Accra: Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, has expressed concerns over the lack of clear internal boundaries, which he says is leading to numerous disputes at the traditional, district, region, and constituency levels. He emphasized that the establishment of constituencies and boundaries without adequate input from key institutions like the Statistical Service, the Electoral Commission, and the Lands Commission has hindered effective delineation and management of these areas.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ibrahim highlighted the potential challenges arising from these oversights, including difficulties in accurately defining boundaries, ensuring proper representation, and managing resources. These issues, he suggested, are contributing to widespread disputes, underscoring the need for more comprehensive efforts to address the situation.
Mr. Ibrahim made these remarks during a courtesy visit by the Ghana Boundary Commission (GBC) to the Ministry in Accra, where discussions centered on national interests and congratulations on his ministerial appointment. He raised concerns about the reliance on external funding, such as from the Economic Community Of West Africa States (ECOWAS), for boundary management. He advocated for internal solutions and announced plans to provide facilities to better manage Ghana's boundaries.
The Minister also noted the critical need to address local economic activities along the boundaries, urging the Committee on Local Governments and the Independent Constitutional Body Committee to incorporate border management into the approval process for the District Assemblies Common Fund.
Major General Emmanuel Kotia, the Commissioner General of GBC, observed that natural causes have displaced boundary pillars over the years, necessitating a reaffirmation of international boundaries. This process would involve agreements on boundary pillar coordinates with neighboring countries and the construction of new markers.
The Commissioner General emphasized the importance of collaboration between affected districts and the GBC to resolve boundary issues. He advocated for enhanced cooperation to support local economic development, particularly in agricultural areas, to improve livelihoods and address perceptions of deprivation, fostering sustainable growth and well-being in these districts.
