Upper East Region: The African Security Sector Network, in partnership with the University of Cambridge, has facilitated a stakeholder engagement in the Upper East Region to strengthen collaboration and build trust among security agencies, traders, and local authorities.
According to Ghana News Agency, the African Security Sector Network is a pan-African non-governmental organisation dedicated to improving democratic governance and oversight of the security sector across the continent. The pilot initiative, funded by the Cambridge-Africa ALBORADA Research Fund, seeks to foster dialogue and cooperation among key actors whose collaboration is crucial for maintaining security and facilitating smooth trading activities in the region, particularly along the borders.
The engagement brought together leaders from various security services, including the Ghana Police Service, Ghana Immigration Service, and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, as well as traders, drivers, non-governmental organisations, civil society organisations, and local government authorities.
Dr Emmanuel Sowatey, Executive Director of the African Security Sector Network speaking to participants noted that the initiative aimed to bridge the gap between security agencies and the trading community and deepened their working relationship. He emphasised the significant roles both the informal sector and the security sector play in promoting national development, ranging from employment and revenue generation to food security, and stressed the importance of strengthening collaboration between the two.
‘The Upper East Region borders northern Togo and southern Burkina Faso, positioning it strategically within the Sahelian corridor. Developments in these neighbouring countries affect Ghana significantly. We, therefore, need to foster a healthy relationship among security agencies, traders, and local authorities,’ he said.
Dr Sowatey noted that the engagement provided a conducive platform for both security personnel and traders to voice their challenges, helping to promote mutual understanding, confidence, and trust.
Mr Roland Atanga Ayoo, Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive, acknowledged the region’s strategic position as a commercial hub, noting the critical role traders play in boosting the local economy. He stressed the importance of addressing all barriers to enhance their operations. ‘For development to thrive, there must be trust, mutual respect, and effective communication between the trading community and the security apparatus,’ he said.
Deputy Superintendent of Police, Jackson Kportufe, the Zebilla District Police Commander, stated that lack of education has contributed to misconceptions about the operations of security agencies, particularly the police. He expressed hope that the engagement would help build trust between security agencies and the trading community for improved working relationship to enhance trade.
Mr Dramani Amantana, Officer-In-Charge at the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority at the Kulungugu border, said the forum provided a platform to address challenges faced by traders, which he believed will enhance collaboration and boost trade.
Madam Theresa Atiah, a trader, praised the initiative, stating that it had helped to empower traders with knowledge about the operations of security agencies, especially those stationed at borders and checkpoints. This, she said, would help foster cordial relationships among all stakeholders.