Mishandling of Mali, Burkina, Niger could spark food insecurity-GUTA 

By Daniel NONOR , Accra

The Ghana Union of Traders Associations (GUTA) has issued a stark warning about the severe food security and cross-border implications for Ghana if Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger proceed with their decision to exit the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Dr. Joseph Obeng, President of GUTA, expressed concern that trade disruptions resulting from border restrictions imposed by these three countries could have dire consequences for food security in Ghana.

Dr. Obeng highlighted the significant volume of food imported from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger into Ghana, emphasizing that any impediments to the free movement of goods and services could lead to critical food security challenges.

He stressed the importance of considering the founding principles of ECOWAS, which aim to leverage the population of the sub-region for the purpose of trade and economic enhancement among member states.

“We should be mindful of the fact that one major reason for the formation of the regional bloc is to take advantage of the number of people in the sub-region for the purpose of trading to enhance economies of member states,” said Dr. Obeng.

Acknowledging the substantial volume of goods Ghana exports to its neighboring countries, he underscored that Ghana also relies on these countries for a considerable portion of its food supplies, including tomatoes, onions, and other staple foods. Dr. Obeng proposed that Ghana takes a proactive approach by bypassing ECOWAS and leveraging existing bilateral relationships with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to ensure trade continuity.

“We also know that member states have their own bilateral relations with each other. Therefore, as a country, the first step or strategy to use is for Ghana to bypass ECOWAS and use the already existing good relationship with the three countries and find an immediate solution to restore trust and confidence as a catalyst to unify all member states,” he suggested.

Dr. Obeng emphasized Ghana’s responsibility to create a conducive bilateral environment to keep trade channels open with the three countries.

 He expressed concerns about potential trade consequences for the regional bloc if Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger decide to form a trade alliance among themselves.

“If care is not taken, the three countries can do exactly what ECOWAS seeks to achieve. The three of them can join hands, trade among themselves, and can be richer because they have nothing to lose. They might even attract other nations to them,” he added.

GUTA’s warning underscores the delicate diplomatic situation and potential economic fallout that could arise if ECOWAS members decide to pursue separate paths.

The need for diplomatic tact and strategic negotiation becomes crucial to mitigate adverse effects on trade, food security, and regional stability.