President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his administration’s strong commitment to enhancing regional trade between Ghana and Mali by tackling the challenges impeding the smooth transportation of goods. This move is part of Mahama’s broader effort to foster economic growth and strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations.
During a press briefing following his meeting with Mali’s Transitional President, General Assimi Goïta, in Bamako on March 8, President Mahama outlined plans to streamline trade procedures and remove barriers hindering the transportation of goods. The two leaders focused on addressing bureaucratic inefficiencies and enhancing coordination between the transport and customs agencies of both countries.
One of the key issues discussed was improving the working conditions for long-distance truck drivers, who play a vital role in the economies of both nations. These drivers are responsible for transporting essential goods, including foodstuffs, raw materials, and manufactured products, between Ghanaian ports and Mali.
President Mahama acknowledged the various obstacles that truck drivers face, such as complicated customs procedures, delays at border crossings, roadblocks, and unofficial fees imposed along their routes. He emphasized the importance of addressing these challenges to ensure smooth and efficient transit of goods between the two countries.
“A lot of long-distance drivers, both Malian and Ghanaian, transport goods between our ports and Mali. It is crucial that we remove the barriers they face, making it easier for them to do their work without hindrance,” Mahama said.
The two nations have long maintained strong trade relations, with Ghana serving as a key trade route for Malian goods to international markets. President Mahama’s visit to Mali was part of his ‘Good Neighbourliness’ tour, which aims to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties with Ghana’s neighbors. As part of the tour, he is scheduled to visit Niger and Burkina Faso, which recently withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to form the AES bloc.
President Mahama’s visit and commitment to addressing trade and transport issues underscore the importance of regional cooperation in boosting economic growth and regional integration in West Africa.
