Elubo border security officers lament deteriorating state of corridor linking Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire

Security agencies at the Elubo border are raising concerns over the deteriorating state of the corridor connecting Ghana to Côte d’Ivoire, warning that its collapse could cost the country billions of cedis in revenue.

The corridor is a bridge over the Tano River, which plays a crucial role in facilitating trade between the two nations.

However, its structural integrity is rapidly weakening as the river’s frequent overflows continue to erode its foundations.

Border security officials fear that if urgent action is not taken, Ghana risks losing a critical trade route that contributes significantly to the national economy.

Hence, a call on government to intervene immediately to prevent a collapse of the corridor that could disrupt imports, exports, and cross-border commerce.

Assistant Commissioner Dan Lewis Mania of the Customs Division laments that attempts to preserve the corridor have been futile.

“We have been drawing the attention of duty bearers to the gradual weakening of the bridge; officials from Ghana Highways have come to look at it; however, much needs to be done immediately because this is the main corridor that links us to Côte d’Ivoire and neighboring countries, and if help does not arrive on time, we risk losing revenue,” he said.

He revealed that as a stop gap measure, Boarder Security agency Committe (BOSEC) has halted heavy trucks from plying on the bridge and has also halted parking of trucks on the bridge as they wait for help.
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To boost border trade, Assistant Commissioner Dan Lewis Mania recommended to the government to lower tariffs and eliminate the restriction on border trade of vegetable cooking oils.

Assistant Commissioner Joshua Krakue of Immigration of Elubo Sector Command on his part called for the quick implementation of the 24 hours economy policy at the boarder to promote commerce.

“Currently the boarder operates within 12 hours and the volume of trade has increased, if you come here after 6 o’clock you will see lot of vehicles parked here because the boarder has been closed.

“So, we are urging government to extend the opening hours of the border from 12 hours and if possible, make it 24 hours to promote trade,” he advised.