Volta Minister calls for greater public awareness of Ecowas protocols
The Volta Regional Minister, Mr James Gunu, has called for increased public education on the protocols of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to enable citizens to take full advantage of opportunities in trade, employment and free movement across member states.
He made the call at the ECOWAS National Citizens Engagement and Public Sensitisation Campaign held in Aflao, under the theme, “Bringing ECOWAS Closer to the Citizens: Promoting Awareness, Participation and Opportunities for Regional Integration.”
Mr Gunu said regional integration would be more meaningful if citizens understood their rights, responsibilities and the opportunities available to them under ECOWAS agreements.
He described Aflao as an important gateway for trade, travel and cultural exchange between Ghana and neighbouring countries, stressing the need for ECOWAS policies to deliver practical benefits, particularly to people living in border communities.
The Minister highlighted the importance of free movement, cross-border trade, employment opportunities and security cooperation in promoting economic development and strengthening relations among member states.
He commended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the ECOWAS Office for organising the campaign to improve public understanding of regional integration.
The Coordinating Director for Multilateral and International Organisations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Francis Danti Kotia, urged travellers to carry valid travel documents and comply with the laws of countries they visit.
He also cautioned citizens against smuggling and other transnational crimes, stressing the importance of responsible conduct in ensuring safe and lawful movement across borders.
Faustina Naa Ayele Johnson, ISD
