The Ghana Boundary Commission has confirmed concerns over deteriorating boundary infrastructure and difficult living conditions in several communities along Ghana’s western border in the Bono Region, following a week-long field assessment.

The exercise, led by Commissioner-General Major General Anthony Ntem, covered key areas within the Dormaa Central and Jaman South Municipalities.

Inspectors found that although some international boundary pillars remain intact, several others have been damaged, displaced, or defaced.

Officials attributed the situation to a combination of human interference and environmental factors, warning that the condition of these markers could pose challenges to boundary demarcation and compromise border security if not addressed promptly.

The Commission noted that while Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire are currently undertaking a joint boundary reaffirmation exercise, the affected municipalities have yet to benefit from the ongoing works.

Authorities expect that the reconstruction of damaged pillars in these areas will be addressed under the third phase of the programme.

Beyond infrastructure concerns, the team also highlighted the socio-economic difficulties facing residents in border communities.

A human security assessment revealed limited access to essential services, underscoring the development challenges confronting people living along the frontier.

During the exercise, the Commission engaged regional authorities, including municipal leaders and security councils, as well as traditional rulers and residents in communities such as Gonokrom, Kofi Badukrom, Drobo, Atuna and Kwameprakrom. Many residents expressed a strong desire for accelerated development to improve living conditions.

The Commission concluded that safeguarding Ghana’s borders requires not only the maintenance of physical boundary markers but also sustained investment in border communities, noting that infrastructure, security and livelihoods are closely interconnected in ensuring long-term national stability.