Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, MP, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources has underscored the importance of creating awareness and sensitizing residents of border communities to sustain the peaceful and progressive relationship between Ghana and its neighbours.

In a Speech delivered on the floor of Parliament in commemoration of the 2024 African Border Day on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 the Minister noted that border communities bear the brunt of border-related challenges and urged for their involvement in decision-making processes to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.

The Lands Minister highlighted an all-encompassing approach, which involves all stakeholders, must be implemented to ensure that the country continues to experience peace and development along its boundaries. He believes that such an approach will have a greater impact and assist the country in its efforts to build resilient border governance.

Addressing the theme for the commemoration, "Educate an African Fit for the Twenty-First (21st) Century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa," the Minister commended the Ghana Boundary Commission for their outstanding work in promoting and ensuring Ghana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

He stressed that education serves as a powerful tool in promoting inter-cultural dialogue, tolerance, and mutual understanding, and urged for cross-border exchanges, economic cooperation, and joint development projects to overcome barriers and create stronger border communities.

"By empowering our youth to become active agents of change within their communities, we can create a formidable defense against the forces of violence and extremism which often target vulnerable populations, including youth in border communities," he emphasized.

Sompaonline.com/Nana Yaw Boamah