Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has reassured Parliament that ECOWAS has not placed any travel restrictions on nationals of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) despite their exit from the regional bloc.
Addressing concerns over the status of AES passports, he clarified, “They can come to Ghana, they are free to travel, but the AES has not been done,” stressing that ECOWAS protocols on free movement remain intact.
His remarks come amid growing apprehension over Ghana’s engagement with the military-led governments of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, as some MPs urge cautious diplomacy to safeguard Ghana’s national interests.
Highlighting Ghana’s security priorities, Ablakwa emphasized the urgent need for stronger regional cooperation to combat terrorism and cross-border crimes.
“Terrorism threatens not just the Sahel States but also countries further down the coast,” he warned, underscoring Ghana’s commitment to enhancing security partnerships with Burkina Faso and other neighboring countries.
To further bolster Ghana’s role in maintaining regional stability, President Mahama has appointed former National Security Coordinator Lt. Col. Larry Gbevlo-Lartey (retd) as a special envoy to the AES, tasked with deepening security ties and fostering diplomatic engagement.
Beyond security, Ghana is exploring economic collaborations with the AES nations. Ablakwa announced plans to increase electricity exports to Burkina Faso and revealed discussions on establishing a direct Accra-Ouagadougou flight, with a Ghanaian airline expressing interest.
These initiatives align with President Mahama’s broader strategy to rebuild diplomatic relations with the Sahel states, following tensions between ECOWAS and the AES over demands for a return to democratic rule.
“Ghana will continue to play a leading role in collective efforts to promote peace, stability, and economic development on the African continent,” Ablakwa assured.
