Internal Boundary Clarity Vital to Resolving Disputes in Ghana

Minister Ahmed Ibrahim addressed the challenges posed by unclear internal boundaries in Ghana, leading to disputes across various sectors. He highlighted the need for better institutional capacity and internal solutions for boundary management. Major General Emmanuel Kotia pointed out issues with existing boundary markers and the need for enhanced collaboration to support local economic development in affected districts.

Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, emphasized that ambiguous internal boundaries are leading to disputes across traditional, district, regional, and constituency lines. He indicated that the establishment of constituencies and boundaries lacked adequate consideration of the capabilities of vital institutions such as the Statistical Service, the Electoral Commission, and the Lands Commission, which are crucial for effective boundary delineation and management.

Furthermore, the Minister warned that this oversight risks challenges in accurately defining boundaries, ensuring proper representation, and managing resources, which ultimately fuels disputes in various sectors. He stressed the urgent need for further initiatives in this area during a courtesy visit by the Ghana Boundary Commission (GBC) at the Ministry in Accra to discuss national concerns and congratulate the Minister.

Mr. Ibrahim also raised questions regarding the need for Ghana to depend on external funding from the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) for boundary protection, proposing that sustainable internal solutions should be pursued. He pledged to enhance facilities for effective boundary management and noted that fostering local economic activities along borders requires immediate action.

The Minister called upon the Committee on Local Governments and the Independent Constitutional Body Committee to work alongside Parliament to ensure proper incorporation of border management in the District Assemblies Common Fund approval process.

Major General Emmanuel Kotia, Commissioner General of the GBC, reported that several boundary pillars have been displaced due to environmental factors like erosion. He underscored the importance of reaffirming international boundaries through collaboration, which involves educating communities, reaching agreements on boundary coordinates with neighboring countries, and constructing new boundary markers.

Commissioner Kotia advocated for improved collaboration to bolster local economic development, especially in districts facing agricultural challenges related to boundary issues. He asserted that such cooperation would enhance livelihoods, rejuvenate communities, and mitigate feelings of deprivation, thereby promoting sustainable economic growth and improving regional well-being.

In conclusion, the need for clear internal boundaries in Ghana is paramount to avoid disputes and ensure effective governance. Minister Ahmed Ibrahim highlighted the importance of internal solutions, while Major General Emmanuel Kotia emphasized collaboration for boundary management. Both underscore the necessity of incorporating border issues into local governance to support economic development and community well-being, as Ghana navigates its boundary management challenges.

Original Source: www.ghanabusinessnews.com