By Clara Mlano
A week-long field exercise by the Ghana Boundary Commission has confirmed concerns along Ghana’s western frontier in the Bono Region, where damaged boundary pillars and neglected communities are raising fresh questions about border management and human security.
The team, led by the Commissioner-General, Major General Anthony Ntem, conducted detailed inspections across border communities in the Dormaa Central and Jaman South municipalities.
Their findings largely подтверд earlier reports from officers of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority and the Ghana Immigration Service that some of the country’s international boundary markers are in poor condition.
While many of the pillars remain intact, several have been displaced, defaced or broken. Officials attribute the damage to a combination of human activity and environmental factors, a situation that could complicate boundary demarcation and security.
Although the Boundary Commissions of Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire are currently undertaking a joint reaffirmation exercise to replace boundary pillars along their shared land border, the exercise has not yet extended to the affected municipalities. Authorities say the identified issues are expected to be addressed during Phase Three of the exercise.
Beyond the condition of the boundary markers, the exercise also highlighted the living conditions in border communities. The Commission’s human security needs assessment revealed that many of these settlements lack basic social infrastructure, underscoring the challenges faced by residents living along the country’s frontiers.
The team engaged a wide range of stakeholders, including regional authorities, Municipal Chief Executives, members of Municipal Security Councils, traditional leaders and residents.
From Gonokrom to Kofi Badukrom, Kwamesiekrom, Drobo, Batia, Atuna and Kwameprakrom, a common concern emerged: communities are eager for development despite their strategic location along Ghana’s borders.
The Commission says the findings highlight the urgent need to not only maintain boundary infrastructure but also address development gaps in border areas, which remain critical to both national security and local livelihoods.
