A fraud prevention and security expert, Richard Kumadoe, has called on authorities and stakeholders to adopt new trade and agricultural strategies to protect Ghanaian traders amid reported terror attacks affecting cross-border commerce in the sub-region.
In a social media post reacting to the situation, Mr. Kumadoe proposed the establishment of centralized markets in northern Ghana to reduce the exposure of traders to security risks.
He suggested that a major hub be created in Bolgatanga (Bolga), with tomatoes transported from Burkina Faso through Bawku and Paga.
“Create a centralised market at Bolga, bring in the tomatoes from Burkina Faso through Bawku and Paga and be prepared to pay few additional few coins for transportation cost,” he wrote.
Mr. Kumadoe further proposed a second trading hub in Tamale, where tomatoes and onions could be routed through Yendi.
“Set up another centralised market at Tamale and bring in the tomatoes and onions from Burkina Faso through Yendi,” he added.
Beyond trade logistics, the security consultant stressed the need to strengthen local agricultural production as a long-term solution to insecurity along trade routes.
According to him, farmers in northern Ghana should be supported to cultivate tomatoes and onions using improved seeds from neighbouring countries.
“Empower a Ghanaian farmer to set up tomatoes and onion farm at Tamale and endeavour to plant the tomato and onion seeds from Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger and the travel risk effects will be drastically minimised to negligible levels,” he stated.
The countries he referenced include Mali and Niger, which are major producers of vegetables in the region.
Richard Kumadoe also cautioned traders and transporters to take security issues seriously when travelling across borders.
“Travellers must also take travel risk assessment outcomes very seriously, and liaise with Embassy staff for travel guidance and for security escort,” he advised.
