The agreements come days after 18 Ghanaian nationals, many of them tomato traders, were killed in an attack in Burkina Faso, prompting urgent calls from traders for greater protection along key cross‑border routes.

Speaking to Channel Africa on Monday, Joseph Paddy, Director of Industrial Relations and Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Union of Traders Association, said that although Ghana and Burkina Faso have long maintained strong trade relations, the recent killings have created fear and uncertainty among small‑scale traders, particularly women who frequently travel between the two countries.

He described the attack as “tragic and unacceptable”, warning that insecurity along the trade corridor threatens both livelihoods and food supply. Paddy noted that Ghana relies heavily on Burkina Faso for tomatoes and other fresh produce, making the safety of traders essential to market stability.

“We are deeply concerned about the safety of our market women who travel across borders. If our women are going to be threatened by these insurgents, it is a worrying situation. If we are not careful, it will reduce trade volumes between Ghana and Burkina Faso,” he said.

Following the attack, the National Tomato Traders Association and the Transporters Association suspended tomato imports from Burkina Faso. Paddy said the suspension has already resulted in shortages and sharp price increases in Ghanaian markets. Transport operators are also refusing to travel across the border due to safety fears.

“As a result of the suspension, tomatoes have become scarce and very expensive. Transport owners are refusing to travel. This is affecting businesses, trade and the economy as a whole,” he said.

Paddy called on both governments and the wider Economic Community of West African States region to strengthen border security, provide clear travel advisories and communicate safety measures to traders. He warned that without urgent action, Ghana risks losing trade volumes and facing sustained shortages of key produce.

“We want to see safety at our borders. Government must come out and tell us the security measures in place. Cross‑border trade is vital for both economies and must be protected,” he said.

–ChannelAfrica–