Ghana’s Special Envoy to the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), Larry Gbevlo-Lartey said President John Mahama has successfully resolved the disruptions caused by the export ban on grains and cereals imposed by the military regime in Burkina Faso.
As a sign of commitment, the Burkinabe authorities have agreed to release 23 trucks of beans, which had been earlier seized as part of the blockade. Moreover, more truckloads of other cereals destined for Ghana will be released in the coming days.
Concerns had been raised that Ghana, a significant importer of cereals from its northern neighbour, could face short-term supply disruptions and potential price hikes in local markets due to the ban.
However, after President Mahama toured the AES region, Larry Gbevlo-Lartey expressed confidence that trust between Ghana and its neighbours had been strengthened.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Blessed Sogah on Connect Africa, the Ghanaian diplomat noted: “I think President Mahama has, you know, effectively ironed that out, and further discussions between the stakeholders from the two countries will concretise what needs to be done. I think it’s settled. For instance, there was a situation with 23 trucks and eight more that were seized. The 23 trucks have been released, and they have assured President Mahama that the eight will also be released very soon.”
On Monday, January 29, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) officially confirmed the departure of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, following a six-month grace period.
The statement emphasised the importance of regional solidarity, urging both member and non-member states to recognise national passports and identity cards featuring the ECOWAS logo.
When asked whether President Mahama is seeking to bridge talks between ECOWAS and AES in the context of possible negotiations for their return, Ambassador Gbevlo-Lartey indicated, “The visit of President Mahama has raised trust between Ghana and these countries.”
“And I think that, in that perspective, Ghana has a big role to play. They are very happy that they have at least one president they can trust. That’s why many believe that President John Dramani Mahama should now serve as the bridge.”
Ambassador Gbevlo-Lartey described the exit of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger as a sovereign decision but expressed hope that future engagements could reverse their tough stance and lead to their eventual return to ECOWAS.
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