President John Dramani Mahama’s recent visit to Niger and Mali is a significant step towards strengthening security and trade relations between Ghana and its West African neighbors. The visit is part of a broader tour of West Africa aimed at fostering economic cooperation and addressing regional security challenges.
During his meeting with Niger’s leader, General Abdourahame Tchiani, in Niamey, Mahama emphasized the need for cooperation in addressing regional security threats and expanding economic opportunities. The two leaders discussed efforts to tackle terrorism in the Sahel and West Africa, improve trade between their countries, and strengthen diplomatic ties.
Mahama also met with Mali’s Transitional President, General Assimi Goïta, in Bamako, where they discussed security challenges, economic partnerships, and Mali’s potential return to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The meeting was seen as a crucial step towards strengthening relations between Ghana and Mali, which have been strained in recent years.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook page, Mahama stressed the importance of regional cooperation in addressing the challenges facing West Africa. “Our discussions covered efforts to tackle terrorism in the Sahel and West Africa, improve trade between our countries, and strengthen diplomatic ties,” he said.
The President also urged ECOWAS to engage with the Alliance of Sahel States, a bloc formed by Niger, Mali, and Burkaka Faso after their exit from ECOWAS. The Alliance aims to promote regional stability and security, and Mahama’s call for ECOWAS to engage with the bloc is seen as a significant step towards promoting regional cooperation.
Ghana already has a significant trade relationship with Niger, particularly in the petroleum sector. Ghana’s export of petroleum products to Niger has seen an increase from 800,000 liters to 1.5 million liters per month. Mahama’s visit is expected to deepen this relationship and explore new opportunities for economic cooperation.
The visit is also seen as a significant step towards promoting regional integration and cooperation. West Africa is facing numerous challenges, including terrorism, poverty, and inequality, and regional cooperation is seen as crucial in addressing these challenges.
Mahama’s visit to Niger and Mali is part of a broader effort to promote regional cooperation and integration. The visit is expected to pave the way for further cooperation between Ghana and its West African neighbors, and to promote regional stability and security.
Story by: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku
