As part of his commitment to championing inclusive economic growth and grassroots empowerment, Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah Atokple has received a delegation from the National Cross Border Women Traders Association, led by the National Coordinator, Oscar Akaba, in his office.
The delegation which included key leaders: Mama Setrakor, Madam Dzidzorgbe Rebecca Amuzu, Madam Senanu, and Mrs. Gloria Sakyi, congratulated Chief Tanko on his new role as a Member of the Council of State representing the Volta Region. Their visit focused on strengthening women-led cross-border trade activities, especially through the Volta Region, which hosts 57 entry points, 12 of which are officially approved.
The team presented a clear vision of formalizing border trade for women through cooperative structures, digital membership registration, and infrastructure development, yet challenges exist.
Some of these key challenges highlighted included harassment at border points, lack of access to financial support, weak database systems, limited policy inclusion for women, poor infrastructure, undue delay of goods, and unapproved tariffs at major points.
As someone who grew up witnessing cross-border trade struggles firsthand, Mr. Atokple resonated deeply with their concerns and assured them of his full commitment to advocating for improved infrastructure, security, and trade facilitation, particularly for women using the approved Volta routes.
The engagement reinforces “my resolve to make the Volta Region a model for inclusive trade development. With coordinated support, we can ensure that cross-border women traders are empowered, protected, and fully integrated into Ghana’s formal trade economy to expand revenue net for the Republic of Ghana”, he said. .
