Addressing Boundary Disputes in Ghana: A Call for Clarity and Collaboration
Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister for Local Government, addresses issues of boundary disputes in Ghana stemming from unclear internal boundaries. He calls for improved management and local economic activities. Major General Emmanuel Kotia of the Ghana Boundary Commission highlights the need for collaboration and reaffirmation of international boundaries to aid local development.
Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, has expressed concern regarding the unclear internal boundaries in Ghana, which have led to traditional disputes across various districts and constituencies. He highlighted that boundaries were often established without adequate consideration for key institutions like the Statistical Service, Electoral Commission, and Lands Commission, which hampers effective boundary delineation and management.
The Minister pointed out that these oversights could pose significant challenges in accurately defining boundaries, ensuring proper representation, and managing resources, subsequently resulting in disputes. He emphasized the need for improved efforts in boundary management to mitigate these issues.
During a courtesy call from the Ghana Boundary Commission (GBC) in Accra, Mr. Ibrahim lamented the reliance on international funding, specifically from ECOWAS, for boundary management, urging Ghana to seek sustainable internal solutions. He noted the importance of enhancing local economic activities along boundaries, which necessitates immediate attention.
Moreover, Mr. Ibrahim stressed that the Committee on Local Governments and the Independent Constitutional Body Committee must play vital roles in integrating border management into the District Assemblies Common Fund formula.
Major General Emmanuel Kotia, the Commissioner General of GBC, acknowledged the displacement of boundary markers due to environmental factors such as erosion. He asserted the necessity of reaffirming international boundaries, engaging in sensitisation, agreeing on boundary pillar coordinates with neighboring countries, and constructing new boundary markers.
The Commissioner General underscored the need for collaboration in addressing boundary challenges, especially for districts adjacent to international borders. He advocated for enhanced cooperation to bolster local economic development in these communities, which would address local agricultural needs.
In conclusion, Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim has underscored the critical need to clarify and manage internal boundaries in Ghana to prevent disputes. With an emphasis on local solutions and the importance of collaboration, both the Minister and Major General Emmanuel Kotia of the GBC have highlighted the essential role of boundary management in fostering local economic development and enhancing community well-being.
Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com
