Ministry of Foreign Affairs has revealed plans to increase its electricity exports to Burkina Faso as part of efforts to deepen economic and energy cooperation with its northern neighbor.
Briefing Parliament, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized Ghana’s commitment to regional integration, noting that the expansion of energy exports aligns with broader efforts to strengthen bilateral ties.
He also revealed that Ghana is considering introducing a direct Accra-Ouagadougou flight, with interest expressed by a local airline. “Ghana continues to promote and protect the interests of nationals living in these three nations,” he stated, referencing Ghana’s engagement with the Alliance of Sahelian States (AES).
On the status of citizens from AES countries, Ablakwa clarified that “ECOWAS has not placed any ban on any national” and that the free movement protocol remains in effect. Although the AES passport has not yet been officially introduced, he assured that “they can come to Ghana, they are free to travel, but the AES has not been done.”
The minister stressed that ECOWAS has not restricted travel for individuals from these nations, despite their withdrawal from the regional bloc. However, some MPs have urged the government to exercise caution in aligning too closely with the military-led states, given Ghana’s firm stance on upholding AU principles, including opposition to unconstitutional changes in government.
Addressing security concerns, Ablakwa highlighted the growing threats of terrorism, organized crime, and instability spilling over from the Sahel. “Terrorism threatens not alone the Sahel states but also countries further down the coast,” he warned, adding that Ghana is prioritizing strengthened collaboration to address these challenges.
As part of its diplomatic efforts, President Mahama has appointed former National Security Coordinator, Lt. Col. Larry Gbevlo-Lartey (retd), as Special Envoy to the AES. “There is a need to continue dialogue,” Ablakwa noted, reaffirming Ghana’s leading role in fostering peace, stability, and economic development across the region.
