The Ghana Immigration Service (GIS), in partnership with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), has officially opened a renovated border post at Namoo, as part of the “Strengthening the Northern Borders of Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Togo” project.
Funded by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) of the United States, this initiative aims to bolster GIS capabilities in managing and safeguarding migration along the northern frontiers.
The newly upgraded border post features an Arrival and Departure Hall, WASH facilities, offices, server and control rooms, and more.
During the commissioning ceremony, Deputy Minister for the Interior, Hon. Naana Eyiah, representing the Minister for the Interior, underscored the government’s dedication to equipping the GIS, particularly against the backdrop of escalating terrorism threats in the region.
Hon. Eyiah highlighted ongoing IOM interventions at the Mognori and Pulmakom borders, emphasizing the inclusion of solar power systems to ensure uninterrupted operation of the Migration Information and Data System (MIDAS).
This system, she noted, marks a significant advancement in intelligent border management, streamlining processes for travelers and cargo, thus fostering economic activity and reducing wait times.
“This initiative is integral to our broader strategy to enhance border governance,” Hon. Eyiah stated, affirming the government's commitment to creating secure and efficient borders that promote regional integration and economic growth.
Comptroller-General of Immigration, Kwame Asuah Takyi, praised the cooperation between the INL, IOM, and GIS, attributing the successful renovation to this partnership.
He expressed gratitude to the U.S. government for supporting the refurbishment of multiple borders, including Kulungugu, Hamile, Namoo, Pulimakom, Mognori, and Bunkpurugu, all aimed at bolstering national and international security.
Mr. Takyi described the infrastructure improvements as a testament to the collective commitment to secure borders and humane migration conditions.
He urged all stakeholders to adopt measures that ensure orderly and safe migration, pledging that GIS would diligently maintain the new facilities.
IOM's Senior Programme Manager for Ghana, Mr. Nnamsi Iwuora, reiterated the organization’s commitment to enhancing border management and security across five key areas: infrastructure and equipment, digitalization and data analysis, community engagement, crisis preparedness, and regional cooperation.
He emphasized that the project is part of broader efforts to support GIS, including the provision of border patrol equipment such as motorbikes, night vision goggles, solar lamps, tents, and metal detectors.
Upper East Minister, Hon. Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih, lauded the CGI for his proactive leadership and consistent engagement with border personnel.
He also acknowledged the transformational impact of these initiatives on regional security and economic stability.
In a related effort, CGI Kwame Asuah Takyi has embarked on a working tour of the five northern regions, visiting and interacting with border security officers at the Paga Sector and Kandiga Inland Checkpoint.
His tour included courtesy calls on regional dignitaries, such as the Upper East Regional Minister, Hon. Dr. Hafiz Bin Salih, and traditional leaders including Tongo-Raana Naab Kugbil Namalteng and Paga Pio, His Eminence Pe Charles Awia Awampaga II, further solidifying the GIS’s commitment to strengthening border management in Ghana.
Story by: Joshua Joshua Joshua
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