Ghana and Burkina Faso in talks to resolve Paga border impasse -Kassena Nankana West DCE

The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Kassena Nankana West, Stephen Aeke Akurugo, has disclosed that Ghanaian authorities are in discussions with their Burkinabe counterparts to clear Ghanaian trucks that are stranded at the Paga Border.

Truck drivers blocked the Paga Border on Friday, September 12, in protest of a new policy by Burkinabe authorities that bars vehicles with lengths exceeding 54 feet and heights exceeding 13 feet. The action halted traffic from Burkina Faso and disrupted business activities in the area.

In an interview on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Friday, September 19, Akurugo said engagements with Burkinabe authorities have already taken place to address the situation.

“The Burkina Faso officials came and met us; we had a good conversation, and they promised to relay our concerns to their higher authorities and give us feedback.”

“The Upper East Regional Minister came, and we engaged the drivers and also had conversations with the Burkinabe authorities. Again, on Monday, I went with the security agencies and met the Burkina Faso officials, and they responded that high-level engagements are being held to get a solution.” He explained.

The DCE expressed concern that a prolonged standoff could have adverse effects on both economies, particularly in the movement of essential goods.

“It will affect the movement of goods across the country. Some of the drivers are carrying perishable goods, and it is possible that there will be a loss of revenue. So if it continues, which I hope it doesn’t, it will affect both countries.” He cautioned.

Akurugo noted that the specific reasons behind Burkina Faso’s new trucking policy are yet to be communicated, but assured that the ongoing dialogue would lead to a resolution and the clearance of the stranded vehicles.

Mike 105.3FM | Navrongo | David Adapuna

Maseda Spices