Aflao is a Major Gateway to Regional Trade:Not Just a Border Town — Volta Regional Minister

The Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, has underscored the strategic economic significance of Aflao, emphasizing that the town serves as a critical national and regional gateway to trade rather than a mere geographical border post. Speaking at the ECOWAS National Citizen Engagement and Public Sensitization campaign held at the Aflao Border, the Minister highlighted Aflao’s vital role in unlocking seamless cross-border commerce across West Africa, reinforcing the regional bloc's core vision of economic integration and shared prosperity.

​Hon. James Gunu noted that Aflao stands as one of the busiest land borders in West Africa, linking Ghana directly to Togo and bridging trade routes across the entire Abidjan-Lagos corridor. He stressed that recognizing Aflao's true status as an economic hub requires strategic investments in border infrastructure, modern customs technology, and streamlined trade facilitation measures. According to the Minister, maximizing the border's capacity will significantly boost revenue generation, enhance regional security, and drive sustainable economic development for local communities and the country at large.

​Addressing border officials, traders, local governance leaders, and community representatives, the Regional Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing the goals of the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS). He highlighted ongoing efforts to eliminate non-tariff barriers, minimize bureaucratic delays, and curb harassment at border checkpoints. Hon. Gunu emphasized that smooth, hassle-free trade movements are essential to empowering small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), particularly women entrepreneurs who form the backbone of cross-border commerce in the region.

​In his closing remarks, Hon. James Gunu urged local residents, traditional authorities, and security personnel to foster stronger cooperation in facilitating lawful trade while safeguarding national borders. He called on all stakeholders to embrace the ECOWAS vision of moving from an "ECOWAS of States" to an "ECOWAS of People," ensuring that border communities like Aflao directly reap the benefits of regional integration, expanded economic opportunities, and lasting stability.

@Volta Today