Trade between Ghana and Togo has slowed down because of political unrest in Togo.
Many traders are avoiding the border due to safety fears, leading to less movement of people and goods. This could mean higher prices for imported products in Ghana.
According to The High Street Journal, the Aflao border, usually busy with traders, has seen much less activity in the past week. An immigration officer said, “The border is not busy as it used to be.”
The problems in Togo, caused by political tensions and protests, have made traders worried about traveling, especially to Lomé, a major trading city where many Ghanaian traders buy items like rice, cooking oil, electronics, cosmetics, and clothes to sell back home.
One trader dealing in electrical appliances said the unrest has caused delays and increased transport costs because drivers ask for more money to cover the risks. This will likely make products more expensive for consumers in Ghana.
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Experts warn that if the unrest continues, Ghana could see higher inflation because many goods sold in its markets come from Togo.
Border towns like Aflao, Denu, and Dzodze are also feeling the impact, as fewer traders mean less business for local transport workers, food sellers, and porters.
Togo is an important trading partner for Ghana, especially since goods from Benin and Nigeria pass through Togo on their way to Ghana.
The current problems risk interrupting this regional trade route. Ghanaian officials are watching the situation carefully, tightening border security but making sure that real travelers can cross smoothly.
Still, traders say that if peace does not return soon, Ghanaian markets will face shortages and higher prices for goods coming from Togo.
On Wednesday morning, only a few vehicles and trucks were seen crossing the border.
Traders are asking ECOWAS and Togolese authorities to bring peace back quickly to protect jobs and businesses on both sides of the border.
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Image Credit: CediRates
