Ghana, Burkina Faso sign defence pact to operationalise new security framework, protect traders on border routes

Following the government’s pledge to “design and adopt a new security framework aimed at neutralising the scourge of terrorism and violent extremism” after terrorists attacked and killed Ghanaian tomato traders, Ghana and Burkina Faso have signed a Defence Cooperation Agreement to provide security and escort support along cross-border trade corridors.

The Ministry of Defence, in a statement posted on its Facebook page, said the agreement was signed by Ghana’s Acting Minister for Defence, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, and Burkina Faso’s Minister of State and Minister of War and Patriotic Defence, Major General Célestin Simporé.

In February, the Deputy Minister for Defence also announced measures Ghana had taken to strengthen security along major border routes.