Tumu (Upper West) 5th July ’99
Mr Robert Wavei, Sissala District Chief Executive, on Friday held a meeting with four Burkina Faso Prefects, whose administrative districts share border with the district at Tumu.
The meeting, which was initiated by Mr Wavei, was aimed at affording the five district’s political heads the opportunity to discuss and find solutions to common problems.
The Prefects were Mr Jean Moarie Kaula of Leo, Mr Christopher Poda of Boura, Mr Dennis Sawadoga of Bieha and Mr Paul Yameogo of Sapouy.
Issues discussed included cattle rustling along their common border and activities of Fulani herdsmen, who drive their cattle into Ghana through Burkina Faso and the attendant over-grazing and destruction of the environment by the herdsmen and their cattle.
Mr Wavei stressed the need for Burkina Faso to ensure that all cattle destined for Ghana pass through approved routes so that activities of the herdsmen could be monitored.
The DCE also expressed grave concern about the behaviour of some of the herdsmen, who indulge in lawless acts such as raping women, cutting down trees as fodder for their animals and stealing of farm, produce.
Mr Wavei suggested the establishment of a joint afforestation project along the border to check desertification.
He called for inter-cultural and social activities between the Sissalas and Burkinabes to enhance good relationship.
Mr Koula, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, assured Mr Wavei that the concern of the people of Sissala were well noted and that a follow up meeting would be held in Burkina Faso in August.
He called for the promotion of kola nut and salt trade between Ghana and Burkina Faso.
