Don’t use Heads of State to resolve exit of 3 ECOWAS members- Prof. Antwi-Danso
The Dean of the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Prof. Vladimir Antwi-Danso, has issued a warning against using heads of states to negotiate the exit of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger from ECOWAS.
Prof. Antwi-Danso expressed that he is not surprised by the exit of these three countries from ECOWAS.
However, he expressed concerns that if ECOWAS fails to take diplomatic steps to address the situation, the three countries may form another union, and their integration process could be expedited.
Prof. Antwi-Danso noted that these countries share a common language, borders, engage in trade among themselves, and the possibility of other francophone countries wanting to join could further accelerate the integration.
In emphasizing his caution, Prof. Antwi-Danso warned against using any head of state to negotiate the stalemate.
He described the visa-free policy as a positive move toward creating a common market.
He highlighted the drawbacks of visa requirements, citing high costs in terms of both money and time for individuals applying for visas.
Additionally, he pointed out that visa restrictions result in missed opportunities for the local service economy and for trade.
Prof. Antwi-Danso emphasized that the visa-free policy contributes to the fulfillment of aspirations for a prosperous, integrated continent where people can develop their potential without being hindered by overly restrictive visa regimes.
However, he also stressed the importance of implementing measures to ensure that the policy does not negatively affect Ghana’s security and economy.
In discussing the challenges, Prof. Antwi-Danso noted that the integration process has been somewhat elitist, excluding a significant portion of the population.
He highlighted examples of countries like Rwanda, Benin, The Gambia, and Seychelles that have already eliminated all visa requirements for African travelers.
