not only reduce delays but also expand economic opportunities for traders, especially small and medium-sized enterprises engaged in cross-border trade.
The Akanu–Noepe Joint Border Post is expected to play a pivotal role in facilitating trade along the busy West African transport corridor, enhancing the movement of goods and strengthening economic ties between Ghana and Togo.
Meanwhile, it was agreed that recommendations from the joint border team will be submitted to the two sector ministers within two weeks for consideration and approval, aimed at ensuring a more efficient and sustainable management system for the facility.
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
